Chinese Cars Claim 33% Market Share in the UAE: Cartea Sales Analysis

Chinese Cars Now Hold 33% of the UAE Car Market

According to Cartea's sales data for May, Chinese automotive brands have achieved a remarkable 33.1% year-to-date market share in the UAE, up from 21.3% in the same month last year. This dramatic growth positions Chinese brands as a dominant force in one of the Middle East's most competitive car markets.

Chinese Brand Sales Breakdown in the UAE

The total UAE new car market recorded 16,534 units in May. Chinese brands collectively accounted for approximately 5,473 units. Jetour leads with 1,547 units (28% of Chinese brand sales), followed by BYD with 919 units (16.4%), MG with 841 units (14.7%), Geely with 327 units (6.0%), and Changan with approximately 192 units (3.5%). Other Chinese brands including Haval, Hongqi, Exeed, Chery, and JAC contributed the remaining share.

Jetour: The Undisputed Chinese Leader

Jetour's 1,547 units placed it fourth overall in the UAE brand rankings. With three models in the top 30 — the T2 (756 units, first overall), Dashing (276 units, eighth), and X70 Plus (248 units, ninth) — Jetour has demonstrated that Chinese brands can compete across multiple segments simultaneously.

BYD: Fastest-Growing Mainstream Brand

BYD recorded 919 units with 37.7% year-over-year growth. The BYD Song Plus sold 221 units (+125.5% YoY) and the BYD Atto 3 recorded 197 units. BYD's success reflects the growing demand for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the Emirates.

Market Share by Origin

Japanese brands hold 48.8%, Chinese brands 33.1%, European brands 10.2%, and American brands 8.0%. If current trends continue, Chinese brands could challenge Japanese dominance within 12 to 18 months.

Conclusion

Chinese cars have transformed from budget alternatives into mainstream choices. With a 33% market share, world-class features, and competitive pricing, Chinese brands are reshaping the UAE automotive landscape.