Interviews

As the UAE automotive market continues to evolve amid shifting global conditions, brands are increasingly focusing on long-term customer confidence, aftersales support, and network expansion. Chinese automaker Great Wall Motor has been steadily strengthening its presence in the UAE through a growing lineup of SUVs and pickups positioned around technology, value, and practicality.

In this interview with DriveArabia.com, Shiva Kumar, GWM Divisional Head at Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group, discusses GWM’s current position in the UAE market, the importance of aftersales and customer trust,

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As the UAE accelerates toward an electrified future, new-energy brands are entering the market with increasingly sophisticated strategies tailored to regional expectations. Among them is VOYAH, positioning itself as a premium player that blends electric innovation with long-distance practicality, a key consideration for UAE drivers.

DriveArabia sat down with Mohamed Elzawawy, General Manager of Performance Plus Motors, to discuss VOYAH’s growing lineup, the brand’s extended-range electric technology, and how its ownership model is being structured to build long-term customer confidence. From product strategy to aftersales support, the conversation sheds light on how VOYAH aims to establish itself as a serious contender in the UAE’s evolving premium mobility landscape.

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As Cadillac accelerates into a new era defined by electrification, technology, and evolving luxury expectations, the brand is placing renewed focus on how it connects with customers in the Middle East. From immersive brand experiences like the Cadillac Clubhouse to a rapidly expanding electric vehicle lineup, the marque is redefining what progressive luxury looks like in the region.

DriveArabia sat down with Jack Uppal, President and Managing Director for GM Africa and the Middle East, to discuss Cadillac’s future vision, its approach to balancing heritage with innovation, and how models like the ESCALADE IQ, LYRIQ-V,

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With the Tank 700 now making its mark across the Middle East, GWM is clearly stepping up its ambitions in one of the world’s most demanding automotive regions. From premium off-road capability and real-world desert performance to advanced hybrid technology and long-term brand building, the Chinese manufacturer is sharpening its focus on what regional customers truly want. We sat down with Sunny Bhat, Director of Sales and Marketing at GWM Middle East, to discuss the early response to the Tank 700, how customer feedback is shaping future products, the brand’s presence at the 2026 Liwa International Festival,

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For nearly six decades, Arabian Automobiles has played a defining role in shaping the UAE’s automotive landscape, growing alongside the nation and evolving with the needs of its drivers. Today, as the market enters a new phase driven by technology, diversification, and shifting customer expectations, the company continues to balance heritage with forward-thinking mobility.

In this exclusive DriveArabia interview, Hussam Baghdadi, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Arabian Automobiles at AW Rostamani Group, discusses how the company is strengthening its connection with the community, expanding its SUV portfolio with models such as the Nissan Patrol PRO-4X and Magnite,

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As Audi accelerates its global shift toward electrification, the Middle East remains a uniquely complex and opportunity-rich market. With customer preferences spanning combustion, hybrid, and fully electric models, the brand’s regional strategy demands a careful balance between innovation and tradition. In this exclusive interview, Jan Scheidgen, General Manager of Al Nabooda Automobiles, shares his vision for Audi’s evolution in the region, covering electrification, digital transformation, sustainability, and how Audi aims to reclaim leadership in the premium segment while staying true to its core philosophy of Vorsprung durch Technik.

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As SOUEAST officially entered the UAE market in 2025, the brand is positioning itself as a value-driven yet technology-focused contender in the country’s highly competitive SUV segment. With a growing lineup that includes petrol and plug-in hybrid models, along with a clear emphasis on modern design and advanced features, SOUEAST has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the region.

We spoke to Elie Nehme, Senior General Manager of SOUEAST UAE, to discuss the brand’s identity and long-term vision, the models most relevant to local buyers, the role of electrified mobility, and how SOUEAST plans to build a strong presence in a market dominated by established players.

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As Suzuki introduces the Jimny ART Edition exclusively for the UAE, DriveArabia speaks with Sacha Askidjian, General Manager of Al Rostamani Trading Company, to understand the thinking behind this locally inspired special edition. In this interview, Askidjian discusses how the ART Edition reflects UAE car culture, the evolving lifestyle of Jimny owners in the Emirates, and how community, creativity and heritage play a key role in Suzuki’s continued success in the region.

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As the Middle East’s SUV market continues to evolve, Stellantis is positioning Jeep for one of its strongest growth phases yet. With new models, renewed investment in regional testing, and a clearer focus on electrified mobility, the brand is doubling down on the Gulf’s unique demands and lifestyle-driven automotive culture. To understand what’s next for Jeep and Stellantis in the GCC, DriveArabia sat down with Rakesh Nair, Head of Brands for the Middle East & Africa Region. Rakesh has over 20+ years of experience in the automotive industry and has held senior positions with prominent brands. In this exclusive Q&A,

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As BYD continues to expand its presence in the UAE, the brand recently hosted the first-ever Super Hybrid Tech Day in the country — a milestone event that highlights its growing influence in the region’s fast-evolving electrified vehicle segment. The event showcased BYD’s latest advancements in hybrid and electric technology, including the groundbreaking DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform and the innovative Blade Battery.

To understand how these technologies fit into BYD’s broader vision for the UAE and beyond, DriveArabia sat down with Lucas Bellieud, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility, to discuss the brand’s priorities,

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