Dubai, UAE – AutoData Middle East, a subsidiary of World Automotive Group (WAG) and a leading provider of automotive data solutions in the UAE, has unveiled its 2024 Used Car Market Report. This annual publication offers valuable insights into the evolving automotive markets of the UAE and Saudi Arabia. To promote transparency, AutoData Middle East also runs VehicleReport.me, a platform that provides in-depth vehicle histories, valuations, damage reports, and recall information by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Since its relaunch in May 2024, the platform has attracted more than 21,000 users, reinforcing its market presence.
Automakers Expanding in the UAE and KSA The automotive sector is rapidly transforming, with the UAE recording 318,981 vehicle registrations in 2024—a 15.7% rise following a 27.2% increase in 2023. Saudi Arabia also surpassed a significant milestone, registering over 1 million vehicles for the first time, with Toyota leading sales at 225,743 units. Chinese automakers continue to expand their market share in both countries. For instance, Jetour captured 3% of the UAE market, with its T2 model securing 8th place and a 1.7% market share. In Saudi Arabia, Jetour achieved 9,569 unit sales, alongside strong performances from Changan, Geely, and SAIC Motors. Chinese brands are reshaping market dynamics, with vehicle inquiries increasing by 77% in late 2024, signaling a stronger presence in the used car market.
Rising Demand for GCC-Spec Vehicles and Shifting Consumer Preferences Data from VehicleReport.me shows that 86% of users are buyers, with 75% preferring GCC-spec vehicles designed for the region’s climate and conditions. Popular models include the Toyota Camry, Corolla, Nissan Patrol, and Altima. Sellers are still adapting to independent pricing tools to determine vehicle values, while buyers prioritize car history checks. Regarding purchasing behavior, 83% of buyers in the UAE and KSA start their car-buying journey on dealership websites, emphasizing the importance of a robust online presence. UAE car buyers, in particular, visit dealerships an average of 3.9 times before making a decision—the highest globally. Chinese brands continue to gain traction in the used car market, with inquiries up 77% between September and December 2024, compared to the prior months. Brands like MG, Jetour, Geely, GAC, and Changan are leading in consumer interest, reflecting a shift toward more competitively priced and feature-rich alternatives.
Market Trends AutoData Middle East
Market Trends and Pricing Shifts Listings for used cars on DubiCars show a growing demand for Chinese models, with listings rising by 56% in 2024, while non-Chinese brand listings declined by 5%. The hybrid vehicle segment also saw a 44% increase in listings, while electric vehicle listings grew modestly by 2%, indicating a preference for fuel-efficient options over fully electric vehicles. SUVs remain dominant in the market, with models like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and Jetour SUVs retaining more than 80% of their value after three years.
Electrification and the Future of Mobility The UAE government is accelerating efforts to increase electric vehicle (EV) adoption, with a goal of having 50% of total vehicle sales be EVs by 2050. Dubai plans to boost its EV numbers to 42,000 by 2030, a sixfold increase from current levels. EV charging infrastructure is also expanding, supported by government incentives and advancements in ultra-fast charging technology. The UAE is leading the way in autonomous mobility, with 60% of respondents supporting the adoption of self-driving vehicles. Initiatives like Masdar City’s autonomous vehicle trials and Dubai’s aim for 25% of trips to be driverless by 2030 are helping shape the region’s future in smart mobility.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Transformation The 2024 UAE & KSA Used Car Market Report highlights the region’s shift toward enhanced consumer confidence and diverse industry strategies in the automotive sector. With increasing demand for transparency in vehicle history, the rise of Chinese car brands, and the growing adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles, the region’s automotive market is set for continued evolution.
For more information, visit the 2024 UAE & KSA Used Car Market Report at vehiclereport.me/market_report_2024. To learn more about buying and selling vehicles confidently, visit AutoData Middle East’s Vehicle Report platform at www.vehiclereport.me.
