63% of UAE residents planning new car purchase within three years – YouGov – Arabian Business
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Strong purchase intent and rising interest in electric and hybrid vehicles are reshaping consumer behaviour, with Chinese brands leading awareness and value perceptions
Nearly two-thirds of UAE residents expect to buy a new car within the next three years, with almost one in three (29 per cent) planning to do so within the next 12 months, according to Next-Gen Automakers UAE 2025, a new report by YouGov.
The findings highlight the UAE’s vibrant automotive market, underpinned by growing consumer confidence, shifting preferences towards electric and hybrid models, and a surge in awareness of emerging international brands.
The study, based on responses from over 950 UAE adults between 17 September and 10 October 2025, reveals that 63 per cent of residents are considering a car purchase, with demand strongest among men (73 per cent) and parents of children under 18 (54 per cent).
Younger consumers aged 25–44 account for the majority of near-term buyers, signalling a strong appetite among middle-income professionals and families.
Awareness of new or emerging car manufacturers is widespread, with 76 per cent of respondents able to name at least one brand. Chinese automakers dominate recognition: Jetour leads with 42 per cent awareness, followed closely by BYD at 40 per cent.
Other brands gaining traction include Polestar (14 per cent) and Lucid Motors (12 per cent), while several newcomers such as XPeng, Zeekr and NIO are gradually entering public consciousness.
Among those planning to purchase a car within three years, openness to emerging brands rises sharply. Two-thirds (66 per cent) say they are likely to consider buying from a new or recently established automaker, a figure that climbs to 72 per cent among electric vehicle buyers and 74 per cent among those intending to purchase hybrids.
Chinese manufacturers are seen as the fastest-growing globally, cited by one in three UAE respondents, while Japan (18 per cent) and Germany (7 per cent) remain associated with quality and reliability. Japanese automakers continue to lead on perceived craftsmanship and value, though Chinese brands are increasingly recognised for innovation and affordability.
Safety features, technology, and warranty coverage are the main factors influencing purchase decisions, with 47 per cent of consumers prioritising vehicle safety and 39 per cnt citing advanced technology or long service plans. However, affordability remains a concern.
Nearly half (48 per cent) of those planning to buy within the next year identify cost as the biggest barrier, followed by worries about reliability and resale value.
YouGov’s findings suggest the UAE’s car market is entering a new growth phase, fuelled by strong consumer intent, rapid brand diversification, and rising enthusiasm for electric and hybrid vehicles that align with the nation’s sustainability goals.
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Kath Young is a reporter at Arabian Business. More by Kath Young
Kath Young is a reporter at Arabian Business.
