People in the United Arab Emirates would have easy access to Apple products in the country with the firm opening its online retail store with much fanfare. The move came amid retail sector growing by leaps and bounces in the Gulf region despite a number of challenges in the way.

The company would offer Apple iPad, iPhone or computer with a credit card through online transaction. Moreover, products would be cheap as compared to prices at which they are sold by retails and delivered in exactly three days to customer's doorsteps. iPad 2, iPhone 4 and Macbook Pro would be available online at Dh2,099, Dh2,299 and Dh6,499 respectively.

Matthew Reed, a senior analyst for the Middle East and Africa at Informa Telecoms & Media expressed that the move would have far reaching impact in the price sensitive market. He went on to add, "Despite the fact that e- commerce has not taken off in the UAE, it's quite a price-sensitive market and people want a bargain. The lower prices will have quite an effect. Store-based retailers will probably respond by cutting their prices."