What UAE Car Buyers Now Look for First in a Four-Wheeler May Surprise You

The car market in the United Arab Emirates is witnessing a noticeable shift in buyers’ priorities, where flashy appearances or engine power are no longer the decisive factors when making a purchase decision. A recent study commissioned by Volkswagen Abu Dhabi and conducted by YouGov on over a thousand UAE residents revealed a fundamental change in the criteria for choosing the ideal car in 2025. Today, the UAE consumer is more aware and pragmatic, focusing on long-term value, economic efficiency, and environmental impact, moving beyond traditional luxury concepts.

Warranty and Maintenance Costs: The Top Priority

The survey results showed that 40% of buyers consider a strong warranty and low maintenance costs as the most influential factors in building brand trust. This is attributed to the lifestyle in the UAE, where long distances, extreme summer heat, and the importance of resale value make considering long-term ownership costs essential. Jordan Walker, General Manager of Volkswagen Abu Dhabi, said, “This shows that buyers are not just looking at the purchase price but calculating the cost of owning and maintaining the car over the long term – which makes perfect sense.”

Environmental Sustainability and Fuel Efficiency

Environmental sustainability and fuel efficiency rank second in buyers’ concerns at 34%, amid rising fuel prices and growing environmental awareness in UAE society. Consumers are no longer just looking for an economical car but are interested in what the brand offers in terms of eco-friendly solutions, especially with the expanding options of hybrid and electric vehicles in the local market, alongside government incentives encouraging the acquisition of these vehicles.

Advanced Technology: A Necessity, Not a Luxury

33% of participants indicated that having advanced technologies and smart systems in the car has become one of the most important factors influencing their purchase decision. Driver assistance systems and smartphone integration are no longer mere add-ons but necessities in light of rapid technological progress and changing consumer expectations.

After-Sales Service and Resale Value

Quality after-sales service ranked fourth at 32%, followed by resale value at 31%. This reflects buyers’ desire for peace of mind throughout the ownership period and assurance of good value when selling the car in the future.

Generational Differences in Priorities

The study revealed a clear gap between generations in car selection criteria. Drivers over 45 years old focus heavily on practical aspects, with nearly half choosing warranty and maintenance as the top factor. In contrast, younger buyers (18-24 years) showed greater interest in brand history (30%) and opinions of friends and community (20%), reflecting their influence by internet culture and social media.

Advice for New Buyers

The survey results emphasize that those looking to buy a new car in the UAE should look beyond the initial price. Choosing a car with a long warranty, low maintenance costs, and high fuel efficiency can save a lot of money in the long run and contribute to reducing the carbon footprint and protecting the environment.

The Future of the UAE Car Market

With the ongoing shift toward smart and sustainable mobility, competition is expected to increase among brands offering practical benefits and eco-friendly performance. Today’s UAE consumer is more aware and seeks solutions that meet daily needs and align with society’s aspirations for a more sustainable future.

In conclusion, the UAE car market is no longer just about luxury or performance but has become a competitive arena based on innovation, long-term value, and environmental care. Companies that understand this shift and respond with practical and smart products and services will succeed in gaining customer trust and loyalty in the coming years.