Apple previewed its “dramatic” new Al Maryah Island store in Abu Dhabi Thursday, showcasing design elements never seen before at Apple stores, as well as special programs.
The retail location opens Friday at 5 p.m. United Arab Emirates time.
Apple Al Maryah Island: new design elements and special programs
The new location, called Apple Al Maryah Island, is elevated above steps of cascading water in the middle of Abu Dhabi’s financial district. The store creates a direct connection from The Galleria Al Maryah Island to the water’s edge, with shoreline views.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to open the stunning Apple Al Maryah Island this Friday,” said Deirdre O’Brien. She’s Apple’s senior vice president of Retail + People. “Our talented team is ready to welcome and delight customers from this vibrant community to our newest location in the Emirates.”
Photo: Apple
Fresh design elements
Apple Al Maryah Island introduces several design elements reflective of its surroundings.
From the promenade, two ramps paved with Absolute Black granite stone cut through water. They continue inside the store, blurring the barrier between inside and out. It’s the first use of that stone at any Apple Store.
The store also features a golden carbon fiber roof locally sourced in the UAE. Visitors entering from The Galleria Al Maryah Island Mall walk through a mirrored stainless steel portal. Jets of water cascade over exterior glass walls. A 72-foot-long mirrored foil ceiling creates a kaleidoscopic effect, with water falling down the walls and reflections appearing above.
Photo: Apple
Once inside, guests see panoramic views of Abu Dhabi’s skyline through the windows. The ceiling is made of stretched gold fabric. The glass walls bring in the natural light, with ficus trees adding greenery. A radiant floor system combines with displacement ventilation to help cool the building.
Today at Apple sessions
Apple Al Maryah Island will debut three new Today at Apple sessions drawing inspiration from the creative culture of Abu Dhabi:
- Photo Walk: Fluidity and Motion with iPhone 13 Pro, co-created with local photographer Mohamed Somji.
- Music Walk: Liquid Soundscapes with GarageBand
- Art Walk: Drawing Creativity Within Session Guide
And on March 6, photographer Mohamed Somji will lead a co-created Photo Walk, sharing his personal techniques.
Photo: Apple
Future Today at Apple sessions hosted in the Forum at Apple Al Maryah Island will invite local musicians, artists, developers, entrepreneurs and educators, Apple said. Participants can register for sessions.
Visitors can also access an exclusive and specially curated Apple Music playlist, featuring local United Arab Emirates artists.
The new store’s multicultural team of more than 80 members represent 28 nationalities and collectively speak over 30 languages, including Arabic, French, Hindi, Tagalog and others.
The store will welcome its first visitors on Friday at 5 p.m. local time, by appointment only on opening day.
Photo: Apple
