The automotive industry in the GCC, particularly in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia (KSA), is seeing rapid growth. This growth is fueled by rising population numbers, infrastructure projects, changes in sustainability, and shifting customer preferences.
For companies aiming to enter or expand in the region, conducting comprehensive automotive market research in the UAE & KSA is not just an advantage — it is essential. Whether you are a car manufacturer, parts supplier, dealership, or aftermarket service provider, a tailored market research study provides the clarity you need to make informed decisions.
Why UAE & KSA Are the Hotspots for Automotive Market Research
At Accurate Middle East, based in Dubai with a presence in Riyadh, we help global and regional businesses navigate these markets through professional automotive industry market research, feasibility studies, and market entry strategy development.
In this article, we explore:
- The current state and future trends of the automotive industry in the UAE & KSA
- What’s included in a professional automotive market research
- Why companies should order this service before entering the GCC automotive market
- Our methodology and examples of past client cases
- Average costs and what deliverables you can expect
Automotive Market Size and Trends in UAE & KSA
Market Size & Growth
- UAE Automotive Market Size: Estimated at over USD 9 billion in 2023, with strong growth in luxury vehicles, SUVs, and EVs.
- KSA Automotive Market Size: The largest in the GCC, valued at USD 13 billion, supported by Vision 2030 policies to localize manufacturing and reduce import dependence.
- Both markets are expected to grow with a CAGR of 4-5% through 2028, fueled by:
- Urbanization and the rising middle class
- Government incentives for green mobility and electric vehicles
- Expansion of infrastructure projects in KSA
Key Trends
- Surge in Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption, especially in the UAE
- Saudi Arabia’s push for local production — example: Lucid Motors plant in KSA
- Growth in the automotive aftermarket, including maintenance, spare parts, and accessories
- Rising demand for connected and intelligent vehicles
- Increase in used car sales, particularly in Dubai and Riyadh
If you are considering entering these markets, an up-to-date automotive market research in the UAE & KSA will help you understand these trends in-depth.
Market Segments and Opportunities
By Vehicle Type
- Passenger Vehicles: Sedans, SUVs, luxury cars
- Commercial Vehicles: Trucks, buses, vans (significant for KSA’s industrial and logistics sectors)
- Electric & Hybrid Vehicles
By Industry and Consumer Segments
- Fleet Operators: Taxis, ride-hailing (e.g., Careem, Uber fleets)
- Government & Infrastructure Projects: Large buyers in KSA Vision 2030 megaprojects
- Retail Consumers: Young urban professionals, affluent families, expats
Automotive Aftermarket
- Spare Parts and Accessories
- Maintenance and Repair Services
- Car customization trends
Import vs. Production: UAE & KSA The UAE automotive market mainly relies on imports, with vehicles coming from Japan, Germany, the USA, and more recently, China. KSA is putting significant resources into local production, offering incentives to draw in global manufacturers.
Knowing the import and export rules, tariffs, and localization incentives is essential for our market research in the UAE and KSA.
Regulatory Environment and Compliance
Entering the GCC automotive market requires navigating a complex regulatory landscape:
- UAE: Compliance with Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) for vehicle standards
- KSA: Regulations from the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) and incentives under the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC)
- EV-specific regulations, charging infrastructure standards, and government incentives
- Import licensing and dealership laws
Our studies include a regulatory compliance section outlining:
- What certifications are needed
- Approval processes and estimated timelines
- Legal structures for foreign manufacturers and dealerships
B2B Automotive Procurement and Business Models
Understanding how automotive products are purchased in the UAE and KSA is critical:
- Dealership Models: Exclusive distributorships vs. multi-brand retailers
- Fleet Sales: Direct contracts with ride-hailing services or logistics companies
- Government Tenders: Especially relevant in KSA for infrastructure projects
- Aftermarket Distribution: Partnerships with parts retailers, garages, service chains
We provide insights into business models that succeed, how buyers make decisions, and what sales channels are most effective.
What Does Automotive Market Research UAE & KSA Include?
When you order automotive market research from Accurate Middle East, your study will include:
- Market Size & Growth Forecast
- Segmentation by Product, Consumer Type, and Industry
- Competitive Analysis: Key players, pricing, market share
- Import vs. Production Dynamics
- Regulatory & Compliance Requirements
- Buyer Behavior & Procurement Models
- Market Entry Strategy Recommendations
- Financial Feasibility Model: Revenue projections, cost analysis, break-even point
- SWOT Analysis
- Customized Recommendations
You will receive:
- A comprehensive PDF report with visual summaries
- A detailed, editable financial model in Excel
- Optional investor-ready presentation deck
We are happy to provide a sample report or example of previous automotive studies upon request.
Our Research Methodology When you work with us, the steps are:
- Briefing and Needs Assessment: We will understand your goals, product, and target markets.
- Proposal and Scope Definition: We will outline clear deliverables, timeline, and budget. Data Collection: Primary Research: This includes expert interviews, buyer consultations, and surveys when needed. c.Secondary Research: We will use market databases, government sources, and industry reports.
- Data Collection and Financial Modeling
- Development of Final Report & Recommendations
- Presentation & Optional Advisory Session
Our process ensures every client receives a bespoke, actionable market study.
Example Case Study
A European EV parts manufacturer approached us to look into the UAE and Saudi markets. They were uncertain about demand levels, buyer preferences, and regulatory approvals.
Our market research showed:
A significant increase in EV sales in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Clear opportunities in KSA because of government-supported EV initiatives. Key partnerships needed with fleet operators for bulk sales. We provided them with: A market entry plan. A financial feasibility study. A regulatory compliance checklist. They are now finalizing partnerships with a regional distributor based on insights from our research.
Why Companies Need Automotive Market Research in UAE & KSA
Without proper market research, companies risk:
- Misjudging demand
- Pricing incorrectly
- Failing regulatory compliance
- Missing key sales channels or partners
A tailored automotive market research in the UAE and KSA:
- Minimizes risks
- Supports investor pitches
- Accelerates market entry
- Increases your chances of success
Cost of Automotive Market Research in UAE & KSA
The cost of market research depends on:
- Depth of research: secondary only vs. primary + secondary
- Complexity of the product/market
- Number of markets (UAE, KSA, or both)
Typical price range:
- From AED 18,000 for focused secondary research
- Up to AED 45,000+ for complete feasibility study with primary interviews, financial modeling, and regulatory mapping
We provide a custom quote after an initial consultation to align with your needs.
Why Choose Accurate Middle East
✅ 20+ years of combined experience in market research and business consulting
✅ Strong presence in UAE, KSA, and GCC markets
✅ Expertise across automotive, manufacturing, tech, green tech, and healthcare
✅ Transparent pricing and customized approach
✅ Proven track record with global clients entering the region
We don’t just deliver reports — we provide market intelligence that drives strategy.
Ready to Explore the Automotive Market in the GCC? If you are planning to launch, expand, or invest in the automotive industry in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, or the GCC, we can help you with market research tailored to your needs. Contact us today to order your customized study, request an example report, or discuss your business goals with our consultants.
Let data and expert insights drive your success in the Gulf automotive market.
For inquiries, consultations, or tailored proposals, contact us directly via WhatsApp at or call us in the UAE at +971 50 599 5603. You can request a callback or free consultation by clicking the button below. If you’re interested in market research services, simply fill in our brief form here — and receive a customized proposal within 24 hours. We’re here to support your business ambitions across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the GCC.
