Chinese automaker Jetour has made a significant leap in the UAE’s used car market, emerging as one of the top four brands in the country, according to AutoData Middle East’s latest H1 2025 Used Car Market Report.
The report shows Jetour’s sales in the UAE surged by 163.9% in the first half of the year, with its T2 model recording a growth of over 212%.
The brand’s performance reflects the broader rise of Chinese manufacturers across the region, driven by increased consumer confidence and demand for SUV models.
Strong Chinese growth
Jetour’s gains were mirrored by other Chinese brands. Geely grew 39.1% and MG rose 21.5% in the UAE. In Saudi Arabia, Jetour also saw a 52.2% increase, while Haval was up by 37.3%, highlighting the strong market preference for SUV-focused lineups.
More than 70% of buyers in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia now express confidence in Chinese brands. According to AutoData, this is reflected in a 60% quarter-on-quarter rise in searches for Chinese vehicles, especially 2022 models priced around Dhs 70,000.
EV market expands
Electric vehicles continued to gain traction in the UAE, where EV sales grew 18.6% in the first six months of 2025. EVs now represent 7% of new vehicle registrations, out of a total 157,000 new vehicles sold during this period — an 11% year-on-year increase.
In Saudi Arabia, EV sales rose 33.5%, reaching a 3% market share. Growth in the kingdom was led by Lucid and Lexus, and aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 strategy.
Consumer trends shift
The report highlights differing consumer behaviours between the UAE and Saudi markets. In the UAE, buyers are focused on value and image, mostly seeking used vehicles between Dhs 10,000 and Dhs 60,000, particularly older models from 2015 to 2020 with a record of reliability.
In contrast, Saudi consumers prioritise affordability and newer models, with demand concentrated in the SAR 10,000–40,000 range and a preference for vehicles from 2021 to 2023.
Supply pressure impacts prices
The UAE used car market is facing increased pressure from an influx of Chinese imports, partly due to shifting global trade routes. This has led to longer average selling times — up to 42.15 days in the UAE and 30.06 days in Saudi Arabia as of July, compared to 14.06 and 13.35 days in April, when holiday promotions boosted sales.
As a result, dealers are turning to discounts and financing offers to maintain sales momentum. SUVs and luxury vehicles continue to hold value, while prices for sedans and higher-volume models are coming under pressure.
“Our H1 2025 report clearly shows that the Middle East’s used car market is more dynamic and complex than ever. The rise of Chinese brands and EVs, coupled with evolving consumer preferences, means that sellers and buyers must be more strategic. Data-driven insights are no longer a luxury, but a necessity for navigating this fast-paced market,” said Sebastian Fuchs, Managing Director of AutoData Middle East.
AutoData’s Vehicle Report platform is now used by over 42,000 users and more than 40 partner organisations across the region. According to the company, 84% of buyers report no issues after purchase, pointing to growing reliance on data tools to guide used car decisions.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
