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Škoda’s Roadmap to Growth and Innovation in the Middle East

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front-angle action shot of a skoda scala and a skoda kamiq driven on the road
Exclusive Interview with Lukas Honzak, Managing Director at Škoda Middle East

What specific strategies have contributed to the 10% sales growth in the Middle East, and how do you plan to sustain this momentum?

Škoda’s 10% sales growth in the Middle East has been driven by a combination of its diverse product portfolio and nearly 130 years of European expertise, delivering quality and reliability that customers trust. From compact sedans to versatile SUVs, Škoda offers vehicles that cater to a broad range of demographics, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Furthermore, Škoda’s value-for-money proposition and competitive pricing have been crucial in attracting new customers and driving sales across the region.

In addition to its strong product line-up, Škoda has developed robust partnerships with local dealers, expanding its dealer network to improve accessibility and brand presence. By collaborating closely with partners and integrating Škoda’s core values, the company has achieved significant milestones, including the launch of a state-of-the-art, digital-first showroom in Kuwait. This expansion underscores Škoda’s strategic focus on the Middle East as a key region for growth.

The success has also been strengthened by ongoing support from Škoda’s global headquarters, which has provided strategic guidance and resources to ensure smooth operations and alignment with global standards. Recognising the Middle East as a high-potential market, Škoda remains committed to expanding the brand’s presence in the region, positioning it as a key area for long-term investment and growth.

Are there any upcoming model launches, facelifts, or generational changes planned for Škoda vehicles? How do these future releases align with the brand’s strategy for the Middle East?

Yes, Škoda has several exciting model launches and facelifts planned. In the final quarter of 2024, we will introduce refreshed versions of the Kamiq, Scala, and Karoq. At the beginning of 2025, we will launch our hero and top-selling model, the all-new Kodiaq, which has been a tremendous success in Europe, as well as the completely new Superb, our flagship limousine. Additionally, the Octavia, our best-selling model globally, will also receive a significant facelift.

2025 will be a remarkable year for Škoda Middle East, with a completely refreshed portfolio, showcasing new cars in new showrooms with our new corporate identity (CI). This is truly a unique moment for the brand, and we’re excited to present this new lineup to the region, where it’s bound to attract a lot of attention.

Furthermore, we are in discussions with Škoda HQ to bring additional new models to the region very soon, and we’re eager to share more details shortly. This sets 2025 up as a milestone year, with innovative products and expanded offerings that align with Škoda’s strategy to meet the evolving needs of customers in the Middle East.

Can you provide details on any new partnerships or business ventures Škoda is planning or has already secured in the Middle East? Are there specific markets or regions within the Middle East where these new collaborations or expansions are planned?

We are proud to have recently announced a key partnership with L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France. L’Étape Dubai is an amateur cycling event that brings the same quality and experience of the official Tour de France to the Middle East for the first time in February 2025.

Cycling is deeply embedded in Škoda’s brand identity, reflecting our commitment to promoting active lifestyles and community engagement. Our “We Love Cycling” platform exemplifies this ethos, and L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France is a significant part of this initiative. Škoda’s collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council for L’Étape highlights the importance of strategic partnerships with government bodies. This collaboration not only amplifies the event’s reach but also reinforces Škoda’s commitment to promoting health and fitness in the Middle East.

With the growing popularity of cycling in the region, we plan to expand our “We Love Cycling” platform across the Middle East, bringing cycling and sustainable mobility closer to our audience.

Could you share more about the most prominent dealerships and service centres in the UAE? How have they impacted, sales figures, customer experience and service accessibility?

Škoda’s prominent dealerships in the UAE, represented by Ali & Sons in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain, have played a crucial role in boosting sales and enhancing the overall customer experience. We offer customers a seamless buying process and top-tier after-sales support. This customer-centric approach has been a key contributor to Škoda’s sales growth in the region, with the UAE contributing over 56% of the overall Middle East sales year-to-date. The UAE has also experienced an average year-on-year sales growth of 46% since 2021, reflecting high levels of customer satisfaction and convenience.

Looking ahead, 2025 will see major investments in additional Škoda facilities in the UAE, underlining Ali & Sons’ long-term commitment to the brand’s growth. Early 2025 will witness the opening of a brand-new Škoda showroom in Abu Dhabi. In addition to new car sales, Ali & Sons will introduce the Certified Pre-Owned programme, Škoda Plus, in Q1 2025 to cater to a new audience, offering quality pre-owned vehicles with a risk-free experience.

Later in 2025, a state-of-the-art service centre and body shop dedicated to Škoda will open in Al Quoz, Dubai, as the largest Škoda service facility in the region. Additionally, Škoda will continue to bring its products closer to customers through roadshows, motor shows, and pop-up displays in strategic public locations, such as Mirdif City Centre and Dubai Festival City from 18th September to 18th October, where customers can experience our latest models and take test drives.

Furthermore, 2025 marks a significant year for Škoda’s regional growth as we expand into new markets, primarily to Oman and Saudi Arabia, completing our coverage of the entire GCC market. This expansion, along with our refreshed product portfolio and new facilities, will solidify Škoda’s presence across the Middle East, helping us fulfil our commitment to the region.

Could you provide insight into Škoda’s sales development in the Middle East and UAE, and the targets the brand aims to achieve by the end of the year?

Škoda’s market share in the Middle East has grown steadily, with a 10% increase in sales to date in 2024, driven by strong demand in key markets like the UAE and Kuwait. The Kodiaq and Kushaq models have been significant contributors to this success, reflecting the strength of our SUV lineup.

Looking ahead, 2025 is set to be a transformative year for Škoda, as we introduce a completely refreshed product portfolio, including the all-new Kodiaq and Superb, alongside major facelifts for the Octavia and Karoq. With these new models and our expansion into new markets, particularly Saudi Arabia, we expect to further boost our sales figures. While this year has been one of stabilisation and preparation for future growth, our refreshed portfolio and new market entries will position us for even greater success in 2025 and beyond.

Our focus on enhancing customer accessibility and service quality will remain central to our strategy as we aim to solidify our position in the Middle East with our broad range of SUVs and saloons.

Automotive

New Ford Taurus Arrives to Middle East, Bringing Best-in-Class Technology and Driving Experience to Sedan Customers

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A three-quarter front view of a slate blue Ford Taurus sedan parked on a grey tiled courtyard.

Ford Middle East and North Africa has marked the official arrival of the new Taurus in the Middle East. Building on its storied legacy, this latest iteration introduces sophisticated design, cutting-edge features, and a blend of premium comfort and dynamic performance tailored for the diverse needs of the region.

Commanding attention with a completely refreshed aesthetic, with its exterior boasting a bold new front and rear fascia, updated headlamp architecture, and distinctive new wheel designs, while new vibrant colors like Hot Pepper Red and Vapor Blue ensured Taurus makes an undeniable visual statement. The interior, too, receives significant enhancements with new color and material choices, refined seat trims, and a modified console designed for heightened comfort and contemporary style.

Ravi Ravichandran, President of Ford Middle East and North Africa, said: “The new Ford Taurus represents a pivotal evolution for one of Ford’s most successful nameplates, designed specifically with our loyal Middle East and North African customers in mind. This sedan combines a rich heritage with forward-thinking innovation, making it perfectly timed for customers seeking a vehicle that blends prestige, practicality, and advanced technology.”

The newest Taurus is engineered to lead, offering a choice of powerful and efficient powertrains. Under the hood, the robust 2.0L EcoBoost engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, continues to deliver commendable performance, producing an impressive 239 horsepower and 382 Nm of torque. For those prioritizing even greater fuel efficiency, the 1.5L Hybrid engine offers an enhanced drive without compromising on power. The result is a pair of powertrains that meet diverse driving preferences while delivering a smooth and responsive experience across city streets and open highways.

The interior cabin of a Ford Taurus viewed from the back seat.

At the heart of the new Taurus’ comprehensive technology upgrades is Ford’s latest-generation SYNC 4A infotainment system, presented on an impressive 13.2-inch full HD center touchscreen—one of the biggest in its class. This intuitive system offers seamless connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

New features that further redefine Ford’s flagship sedan’s convenience and luxury include a 360-degree camera, now available from the base Ambiente model, and a premium 10-speaker B&O Sound System integrated into the top-tier Titanium series for an immersive audio experience.

Building on its reputation for spaciousness, the new Taurus also caters effectively to families, providing ample cargo space and roomy interiors for both daily commutes and long journeys. Additionally, ventilated seats, available from the Trend trim, guarantees optimal comfort in any climate, while the available dual-panel panoramic sunroof enhances the cabin’s sense of openness and luxury.

Equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and ease of driving—where features such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control; Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking; and the Lane-Keeping System with Blind Spot Monitoring and Cross-Traffic Alert, Taurus is peace of mind in motion. The 360-degree camera supplements it further by providing a comprehensive view for easier maneuvering and parking, backed up by Intersection Pre-collision Assist, and Emergency Steering Assist for extra support to help avoid incidents.

Taurus is also ushering in a new era of connected vehicle experiences, with the Ford Pass app available in select Middle East markets, offering added convenience, control, and peace of mind. New Ford Taurus owners can now remotely start their vehicle, pre-condition the cabin to their preferred temperature, and even activate the horn and lights to easily locate their car in a crowded parking lot. The all-new app also provides essential vehicle status updates, allowing users to monitor vital information such as fuel levels, odometer readings, tire pressure, and oil, placing a host of functionalities directly into the customer’s hands.

The arrival of the New Ford Taurus is a strategic move that reinforces Ford’s commitment to providing a diverse portfolio of vehicles that resonate with regional customers, from tried and trusted EcoBoost-powered engines to New Energy hybrids complementing the Middle East region’s ambitious sustainability goals.

With its blend of everyday usability, value for money, and strong dealer support, the new Ford Taurus—in showrooms now—is crafted to strengthen its leadership in the segment and continue its legacy across the Middle East and North Africa.

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BMW Motorrad Middle East and AGMC showcase next-generation frontline motorcycles at Intersec 2026.

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A professional exhibition booth for BMW Motorrad and AGMC at a large indoor trade show. The modern, well-lit stall features a large illuminated pillar with the slogan "MAKE LIFE A RIDE" and a photo of a motorcycle. In the center, a BMW police motorcycle is displayed on a platform designed to look like a road. Staff members in business attire stand behind a branded AGMC counter talking to visitors, while the background shows a high-ceilinged convention hall with other exhibits.

BMW Motorrad Middle East along with AGMC, the authorised importer of BMW Group vehicles for Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, showcases BMW Motorrad’s latest Authority and Protection motorcycles at Intersec 2026, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety and fire protection, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Intersec brings together global leaders, government entities and industry experts to explore the technologies shaping the future of public safety and emergency response. As part of this year’s exhibition, there is a lineup of BMW Motorrad motorcycles specifically engineered to support frontline and authority operations across diverse and demanding environments in the emirate.

Purpose-built authority motorcycles on display

On display at the BMW Motorrad and AGMC stand are the four BMW Motorrad Authority models, each designed to deliver reliability, performance and adaptability in real-world operational conditions:

BMW R 1300 RT-P

The BMW R 1300 RT-P is a touring-focused authority motorcycle designed for high-performance patrol duties and everyday operational versatility. It combines excellent ergonomics and long-distance comfort with outstanding maneuverability in urban traffic. Powered by BMW’s 1,300 cc ShiftCam boxer engine delivering 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, the RT-P provides strong, efficient performance and high stability for demanding authority use.

BMW R 1300 GS-P

The BMW R 1300 GS-P is a highly capable all-terrain authority motorcycle built for operation across mixed and challenging environments. Its air/liquid-cooled 1,300 cc boxer engine produces 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, ensuring confident performance on and off road. Advanced rider assistance systems support stability, safety and control, making the GS-P a reliable platform for complex operational requirements.

BMW F 900 GS-P

The BMW F 900 GS-P is a versatile enduro motorcycle designed for authority operations on asphalt and unpaved surfaces. Its parallel-twin engine delivers strong, controllable performance, while the lightweight design and 14.5-litre plastic fuel tank contribute to improved handling and operational efficiency. The F 900 GS-P offers a balanced combination of agility, rider comfort and safety-focused technology.

BMW F 800 GS-P

The BMW F 800 GS-P is a proven midsize adventure motorcycle offering efficient performance and confident handling. With an output of 87 hp and a balanced chassis, it delivers dependable capability without excessive fuel consumption. Its manageable weight and rider-focused ergonomics support safe, controlled operation in demanding situations.

Steve Noon, Head of BMW Motorrad Middle East, said: “At BMW Motorrad we take pride in delivering purpose-built motorcycles that support law enforcement agencies in carrying out their duties with confidence and precision. Our ongoing commitment to innovation and rider-focused engineering has established BMW Motorrad as a trusted and leading choice for authority fleets in the region.”

Muhamet Latifi, General Manager for BMW Motorrad at AGMC, commented: “The participation of AGMC with BMW Motorrad Middle East at intersec 2026 reinforces our ongoing commitment to delivering specialised mobility solutions for authority and government partners. By combining advanced engineering, rider-focused technology and adaptable performance, BMW Motorrad’s Authority motorcycles continue to set benchmarks in reliability and operational readiness.”

Intersec is currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with visitors invited to experience BMW Motorrad’s Authority and Protection range firsthand throughout the exhibition.

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NIO Inc. Provides December, Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Delivery Update: Achieving a New Record-High Monthly and Quarterly Deliveries

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Side view of a dark gray NIO electric SUV parked on a paved driveway in front of a modern house with large glass doors and warm interior lighting.

In December 2025, NIO Inc. delivered 48,135 vehicles globally, marking a new monthly record and representing a year-on-year increase of 54.6%. The NIO brand delivered 31,897 vehicles, achieving a historic high with 54.8% year-on-year growth, and recording five consecutive months of growth. The ONVO brand delivered 9,154 vehicles in December. The firefly brand delivered 7,084 vehicles, reaching a new monthly record, with a month-on-month increase of 16.4%, and attaining five consecutive months of growth.

In the fourth quarter of 2025, NIO Inc. achieved record-high quarterly deliveries of 124,807 vehicles, representing a 71.7% year-over-year increase. Deliveries of the NIO brand reached 67,433 vehicles, marking an all-time high and a 27.8% year-over-year growth. The ONVO brand delivered 38,290 vehicles in the fourth quarter, posting a 92.1% year-over-year increase. Deliveries of the firefly brand totaled 19,084 in the fourth quarter, achieving a record high and representing a 52.8% quarter-over-quarter increase.

In 2025, NIO Inc. delivered a total of 326,028 vehicles, representing a new annual record and a year-on-year increase of 46.9%. Total deliveries of the NIO brand reached 178,806. The ONVO brand delivered 107,808 in 2025, hitting a record high. The firefly brand delivered 39,414 vehicles for the year.

As of today, NIO Inc. has cumulatively delivered 997,592 vehicles. Cumulative deliveries of the NIO, ONVO, and firefly brands reached 829,609, 128,569, and 39,414 vehicles respectively.

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