Affiliate Disclosure
If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Read our ethics policy.

Apple's Angela Ahrendts confirms store in Dubai Mall, highlights teaser artwork

Apple on Tuesday confirmed plans for a Dubai Mall outlet in the United Arab Emirates, teasing the opening with custom artwork on the shop's construction facade.

A photo of the facade was shared on Twitter by Apple retail head Angela Ahrendts, who noted that the art is "celebrating local artists and entrepreneurs." A more detailed glimpse can be seen on a new store page.

A grand opening has yet to be announced, but Apple typically only puts up custom facades just a few weeks prior to launch. When it's ready, the store should span two floors in the mall and offer views of the Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa, the latter being the tallest building on Earth.

The shop will also have unusually long hours, running from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. most days, and until midnight on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday — matching those of the mall, which caters to rich locals, tourists, and other travelers.

Apple has two other outlets in the region — Mall of the Emirates, also in Dubai, and Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi.

Apple has sometimes faced accusations of hypocrisy for operating in countries like the U.A.E. At home in the U.S., the company and CEO Tim Cook have actively supported LGBT rights, often taking an open political stand. In places like the U.A.E., however, it has remained quiet and continued to do business, despite severe penalties for LGBT activity.