World’s biggest car trade hub launched in Dubai

Dubai: UAE will soon see Dubai take a major step toward becoming the world’s top destination for car buyers, traders and manufacturers, with the official launch of a 22-million-sq-ft Auto Market designed to transform the region’s automotive landscape.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, presided over the launch of the Dubai Auto Market development project, a major initiative to transform the emirate into the world’s largest and most advanced automotive trading hub. The launch follows directives from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to elevate the market into a global centre for vehicle trade, logistics, and industry services.

During the event, Sheikh Maktoum unveiled the project’s new visual brand identity and reviewed plans for the 22-million-sq-ft development. DP World has been appointed to lead the project, drawing on its global logistics footprint and established role in managing automotive supply chains.

Global automotive hub

Sheikh Maktoum said: “Under the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai continues to solidify its status as one of the world's leading economic and commercial centres.

“The Dubai Auto Market reflects this ambitious vision and is a significant addition that will reinforce Dubai's position among the world’s most prominent and rapidly growing automotive trade hubs, leveraging an advanced infrastructure and a global logistics network, managed by DP World, that spans continents.”

He added: “The Dubai Auto Market is conceived as an all-in-one destination; a global hub for automotive enthusiasts and investors alike. Its state-of-the-art facilities are designed to accommodate expansive showrooms and warehouses, host major international conferences and events and foster a cluster of light industries for vehicle assembly and trade.”

Handle 800,000 vehicles

Once complete, the Dubai Auto Market will host more than 1,500 showrooms, cluster-based workshop zones, warehouses, multi-storey parking, an auction house, a convention centre, hospitality offerings, and retail and F&B spaces. The hub is designed to handle over 800,000 vehicles per year, positioning it as one of the world’s largest automotive trade platforms.

The launch event at Jumeirah Emirates Towers brought together senior government and industry figures, including Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation; and Dr. Abdullah Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs.

“New chapter for sector”

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “Dubai Auto Market represents a significant milestone in our mission to position Dubai as a global trade leader. Our new market will leverage DP World’s expansive global network, automotive supply chain expertise and world-class Ro-Ro capabilities at Jebel Ali Port to enhance regional trade and drive Dubai’s ongoing economic growth.”

Abdulla bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC, said: “Dubai Auto Market will be a one-stop destination for all automotive needs. Our goal is to establish a comprehensive ecosystem with world-class infrastructure and a wide range of service offerings that will set new benchmarks in the sector.”

Key link for global car trade

The new market will feature exhibition zones, specialised event areas and integrated services, including customs facilities, accommodation and entertainment. It will support trade in new and used electric, hybrid and conventional vehicles, linking exporters with key markets across Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Demand indicators show strong growth ahead, with UAE passenger car sales and re-exports expected to nearly double by 2030. With DP World’s network of 77 ports and 15 automotive transshipment hubs—handling 10% of global automotive trade—the Dubai Auto Market aims to double its current sales of Dh6.8 billion.

Strategic partnership

The initiative builds on Dubai’s established role as the Gulf’s leading automotive trading hub, anchored by Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), home to more than 940 automotive and spare-parts companies, including major global manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Volkswagen and Volvo.

As part of the rollout, Dubai Municipality signed a partnership agreement with DP World's Economic Zones sector to oversee the establishment and management of the Dubai Auto Market. The agreement enhances cooperation to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global centre for innovation and automotive trade.