Apple has temporarily closed its corporate offices and five Apple Store locations in the United Arab Emirates following a significant escalation in Middle East conflict over the weekend. The closures affect stores in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain, including the flagship Apple Dubai Mall and Apple Al Maryah Island locations.

Update: As of March 4, closures now extend through Friday with re-opening set for Saturday, March 7. The temporary move adheres to new guidance from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation asking that "private sector establishments in the country take the necessary measures to avoid the presence of workers in open areas."

This safety measure is recommended to apply for a period of three days, from Sunday, March 1, through Tuesday, March 3, though the timeline remains subject to change given the volatility of the situation. The affected stores include Apple Al Maryah Island, Apple Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi, Apple Dubai Mall, Apple Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, and Apple Al Jimi Mall in Al Ain.