AutoData Middle East, a leading authority in automotive data solutions, has officially released its highly anticipated Used Car Market Report for the first half of 2025. This comprehensive report delves deeply into the trends, performance, and dynamics of the used car markets across both the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Marking its fourth edition, the report provides valuable analysis and data covering a pivotal six-month period during which the regional automotive sector experienced significant transformations.
Key highlights include the rapid rise and growing influence of Chinese automotive brands in the used car segment, reflecting shifting consumer trust and market preferences. Additionally, the report underscores the accelerated adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which continues to reshape the market landscape as environmental concerns and government initiatives encourage greener mobility solutions. Furthermore, evolving consumer behaviors and expectations have played a crucial role in redefining buying patterns, particularly within the used car marketplace. Collectively, these factors indicate a dynamic and fast-evolving automotive market in the Middle East region, with important implications for dealers, buyers, and policymakers alike.
Chinese Momentum and Growing Demand for SUVs
Chinese automakers have significantly strengthened their presence in the UAE market, with Jetour experiencing a remarkable growth of 163.9%, propelling it into the top four most popular brands. Its T2 model alone surged by an impressive 212.2%. Other Chinese brands also made notable advances, with Geely growing by 39.1% and MG by 21.5%. Similarly, in Saudi Arabia, Jetour’s sales rose by 52.2%, while Haval increased by 37.3%, both brands benefiting substantially from their focus on SUVs, which remain highly favored by consumers. Confidence in Chinese brands is on the rise, with over 70% of buyers in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia expressing trust in purchasing these vehicles. This confidence is reflected in the substantial 60% increase in Vehicle Report inquiries for Chinese car models from the previous quarter, particularly for 2022 models priced around AED 70,000, highlighting the strong influence Chinese manufacturers now have on consumer preferences.
Accelerated Adoption of Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicle (EV) sales continue to gain momentum throughout the Middle East. In the UAE, EV sales increased by 18.6% during the first half of 2025, elevating EVs to represent 7% of new vehicle registrations out of approximately 157,000 new vehicles sold in that period. This marks an 11% year-on-year growth. Saudi Arabia saw an even more pronounced rise, with EV sales climbing by 33.5%, accounting for about 3% of the market share. This growth has been driven by key brands such as Lucid and Lexus and is supported by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which promotes the expansion of electric mobility as part of its sustainability goals.
Changing Consumer Behaviour and Brand Preferences
The report highlights distinct consumer behaviours in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In the UAE, buyers tend to prioritize value and brand image, favoring vehicles priced between AED 10,000 and 60,000. There is also a strong preference for older but reliable models from 2015 to 2020, reflecting consumers’ emphasis on proven performance and reputation. Conversely, in Saudi Arabia, affordability remains the top concern. Most buyers look for vehicles within the SAR 10,000 to 40,000 price range, with a clear preference for newer used cars, typically from 2021 to 2023. These differences underscore how economic and cultural factors influence purchasing decisions in the two markets.
Market Challenges Amid Global Trade Shifts
The UAE market is currently facing increased pressure due to a surge in used Chinese vehicles entering the market, largely a result of changing trade relations with the United States. This influx has led to a higher supply of used cars and a notable rise in the average time it takes to sell vehicles online. By July 2025, the average days to sell a car online had increased to 42.15 days in the UAE and 30.06 days in Saudi Arabia, compared to just 14.06 and 13.35 days respectively in April, when Ramadan and Eid promotions helped speed up sales. To stay competitive under these conditions, dealers are increasingly offering discounts and financing options. While SUVs and luxury vehicles have maintained their value, sedans and mass-market cars are experiencing greater price pressures.
Insights from AutoData Middle East
Sebastian Fuchs, Managing Director of AutoData Middle East, commented on the report: “Our H1 2025 report clearly shows that the used car market in the Middle East is becoming more dynamic and complex than ever before. The rapid growth of Chinese brands and electric vehicles, combined with shifting consumer preferences, means that both sellers and buyers must adopt more strategic approaches. Utilizing data-driven insights is no longer optional but essential for successfully navigating this fast-evolving market.”
“AutoData Middle East continues to lead in promoting transparency within the regional automotive market. Its Vehicle Report platform now serves over 42,000 users and partners with more than 40 major organizations. Daily usage of the platform has tripled, and 84% of buyers report having no issues post-purchase, demonstrating the platform’s vital role in building consumer confidence and enabling smarter, safer car-buying decisions”.
