Automotive
From Sand to Street: Seven Decades of The Nissan Patrol’s Grit and Glory
 
																								
												
												
											Discover the history of the beast that eats boulders for breakfast and smokes tarmac for dinner.
From Australia’s Outback to the Arabian dunes, the Nissan Patrol is an unstoppable machine that redefined rugged. Over seven decades and generations, the Nissan Patrol has gained worldwide reverence for its immense off-roading prowess and rock-solid ruggedness. Over this part of the green globe, the Patrol is a true icon with a legendary stature and cult following. It has remained one of the best-selling models in the Middle East for quite a long time now. In 2023, the Patrol was the second-best-selling car model in the UAE, second only to the Nissan Sunny. We expect this success streak to continue with the newly introduced, latest, and arguably the greatest seventh-generation Patrol. But then, have you ever wondered how a rugged SUV managed to achieve such a high degree of respect and veneration? To comprehend that, you should gain a full understanding of the war-battling, dune-bashing, turbo-whistling history of this legendary SUV. Let’s dissect the annals of the Nissan Patrol, generation by generation.
First Generation (4W60) 1951-1960: The One That Conquered Mount Fuji
The original Nissan Patrol was an old-school midsize off-roader. It was very much redolent of the Willys Jeep, that it was nicknamed the Nissan Jeep. The 4W60 shares its birth year with yet another living legend — the Toyota Land Cruiser.

Initially exclusive to the Japanese market, the 4W60 was exclusively a petrol-powered, 4-wheel-drive vehicle offered in SUV and wagon configurations. The first-gen Nissan Jeep SUVs were powered by a 3.7-liter inline-6 engine, sourced from the Nissan 290 bus of the time, exclusively mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The original Patrol demonstrated its exceptional off-roading prowess by attaining a groundbreaking achievement. It was the first car to conquer Mount Fuji — a 2,500-meter ascend.
For the first time, the maiden Patrol was bestowed with a refresh in 1955, marking the debut of the 4W61 Patrol. The 4W61 brought forth a few cosmetic changes along with a powertrain upgrade, replacing the 3.7-liter with a new 4.0-liter inline-6. However, the “Nissan Jeep” donned the iconic Patrol appellation for the first time only in 1958, when the 4W65 iteration was introduced. Thus, the legendary nameplate was born, seven years after the birth of the legend itself. The first Patrol arrived at the Middle-Eastern shores in 1957, specifically in Kuwait. It quickly garnered attention and appreciation for its all-terrain capabilities.
Second Generation (60 Series) 1959-1980: The One That Crossed The Simpson Desert
The second generation Nissan Patrol arrived in 1959, with an expanded portfolio comprising more configurations to choose from. Dubbed the 60 Series, the second-gen Nissan Patrol was produced in short, medium, and long wheelbase versions with soft-top hard-top, and wagon body style options.

It was also the first Patrol to be extensively exported to other global markets, including the USA, Australia, Canada, and the Middle East. In fact, the Patrol was the first model to be sold in the U.S. as a Nissan-badged car. All 60 Series Patrol models continued to be powered by a 4.0-liter inline-6 motor, which initially came paired with a 3-speed manual transmission which was later upgraded to a 4-speed manual.

While the first Patrol attained glory by climbing a mountain, the second one crossed a desert to amass eminence. In 1962, a short-wheelbase hard-top Nissan Patrol crossed the Simpson Desert, which spans across the Northern Territory, South Australia, and Queensland in central Australia. The course, traversing an extensive expanse of around 1,100 dunes, was completed in 12 days, and Nissan Australia claims that this Patrol was the first motorized vehicle to achieve this feat.
On another side of the world, the Indian army obtained a license from Nissan to manufacture their own version of the 60 Series Patrol in the early sixties. Named the Nissan Jonga (Jabalpur Ordnance and Guncarriage Assembly), this military-spec Patrol proved itself in the 1965 and 1971 wars and later in several counter-insurgency operations across the country. Further down the line, a civilian version of the Jonga was sold to the public, marking the Patrol’s official (kind of) presence in India too. It is also noteworthy that it was during the era of the 60 Series Patrol, specifically in 1968, when the AW Rostamani Group established Arabian Automobiles, which is now the largest and sole distributor of Nissan cars in the UAE.
Third Generation (160 Series) 1980-1989: The One That Ranked In The Paris-Dakar
The successor to the 60 Series Patrol arrived in 1980 and was christened with the model code 160. The third generation Patrol was the first of its kind to address the needs of and appeal to all kinds of consumers, whereas the first two generations were more purpose-built vehicles.

The 160 Series introduced several novelties, including an automatic transmission, a 5-door body style, a seven-seater cabin layout, and air conditioning. On top of that, the Patrol was now offered with multiple petrol and diesel engine options. The 160 Series can be considered the first Patrol for the masses, as it came outfitted with desirable amenities and convenience features.
The successor to the 60 Series Patrol arrived in 1980 and was christened with the model code 160. The third generation Patrol was the first of its kind to address the needs of and appeal to all kinds of consumers, whereas the first two generations were more purpose-built vehicles. The 160 Series introduced several novelties, including an automatic transmission, a 5-door body style, a seven-seater cabin layout, and air conditioning. On top of that, the Patrol was now offered with multiple petrol and diesel engine options. The 160 Series can be considered the first Patrol for the masses, as it came outfitted with desirable amenities and convenience features.

However, no compromises were made to achieve these positives, as the Patrol continued to exemplify its immense resilience. The third-generation Patrol achieved a milestone in 1987, becoming the first diesel-powered vehicle to ever finish in the top 10 of the fabled Paris Dakar Rally. This mighty victory wasn’t an easy venture for the Patrol. Nissan partnered up with Coca-Cola and enrolled two vehicles enshrouded in a bright yellow Fanta-Limón livery for the 13,000 km race across Europe, Algeria, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal. Unfortunately, the team’s support truck broke down during the second stage of the rally, while one of the two participant trucks met a catastrophic fate after rolling down a dune. Despite the unfortunate circumstances, the remaining Patrol, managed to complete the race, that too without spares and support. This superlative feat further concreted the Patrol’s reputation as a formidable 4×4 SUV in the global automotive landscape. The third-generation Nissan Patrol was also the first to be called the Nissan Safari in Japan, a name that later gained global fame.
Fourth Generation (Y60) 1989-1997: The One That Blended Luxury With Performance
The fourth generation Nissan Patrol code-named Y60 was a massive innovative leap in terms of comfort and convenience. The most prominent advancement was the upgrade to an all-around coil-spring suspension setup, which was state-of-the-art technology at the time, compared to the leaf-spring setup of its predecessors.

This major milestone in the path of the Patrol’s evolution was also complemented by the addition of power steering and synchro mesh in reverse gear. This trio of upgrades elevated the Nissan Patrol into the luxury segment, while its inherent ruggedness remained intact and unaffected. Nissan essentially uplifted the Patrol into a realm previously dominated by purebred luxury SUVs lik the Range Rover of the time.
Fifth Generation (Y61) 1997- Present: The One Adored By The Middle East

The fifth generation is arguably the most iconic and influential Nissan Patrol ever. Nissan revealed the fifth generation Patrol, code-named Y61, in December 1997, thus transcending the model’s rock-solid reputation into the modern automotive era. It was a comprehensive redesign, introducing a bunch of new powertrain options. The new design was truly revolutionary, featuring a sleeker body shape and a new V-shaped grille. The interior also flaunted upgraded materials, while the feature set was updated with additions including satellite navigation and a reverse camera.

The Y61 Patrol is easily the most iconic, evocative generation of the mighty off-roader, gaining a worldwide reputation for its massive 4.8-liter TB48DE inline-6 motor (massive for an inline-6). Such high-displacement 6-cylinder motors are a rare sight nowadays, and this configuration made the Y61 a creamy smooth SUV with plenty of torque available across the rev range. The sturdy, brawny motor was also exceptionally tuner-friendly, which was properly exploited by enthusiasts, especially in the Middle East. The TB48DE could handle north of 2,000 horsepower, which made it the emperor of both the dunes and roads. The Y61 was so influential in the Middle East that it was reincarnated exclusively for the said market in 2017.

Dubbed the Nissan Patrol Super Safari, the new variant was an updated version that retained the original appeal while adding some touches of modernity. As expected, it was powered by the renowned 4.8-liter inline-6, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. While the exterior remained mostly identical to the original Y61, the Super Safari’s interior featured novelties including powered front seats, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic climate control, and more. Followed by the success of the Super Safari, Nissan launched its even cooler 3-door version —also known as the Hard Top version— in the Middle East. While the body style is different, the specifications and feature set remained the same.
Sixth Generation (Y62) 2010-Present: The One With 8 Cylinders And A NISMO Badge

The sixth generation Nissan Patrol code-named Y62 was unveiled in February 2010 in Abu Dhabi. This is the Patrol model we now see abundantly on UAE roads in its various iterations (mostly Platinum and NISMO). The new Patrol was longer and wider than ever, and this time there was no short-wheelbase model on offer. The Patrol had now transformed into a beefier full-size SUV that offered superior cabin space while not compromising on off-roadability. Nissan also introduced a more luxurious, Infiniti-badged version of the Patrol dubbed the QX56 (later the QX80). It was the first Patrol-based vehicle to be sold in the North American market since, 1969. Later on, a direct iteration of the Patrol was introduced in North America in 2017, in the form of the Nissan Armada.
For the first time, the new Patrol was offered with a V8 motor, initially as the standard powertrain and later exclusively as a higher-end option. At first, this 5.6-liter V8 was the only powertrain offered with the Y62 Patrol, which produced 317 horsepower in the lower-spec and came paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The same motor churned out 400 horses in the higher-end configuration and was clubbed to a 7-speed automatic. Later on, the base V8 was replaced by a 4.0-liter V6 that cranked out 275 horsepower and 394 nm of torque, while the lower-output V8 powertrain was discontinued. Also, initially, a manual transmission was offered with the base trim.

For 2014, Nissan facelifted the Patrol, adorning it with revised lighting elements, LED headlamps, a new interior shade, and a new set of wheels. The next major facelift happened in 2019 when the Patrol received a new, more angular front and bumpers, giving the mighty off-roader a modern flair and a sportier mien. This facelift also equipped the Patrol with Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility driver-assistance features.
Following this update, in 2021, we saw the birth of something new and paradigm-shifting. Nissan unveiled the first-ever Patrol NISMO variant, exclusive to the GCC countries. The Nissan Patrol NISMO featured signature, NISMO-specific elements including sportier front and rear fascia, a red and black interior with carbon fiber accents, 22-inch 2-tone alloys, and a set of Bilstein shocks for enhanced handling. Powering the Patrol NISMO was the same 5.6-liter V8, which was tuned to produce a higher output of 428 horsepower and 560 nm. Now that the new and latest generation Y63 2025 Nissan Patrol is exclusively V6-powered, the Y62 achieves a future-collectible status, as the only factory-V8-powered Nissan Patrol. This makes the NISMO version even more desirable.
Seventh Generation (Y63) 2024+: The One That Continues The Legacy

Now for the latest flag-bearer of the Patrol legacy, as Nissan calls it — their “symbol of adventure, pride, and resilience in the Middle East”. The all-new Nissan Patrol was unveiled on the 3rd of September. The new generation builds on its immediate predecessor with a wave of modernity inside out, while retaining the Patrol’s inherent boldness and ruggedness. The new Patrol looks cutting edge and comes laden with more advanced underpinnings and technology features.
The new Nissan Patrol is powered exclusively by a pair of V6 powertrain options. The base version is a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6, producing 316HP and 386Nm of torque. The heart of the matter is the new high-end powertrain, a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that cranks out 425HP and 700Nm of torque. Both engines come mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission.

Inside the all-new Patrol, you are treated with all sorts of tech features expected from a contemporary luxury SUV. The infotainment setup has been upgraded with a new 28.6-inch horizontal Monolith display, featuring twin 14.3-inch touchscreens with Google built-in. Complementing this high-end central infotainment system is a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium audio system, offering a proprietary surround sound setup optimized for the Patrol. The latest Patrol is undoubtedly a thorough upgrade over the one it succeeds, and this groundbreaking update endows the Patrol with futuristic characteristics while keeping its rugged DNA intact.
Automotive
World’s Best Autonomous Racing Teams Push the Limits of Driverless Technology During A2RL Qualifying
 
														Qualification for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) has concluded with a thrilling pole position for reigning champions, TUM. The German team is one of six that have made it through a demanding, multi-stage qualification process to the Grand Final on November 15.
A2RL is a demonstration of cutting-edge autonomous technology, accelerating AI development through competition in extreme conditions. Eleven international teams travelled to Abu Dhabi to qualify for the second season of the world’s most advanced autonomous racing championship.
The competition is designed to push artificial intelligence to its physical limits as the best minds from academic institutions, private companies, and privateer race teams compete on the world stage for a US$2.25 million prize pool.

Record lap times
Further pushing the frontier of driverless technology, history was also made during the week of intensive qualification as teams began to consistently set sub-1-minute lap times on the North Circuit configuration of the Yas Marina track. Italy’s Unimore team, a returning finalist, set an autonomous lap record of 58.87 seconds – seven hundredths of a second faster than the benchmark lap set by a professional human racing driver during data collection laps (59.20 seconds).
The record-setting lap was achieved during Pace Qualification, where all teams completed three separate 15-minute sessions to set their fastest possible times. This was followed by Multi-Car Qualification, four heats of twelve laps, where performance highlights included a spectacular overtake on Unimore from TUM, securing pole position in their pursuit of back-to-back wins.
World First: Six-Car Grand Final
Six teams – TUM, Unimore, Kinetiz, TII Racing, PoliMOVE and Constructor – qualified for the Grand Final on 15th of November 2025 at Yas Marina Circuit. Representing four countries, they will compete in a 24-lap multi-car race, the largest race of its kind and a spectacle like no other. The event will also feature a Silver Race time trial for the remaining five A2RL teams.
This year, former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat returns for the second instalment of the Human vs AI showcase – a demonstration of machine precision versus human instinct and the rapid evolution of AI performance.

Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, commented: “This season, we’re pushing the boundaries of autonomous racing even further and redefining what is possible. From week to week, we are seeing ‘machine’ capabilities rapidly approaching human performance – even surpassing some human benchmark times set during data collection. This week, Unimore has thrown down the gauntlet with a record-breaking lap time.
“Next month, we will witness six formidably competitive teams race for victory. Last year’s A2RL Champion TUM is in pole position, but given the intense competition during qualification, the Grand Final in November is set to be an exhilarating conclusion!”
Ayoub Raji, Co-Lead of Unimore Racing said: “We are proud to have demonstrated that an autonomous race car can deliver close to human capabilities. The competition was fierce, with many teams bringing extensive experience and strong technical resources. Our autonomous stack proved not only to be the fastest but also the safest, skillfully exploiting the kerbs to avoid a collision during TUM’s overtake. We can’t wait to be back on track for the Grand Final on November 15, pushing our software to the absolute limit in pursuit of first place. “
Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week
The 2025 A2RL race will be the climax of the first-ever Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week (ADAW). This new six-day event brings together researchers and industry experts across a series of high-profile summits, exhibitions, and events. ADAW includes the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit, DRIFTx Exhibition, and RoboCup Asia-Pacific.
A2RL was conceptualized under the vision and direction of H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President and Secretary General of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). It is organized and driven by ASPIRE, part of the ATRC that is responsible for technological “Grand Challenges”. ASPIRE leads the UAE’s efforts to advance breakthrough research, foster global collaborations, and translate high-impact technologies into real-world applications.
Automotive
2025 GEELY OKAVANGO FIRST-DRIVE REVIEW: THREE ROWS OF COMFORT
 
														Amalsha VS
The Seven-Seater Specialist.
QUICK TAKE
A genuinely practical seven-seater SUV that prioritizes space and functionality over styling, making it a compelling choice for larger families.
Shiny Bits
- Genuinely impressive third-row space
- Comprehensive feature set.
- Smooth dual-clutch transmission
- Competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater.
Rough edges
- Somewhat generic exterior styling.
- Interior materials feel budget-conscious
- Apple CarPlay is wired only
- No Android Auto at all.
Founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely Auto has evolved from a small Chinese startup into a global automotive powerhouse that now owns Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar. Introduced to the UAE market through AGMC as the official distributor, Geely brings decades of automotive expertise and international partnerships to create vehicles that blend practical design with modern technology. The Okavango represents their vision of what a family-focused SUV should deliver in today’s market.
CONFIDENT DESIGN & PRACTICAL PROPORTIONS

The Okavango is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement.
The Okavango presents a thoughtful approach to SUV design that prioritizes function over fashion. Its bold front grille creates a commanding road presence, while the clean lines and well-proportioned silhouette give it a confident stance without appearing dull. The LED lighting signatures add a contemporary touch that keeps the design current, though the overall aesthetic plays it safe within established SUV conventions.
What immediately strikes you about the Okavango is its substantial size – this is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement. The result is a design that may not win beauty contests but clearly communicates its practical intentions to potential buyers seeking maximum utility.
CAPABLE POWERTRAIN & PUNCHY PERFORMANCE

Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves.
Under the Okavango’s hood resides a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor pushing out 218 horsepower and 325 NM, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Acceleration is more than adequate: taking around 8 seconds to achieve a speed of 100 km/h, quick enough for confident overtakes on the UAE highways.
In Comfort mode, power delivery is smooth, while Sport mode noticeably sharpens engine response. Steering is tuned for lightness, good in city driving, but at higher speeds it could use a little more weight. Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, in a tall, three-row SUV, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves. Ride comfort is the focus: the suspension soaks up speed bumps and road imperfections with composure.
CONCEIVED AS A COMFY PEOPLE HAULER

The second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout delivers superior comfort and easier access to the third row.
Interior materials strike a balance between cost-consciousness and perceived quality, with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen providing clear graphics and intuitive operation. However, Android Auto isn’t offered, which we consider an essential feature for a modern car of this time. Apple CarPlay is included but only a wired connection is supported.
The overall cabin design ranks functionality above luxury, which suits the vehicle’s practical mission perfectly. This is where the Okavango distinguishes itself. Its flexible seating configuration allows you to accommodate passengers or cargo as needed, with the second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout providing superior comfort and easier access to the third row. The second row sliding & reclining gives flexibility to balance passenger comfort between the second and third rows.
The highlight factor of the Okavango is that its third-row is genuinely usable. Unlike many other mid-size crossovers, the Okavango doesn’t simply provide a third-row for namesake which is too cramped for grown-ups. Two adults can be seated there with a reasonable amount of legroom and headroom for shorter journeys. The seats fold and recline; and although ingress/egress is still a bit less convenient than second row, is not too much of a hassle.
Air conditioning is adjustable in the rear rows well, which matters under UAE heat and strong sun. Even with all seven seats occupied, passengers wouldn’t feel cramped or compromised inside the Okavango; a rare achievement in this segment.
FINAL FIRST IMPRESSIONS

For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore.
The Geely Okavango succeeds brilliantly in its primary mission – delivering genuine seven-seater capability at a competitive price point. It’s a vehicle that understands its target audience and delivers exactly what they need without trying to be something it’s not. The exceptional third-row space alone makes it worth considering for families who need to transport seven people regularly.
It may not excite enthusiasts or turn heads on the UAE roads laden with all kinds of fancy automobiles. But the Okavango represents exactly the kind of practical, well-executed family transport that many buyers are seeking. For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore. It’s a vehicle that does the important things well, which is often more valuable than flashy shock-value-features that rarely get used.
FAQ
Yes, the Geely Okavango is available in the UAE through AGMC, the official distributor for Geely vehicles in the region.
The Geely Okavango is a seven-seater SUV with a flexible seating configuration featuring a second-row triple captain’s chairs layout and a genuinely usable third row.
The Okavango is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 218 horsepower and 325 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Geely Okavango accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds, providing adequate power for confident highway overtaking.
The Okavango features wired Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto is not available on this model.
Yes, unlike many mid-size SUVs, the Okavango’s third row offers genuine usability with reasonable legroom and headroom for two adults on shorter journeys.
The Geely Okavango offers competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater SUV in the UAE market, making it an attractive value proposition for families.
Automotive
DRIVE NOW, BUY LATER: Cariva’s Market-Changing Philosophy
 
														Exclusive Interview with Harshvardhan Singh, Business Head, CARIVA

CARIVA is positioned as a tech-enabled, transparent platform for used car sales. What gap in the UAE automotive ecosystem did you see that inspired you to launch CARIVA?
The UAE is a very competitive market for used cars, yet there is still a wide gap between customer expectations and the actual services available. When people buy a pre-owned car today, the first thought that often crosses their mind is, “Am I taking a risk?” This question reflects a deep concern about trust. Buyers want to know if the car is in good condition, whether it has been in an accident, if it was serviced at authorized centers, whether the odometer has been tampered with, and how many people have driven it before.
We realized that answering these questions honestly and transparently could transform the customer experience. That is how Cariva came into existence. We are not just selling cars, we are giving customers peace of mind. At Cariva, we share everything about the car openly, from its service history to accident records. Each vehicle undergoes a full inspection at a government-authorized center before a buyer makes any decision. By doing this, we flip the customer’s question from “Am I taking a risk?” to “Am I protected?” We’re not just filling a gap – we’re disrupting an entire ecosystem that has operated on opacity for too long.
CARIVA has been described as “built from the ground up” — from ideation to execution. What was the most challenging stage of bringing this venture to life?
When you are working on an idea, everything looks straightforward on paper. The reality of execution is very different. Challenges appear at every stage, and the most difficult part for us was identifying exactly what the customer wanted and where the gap existed between expectations and reality. We realized we weren’t just building another used car platform – we were disrupting decades of industry practices that prioritized profit over customer protection.
We found that many businesses in this space focus on what they want to sell rather than what customers are looking for. Our challenge was to design solutions that addressed customer needs directly. This required listening carefully to buyers, understanding their pain points, and rethinking how used cars are presented and sold. The result is a model that fills the trust gap and delivers what customers truly expect, not just what the industry is accustomed to offering.

The UAE already has established players in the used car space. How does CARIVA differentiate itself in terms of customer experience, trust, and transparency?
Used cars are now outpacing new car sales worldwide, and the UAE is no exception. Buyers are drawn to affordability, but what they value just as much is transparency and trust. This is where Cariva stands apart.
We are not in the business of simply selling a car. We provide a mobility solution that is backed by confidence and honesty. Every customer receives a detailed inspection report that includes even the smallest imperfections a car may have due to age. We also provide a complete service history, which is something customers often struggle to access elsewhere.
Most importantly, every car is backed by an original manufacturer warranty, not just a generic third-party plan. For buyers, this approach translates into confidence, flexibility, and control. They are not just making a purchase, they are making an informed decision that they can feel good about for years to come. Beyond transparency, we offer choice. With over 100+ models available from various makes, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium vehicles, Cariva ensures every customer finds exactly what they’re looking for, regardless of their budget or lifestyle preferences.
You’ve previously mentioned blending data and emotion in brand building. How does this philosophy reflect in CARIVA’s business model and customer journey?
I strongly believe in data-driven decision-making, but I also recognize that data alone cannot create meaningful connections. When combined with emotional intelligence, data becomes a powerful tool for shaping customer experiences.
Before we built Cariva, we carried out extensive market research to understand the size of the opportunity, customer needs, and pain points from past purchase experiences. The insights we uncovered were eye-opening and helped us shape the concept of Cariva in a way that directly responds to customer realities.
We also understand that every customer is unique. A car is not just a vehicle; it often reflects a buyer’s lifestyle and personality. At Cariva, we support customers at every step of their journey, from selecting the right car to arranging financing, insurance, and registration. By combining data with empathy, we are able to deliver a holistic mobility solution that respects both rational needs and emotional aspirations, making car ownership seamless from day one.

Consumer trust has always been a sticking point in the used car market. How does CARIVA ensure quality assurance in inspections, certifications, and after-sales support?
Trust is the foundation of Cariva. For too long, the lack of transparency in the UAE’s used car industry has left buyers second-guessing their purchase. We are addressing this by building trust into every stage of the process.
Each vehicle goes through a comprehensive multi-point inspection that covers the engine, chassis, transmission, gearbox, and safety systems. Cars are certified at authorized centers, and this provides customers with verified quality. We also offer manufacturer-backed warranties that remove uncertainty about hidden issues. These aren’t generic third-party warranties – they’re OEM warranties backed by authorized agencies, the same coverage you’d get with a new car purchase.
On top of this, we introduced a global-first initiative called “Drive Now, Buy Later.” This gives customers up to four weeks to take the car home, use it in their daily life, and only make the purchase once they are completely confident. Finally, our after-sales support includes service partnerships and a dedicated customer care line, ensuring peace of mind long after the car has been purchased.
By addressing every concern head-on, Cariva has created a new benchmark for trust in the pre-owned market.
With more millennials and Gen Z buyers entering the car market, do you notice a shift in how they approach buying used cars compared to traditional buyers?
Yes, there has been a significant shift. Millennials and Gen Z buyers think very differently about mobility. They are digital-first, which means they do most of their research online before they ever step into a showroom. They want transparency, easy access to information, and digital tools that help them make better decisions.
They also value experience over ownership. Many of them prefer to try before buying, which is why our Drive Now, Buy Later program has resonated so strongly. At the same time, they are far more conscious of sustainability and value. For them, pre-owned cars are not only cost-effective but also a more environmentally responsible choice compared to buying new.
Cariva is designed with these shifts in mind. Our platform is digital, transparent, and flexible, which makes it perfectly aligned with the expectations of this new generation of buyers. Whether they’re looking for their first budget-friendly car or upgrading to a premium model, our diverse inventory caters to every financial bracket without compromising on quality or trust.

The UAE used car market is experiencing strong growth, driven by rising demand for affordable mobility and certified pre-owned cars. How do you see this market evolving in the next 3–5 years?
The UAE used car market is undergoing a major transformation. It is moving away from fragmented, informal sales toward a structured and customer-focused ecosystem.
Over the next three to five years, certified pre-owned cars will become the standard rather than the exception. We will also see the digitization of the entire buying journey, from virtual car tours to online financing and even doorstep delivery. In addition, value-added services such as extended warranties, flexible return policies, and bundled insurance will become key factors in customer decision-making.
Cariva is already ahead of this curve. By offering certification, flexible ownership models, warranties, and digital convenience all under one roof, we are not just keeping pace with the market but shaping its future direction.
With the UAE accelerating its shift towards electric mobility, what opportunities do you see emerging in the pre-owned EV market, and how is CARIVA preparing to tap into this space?
Electric vehicles are central to the UAE’s sustainability vision, and with that comes a huge opportunity in the pre-owned EV market. Today, many customers are hesitant because of concerns about battery life, resale value, and the lack of proper certification standards.
Cariva is preparing to address these gaps head-on. We are partnering with specialized diagnostic providers to certify battery health and performance. We are developing EV-specific warranties and buyback programs that give customers confidence in their purchase. At the same time, we are creating awareness campaigns to educate buyers about the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits of EV ownership.
By building these solutions early, Cariva is positioning itself as a trusted pioneer in pre-owned electric mobility, fully aligned with the UAE’s national sustainability agenda.
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