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Dongfeng Outlines Its Strategy for Growth in the UAE Automotive Market

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A front-three-quarter shot of a DongFeng Shine driven on the road.

Exclusive Interview with Saj Jabbar, General Manager, M.A.H.Y. Khoory Automotive Dubai, UAE

What are some specific consumer trends in the UAE that you believe will shape the future of Dongfeng’s presence in the region?

Saj Jabbar, General Manager, M.A.H.Y. Khoory Automotive Dubai, UAE

The UAE automotive market is highly dynamic, with several key trends shaping its future. A major trend is the growing demand for affordable, feature-packed vehicles that offer a balance of quality and performance. Consumers expect vehicles to integrate advanced technologies such as driver-assistance systems, smart connectivity, and infotainment, all while maintaining competitive pricing. Additionally, sustainability is taking centre stage as the UAE government ramps up initiatives such as the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, heightening consumer interest in hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs). This shift provides Dongfeng and other brands in the MKA portfolio opportunities to lead the way in the transition toward greener mobility. Another significant trend is the preference for SUVs and crossovers, which dominate the market due to their practicality and versatility. We see this as a critical area for growth in the coming years.

A front-three-quarter shot of a DongFeng AX7

How involved is Dongfeng in localising its offerings for the UAE market, and what role does M.A.H.Y. Khoory play in this process?

Localisation is essential for success in the UAE automotive market, and Dongfeng has demonstrated a strong commitment to this process. As the sole distributor of Dongfeng vehicles in the UAE, MKA plays a pivotal role in tailoring Dongfeng’s offerings to meet the unique needs of UAE consumers. This involves ensuring that Dongfeng vehicles are optimised for the region’s harsh climate. We also collaborate closely with Dongfeng to provide market-specific configurations and features tailored for local buyers. Our partnership extends beyond product localisation; we recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art service centre in Dubai, with plans to expand our service network across the emirates. This ensures comprehensive aftersales support, which is a cornerstone of our approach to building long-term customer trust and loyalty.

Given the UAE’s competitive automotive market, what strategies are you employing to build consumer trust in a relatively new brand?

Establishing consumer trust is critical for us at MKA, especially as we expand our presence in a competitive market. Our strategy is built around three key pillars: product excellence, aftersales support, and strategic partnerships. We ensure that Dongfeng vehicles meet the highest international standards, offering advanced technology and competitive pricing. We have strengthened aftersales service, starting with the inauguration of our new Dubai service centre. We’re committed to providing seamless maintenance, transparent pricing, extended warranties, and access to genuine spare parts. Our partnership with One by One Car Rental to deliver 1,000 Dongfeng vehicles underscores our ability to meet the needs of both individual buyers and corporate customers. These collaborations enhance Dongfeng’s reputation in the UAE. Finally, we leverage targeted marketing campaigns and digital platforms to raise awareness about Dongfeng’s legacy as one of China’s leading automotive brands.

A front-three-quarter shot of a DongFeng Mage.

How do you see the UAE automotive market evolving over the next five years, particularly with the growing prominence of Chinese automakers?

The UAE automotive market is entering a transformative phase, driven by three key factors. First, the increasing prominence of Chinese automakers is reshaping the competitive landscape. Brands like Dongfeng are setting new benchmarks by offering high-quality vehicles at competitive prices. Second, the shift toward sustainability and EV adoption will accelerate, driven by government initiatives. Chinese automakers, with their advanced EV technologies, are well-positioned to lead this transition. At MKA, we see this as a significant growth opportunity and are actively preparing to introduce a broader range of EVs into our portfolio. Lastly, digitalisation will redefine how consumers interact with automotive brands. The UAE market will demand more innovative and tech-driven solutions.

How does Dongfeng Motor plan to position itself in the growing electric vehicle (EV) market in the UAE and the Middle East?

Dongfeng is at the forefront of EV innovation, and its entry into the UAE’s growing EV market is a significant milestone. As one of China’s leaders in EV development, Dongfeng is bringing advanced electric and hybrid models to the region. Our strategy revolves around product excellence, infrastructure support, and partnerships. We are introducing EVs that combine exceptional range, innovative design, and affordability. On the infrastructure front, MKA is actively engaging with stakeholders to support the development of a robust charging network.

Automotive

VOYAH Free Brings Premium Luxury EREV Design to the Emirates

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A front-angle action shot of two VOYAH FREE SUVs driven parallelly on a scenic road

VOYAH has entered the UAE with a clear ambition: to redefine modern mobility for the Emirates. Distributed exclusively by Performance Plus Motors, a homegrown mobility enabler founded in 2021, the brand brings together premium design, advanced technology and sustainable performance. More than a new automotive marque, VOYAH UAE positions itself as both a luxury EV player and a sustainability partner, aligning closely with the UAE’s vision for smart, technology-driven progress.

The brand’s design philosophy is shaped by cultural heritage and harmony with nature. At its heart lies the Kunpeng, a mythical creature from Daoist tradition that symbolises limitless ambition and the pursuit of greatness. This inspiration is reflected in VOYAH’s winged logo and in the flowing light signatures across its vehicles. The result is a design language that blends elegance, balance and innovation, uniting craftsmanship with advanced technology to create a holistic identity for the UAE market.

A front-three-quarter shot of a VOYAH FREE driven offroad through shallow waters.

Leading the charge is the VOYAH Free, an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) that embodies the promise of sustainable luxury. With a pure electric range tailored for daily commutes, the Free engages a compact petrol engine only when needed to recharge the battery on longer journeys. Drivers, therefore, enjoy the benefits of electric mobility without being restricted by charging availability, a particularly relevant solution in the Emirates, where infrastructure is developing. By delivering electric-first performance with the reassurance of extended range, the Free removes barriers to adoption and supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, including the national target for half of all vehicles on the road to be hybrid or electric by mid-century.

Inside, the Free offers a distinctly premium experience. Its cabin features sustainable materials and a tri-screen digital cockpit that pairs next-generation technology with refined design. The spacious layout creates first-class comfort, ensuring that every journey feels both immersive and elegant. Ownership is enhanced with complimentary 1-year car insurance, registration, tinting, and a home wall box charger with installation. Confidence continues long term through 5 years or 100,000 km vehicle warranty, 8 years or 150,000 km battery warranty and 3 years or 60,000 km service contract. Combined with expert after-sales care and customer education, these measures provide an ownership experience that is seamless and reassuring.

An interior shot of the front cabin of a VOYAH FREE SUV

VOYAH UAE also seeks to inspire a wider shift towards sustainability in everyday life. Each Free model contributes to reducing transport-related emissions and encourages greener choices among consumers. Intelligent battery management, AI-enabled mobility, advanced safety systems and seamless connectivity all demonstrate how innovation, luxury and responsibility can progress together.

Through the Free model, VOYAH UAE and Performance Plus Motors are introducing more than a car to the Emirates – they are setting new standards for premium mobility. By combining cultural inspiration, extended-range electric innovation and uncompromising craftsmanship, VOYAH presents a vision that is both practical for today and transformative for the journeys of tomorrow.

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Metadome.ai launches AI Virtual Sales Assistant with Jameel Motors Egypt

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A rear-angle shot of an AI assistant visualized by AI

Metadome.ai, in collaboration with Jameel Motors Egypt, one of the country’s most prominent automotive distributors, has launched an AI-assisted virtual sales assistant designed to support the entire customer journey — both pre-sales and post-sales.

Jameel Motors, a key player in Egypt’s automotive market, brings decades of expertise in the mobility sector and a reputation for representing some of the world’s most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands. Its expansive sales and after-sales network position the company as a trusted name in delivering customer-centric innovation.

As a collaboration between two leading technology innovators, Jameel Motors Egypt is stepping into the future of customer engagement by bringing the power of AI to the showroom floor and beyond. Developed by Metadome.ai, the newly launched virtual assistant provides customers with round-the-clock, real-time support across all digital touchpoints. Whether learning about car models, comparing features, booking test drives, or tracking vehicle delivery, the assistant acts as a knowledgeable and responsive digital partner throughout the pre-sales experience.

More than just a sales tool, the assistant also supports post-sales services. Customers can authenticate themselves, book maintenance appointments, access previous service records, receive live maintenance updates, activate warranties, locate service centers, and request spare parts and accessories. It also delivers automated maintenance reminders and other services that’s helping streamline after-sales support while keeping customers fully informed and connected.

“At Metadome.ai, we’re driven by one simple idea—technology should feel intuitive, human, and helpful. That’s exactly what we aimed for with this product. By combining Jameel Motors deep automotive expertise with our conversational AI capabilities and tech backbone, we’ve created an experience that feels less like a bot—and more like a knowledgeable, always-available assistant,” said Shorya Mahajan, Co-founder and COO of Metadome.ai

The assistant is already live at select Jameel Motors digital touchpoints, with early feedback indicating stronger online engagement, faster response cycles, and increased customer satisfaction.

Tarek Abdullatif, Regional Director Jameel Motors Egypt, stated: “We’ve seen firsthand how digital tools can transform industries. This assistant is more than a chatbot it’s a smart, responsive designed to meet the needs of today’s connected customer.”

He added, “In the coming months, the virtual assistant solution will roll out across Jameel Motors entire network, in Egypt as part of the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric service.

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Automotive

INEOS AUTOMOTIVE ACCELERATES IN THE MIDDLE EAST WITH 1,000TH VEHICLE DELIVERED AND MAJOR REGIONAL EXPANSION

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A front three-quarter shot of an INEOS Grenadier parked outdoors.

INEOS Automotive has hit a major milestone in the Middle East, delivering its 1,000th Grenadier 4X4 – just over two years after launching in the region. The rugged British-designed off-roader has quickly gained traction with adventurers, professionals, and off-road enthusiasts alike.

REGIONAL INVESTMENT AND EXPANSION

Executive Headshot of Dan Balmer - Head of Region - INEOS Automotive
Dan Balmer, Head of Region, INEOS Automotive

Building on its fast-growing global footprint, INEOS Automotive is making a bold move and expanding operations across the Middle East and Africa. Leading this next chapter is the newly appointed Head of Region, Dan Balmer – a highly accomplished executive with a CV that spans top roles at BMW, Aston Martin, Lotus, and Rolls-Royce.

Balmer will be based in INEOS Automotive’s brand-new regional headquarters in the Arenco Tower in Dubai’s Media City, where a growing team – including relocated staff from the UK – will drive sales, marketing, aftersales, and the dealer network.

With a strong existing footprint across six countries and seven dealer sites, the company is now gearing up to expand further across the GCC and break into new Middle Eastern and African markets. “The 1,000th Grenadier delivery signifies that drivers across the region are embracing what we’ve built,” said Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive. “We’re backing that enthusiasm with serious investment: a new regional HQ, a growing team, and an exciting leader in Dan Balmer, who’s ready to take things to the next level.”

INDUSTRY HEAVYWEIGHT AT THE HELM

Newly appointed regional chief, Dan Balmer, brings deep global expertise and local insight to the role. Having previously led teams in major markets for some of the world’s most prestigious automotive brands, he’s now focused on growing INEOS Automotive’s presence and partnerships throughout the region.

“Hitting this milestone delivery is just the beginning,” said Balmer. “The Middle East and Africa offer huge potential, and I’m thrilled to lead our efforts here – from expanding into new markets to delivering exceptional customer experiences.”

Balmer started his automotive career as an apprentice design technician, and progressed through the ranks at BMW and Rolls-Royce. His first regional leadership appointment was as General Manager Asia Pacific for Rolls-Royce from 2012. Joining Aston Martin in 2014, Balmer led several regional offices, latterly as President of UK, Middle East & Africa. And at Lotus from 2021, he saw success as President and CEO of Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and most recently held the position of President and CEO of Lotus Cars Europe.

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