Leapmotor: A New Chinese Wave Making Its Way Into UAE Streets

In recent years, the presence of Chinese cars has accelerated across GCC markets, especially in the UAE, where the country has witnessed a remarkable rise in brands arriving from the Far East. While GCC buyers have grown accustomed to familiar names like MGUAE MGKSA MGOman MGQatar MGBahrain MGEgypt MGKuwait MG, BYDEgypt BYDUAE BYDKSA BYDOman BYDBahrain BYDQatar BYDKuwait BYD, and ChanganBahrain ChanganEgypt ChanganKSA ChanganKuwait ChanganOman ChanganQatar ChanganUAE Changan, a new player is preparing to enter the scene with force: Leapmotor.

The brand presents itself as a modern electric experience aimed at customers seeking stronger value and smarter technologies, supported by the UAE’s thriving EV infrastructure and the rising interest among local users in smart connectivity and efficient driving.

The UAE Welcomes a New Generation of Chinese Brands

Chinese automakers continue expanding across regional markets, reshaping the traditional competitive landscape. The UAE became in 2025 the world’s largest destination for Chinese car exports, with annual growth surpassing 55%. This major influx opens the door for new names that go beyond the conventional players, relying on advanced technology and attractive pricing.

The strength of these new generation Chinese brands comes from several key factors, including:

• An advanced EV charging network across all Emirates.

• The presence of specialized dealers and importers of Chinese vehicles.

• Growing interest among UAE buyers in cars equipped with large screens and intelligent driving systems.

• Reduced ownership cost compared to Japanese, Korean, and European brands.

• Fast availability of spare parts and diverse maintenance options.

This ideal environment has given young electric brands a real opportunity to grow, and Leapmotor has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of this expanding market.

Leapmotor… A New Player Redefining the Future of Electric Vehicles

Leapmotor was founded in 2015 in the Chinese city of Hangzhou, focusing from day one on fully electric vehicles and extended range models (E-REV). Although the company officially entered the market in 2019, it quickly attracted attention within China before strengthening its position through a major partnership with Stellantis, the global group that owns well known brands such as Peugeot, Jeep, and Alfa Romeo.

Leapmotor relies on a diverse lineup of models that are gradually finding their way into the region, including:

• Leapmotor T03: A compact electric hatchback ideal for daily city driving.

• Leapmotor C01: An electric sedan offering spacious interiors and advanced features.

• Leapmotor C11UAE Leapmotor C11: A family oriented crossover with smart technologies and an impressive driving range.

• Leapmotor C10 and C16: Larger SUVs aimed at families and designed to deliver a more advanced driving experience.

• OTA software updates to ensure continuous system improvements.

• Multiple battery options tailored for users who prioritize long range driving.

The company is preparing to expand its international presence through a joint venture with Stellantis aimed at exporting and distributing its vehicles across Europe and the Middle East. Meanwhile, the brand’s footprint has already begun to appear in the UAE through import offers and the availability of genuine spare parts for models such as the C11, C01, and T03.

Will Leapmotor Become a Standout Brand on UAE Roads?

The path appears clear for Leapmotor to achieve wide expansion in the UAE, especially as the market continues to shift toward affordable electric vehicles that offer:

• Smart driving technologies.

• Constant internet connectivity.

• Large screens and modern design elements.

• Pricing closer to traditional gasoline cars but with higher equipment levels.

• Lower operating costs over the long term.

With more consumers seeking an advanced electric alternative without paying premium prices, Leapmotor may quickly become a familiar name across the UAE’s streets.