Cairo, Egypt – Image Credit: Zienauto/Wikimedia
Apple is considering expanding its global network of retail stores into Egypt, following an official invitation from the country’s foreign trade minister.
The introduction of an Apple Store in Egypt would significantly indicate the company’s intent to boost sales in the region. If negotiations proceed positively, the first retail location could be established in the country.
Omar El-Rifai, Apple’s Director of Government Affairs for the Middle East and Pakistan, met with Egyptian Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Hassan El-Khatib, on June 2, as reported by Egyptian Streets. Their discussion focused on Apple’s potential expansion in Egypt.
During this meeting, El-Khatib extended an invitation for Apple to open a local store, which would mark the company’s debut in Egypt if accepted.
However, transitioning from an invitation to an operational store involves significant challenges, such as finding a suitable location, constructing the store, and obtaining necessary permits, a process that often spans several years.
If realized, the new store would contribute to Apple’s existing network of over 500 locations across 26 countries.
Ongoing Development
The meeting also covered future investment opportunities aimed at establishing Egypt as a regional hub for technology and innovation.
Apple’s current operations, including advanced call centers and training facilities, were highlighted by the minister as among the best in the region.
Apple is committed to creating high-quality job opportunities through the enhancement of its facilities, with the ministry pledging support for Apple’s initiatives in the country.
Despite potential developments, progress in Egypt has been relatively subdued, overshadowed by greater attention on China, India, and the United States. While Apple has innovation hubs and support teams worldwide, they typically receive less focus than the more prominent activities in those three nations.