Middle East & Africa Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Market Outlook, 2029

Middle East & Africa Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Market Outlook, 2029

In the MEA region, there is a preference for larger SUVs with robust designs, powerful engines, and spacious interiors. This preference is driven by factors such as the region's diverse terrain, cultural preferences for larger vehicles, and the need for vehicles capable of handling challenging road conditions. In certain parts of the MEA region, there is a demand for armoured SUVs among government officials, security personnel, and high-profile individuals. Armoured SUVs provide enhanced protection against security threats and are often customised with bulletproof glass, reinforced body panels, and other security features. From the sprawling cities of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to the rugged landscapes of sub-Saharan Africa, SUVs have become a ubiquitous sight on roads across the region. The MEA market is distinguished by a preference for larger SUVs with robust designs, powerful engines, and spacious interiors, reflecting the region's affinity for vehicles that exude strength, prestige, and luxury. SUVs from renowned brands like Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW dominate the market, catering to affluent consumers who value status and exclusivity. Additionally, there is a growing demand for SUVs with off-road capabilities, driven by the region's diverse terrain and desert landscapes. Government support for SUV production, particularly in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, has further fueled the growth of the market, leading to the establishment of local manufacturing facilities and investment in automotive infrastructure. Moreover, the adoption of electric and hybrid SUVs is on the rise as governments in the region seek to promote sustainable mobility solutions and reduce carbon emissions. In essence, the MEA SUV market represents a vibrant and dynamic sector of the automotive industry, shaped by cultural preferences, economic factors, and technological advancements, with ample opportunities for growth and innovation in the years to come.

According to the research report, “Middle East and Africa SUV Market Outlook, 2029,” published by Bonafide Research, the Middle East and Africa SUV market is anticipated to grow with more than 5% CAGR from 2024–2029. The diverse and often rugged terrain of the MEA region, including deserts, mountains, and unpaved roads, creates a need for vehicles that can handle a variety of road conditions. SUVs, with their higher ground clearance, robust construction, and four-wheel-drive capabilities, are well-suited for navigating challenging terrain, making them popular choices among consumers. SUVs hold cultural significance in the MEA region, symbolising prosperity, success, and social status. Owning an SUV is often seen as a symbol of achievement and affluence, reflecting one's wealth, social standing, and lifestyle. Luxury SUVs, in particular, are highly prized for their opulent features and prestigious brand names. The hot and arid climate of the MEA region influences consumer preferences for vehicles that offer comfort and convenience in extreme weather conditions. SUVs with advanced climate control systems, sunroof options, and durable materials are favored by consumers seeking relief from the harsh climate and desert heat. Rapid urbanisation and infrastructure development in many parts of the MEA region have led to increased demand for SUVs as urban commuters seek vehicles that offer comfort, safety, and convenience in congested city streets. SUVs provide a commanding view of the road, ample storage space, and a sense of security in crowded urban environments.

Market Drivers
• Terrain and Road Conditions: The rugged terrain and diverse landscapes of the MEA region drive the demand for SUVs with off-road capabilities. Consumers in rural areas and desert regions prioritise vehicles that can navigate challenging terrain, including sand dunes, rocky surfaces, and unpaved roads. SUVs with features such as four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and advanced traction control systems are particularly popular in these areas.
• Cultural Preferences: Cultural factors play a significant role in driving the demand for SUVs in the MEA region. SUVs are often perceived as symbols of prestige, success, and social status, making them desirable vehicles for consumers who seek to showcase their wealth and lifestyle. Luxury SUVs from prestigious brands are especially sought after by affluent consumers who value luxury, comfort, and exclusivity.

Market Challenges
• Economic Uncertainty: Economic instability and fluctuations in oil prices can impact consumer purchasing power and overall demand for SUVs in the MEA region. Economic downturns, currency devaluation, and political unrest can lead to reduced consumer confidence and discretionary spending, affecting sales of SUVs, especially luxury models.
• Infrastructure Limitations: In some parts of the MEA region, inadequate infrastructure, including poorly maintained roads, limited access to fuel stations, and insufficient charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, can pose challenges for SUV owners. These infrastructure limitations can impact the usability and convenience of SUVs, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Market Opportunity
• Off-Road Tourism: The MEA region's diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and coastal regions, attract off-road enthusiasts and adventure tourists seeking outdoor experiences. SUV manufacturers can capitalise on the growing trend of off-road tourism by offering rugged and capable vehicles designed for off-road adventures, catering to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
• Electric Vehicle Adoption: The increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles in the MEA region presents opportunities for SUV manufacturers to introduce electric SUV models and capitalise on the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions. Government support, investment in charging infrastructure, and consumer awareness of environmental issues drive the transition towards electric vehicles, creating opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and differentiate their offerings in the market.

Based on the types, they are bifurcated into small, compact, mid-size, large, and MPV/MUV. Furthermore, in terms of seating capacity, they are segmented into five-seaters and more than 5 seater.

In the Middle East and Africa Large SUVs contribute to the market. Large cars with plenty of room for both people and freight are preferred in the MEA area. Big SUVs are well-liked by buyers who value size and space because they have roomy interiors, cosy seating layouts, and a large load capacity. Large SUVs are known for their versatility and capability to handle a variety of driving conditions, including rugged terrain, desert landscapes, and urban environments. These vehicles offer robust construction, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems, making them well-suited for off-road adventures and challenging road conditions prevalent in the MEA region. Large SUVs are often associated with prestige, luxury, and social status in the MEA region. Owning a large SUV from a prestigious brand such as Range Rover, Cadillac, or Lexus signifies wealth, success, and social standing, appealing to affluent consumers who value luxury and exclusivity. Large SUVs are often used for towing trailers, boats, and recreational vehicles in the MEA region, where outdoor activities such as camping, boating, and off-roading are popular. These vehicles offer high towing and hauling capacities, allowing consumers to transport heavy loads with ease and convenience. Furthermore, in the MEA region, 5-seater SUVs lead the market. 5-seater SUVs offer a balance between spaciousness and manoeuvrability, making them ideal for families. They provide ample seating for a typical family while maintaining a manageable size for urban driving and parking, which is particularly important in densely populated cities. Many consumers in the MEA region live in urban areas where space is limited and traffic congestion is common. 5-seater SUVs offer a practical solution for urban commuting, providing enough seating for family members while remaining agile enough to navigate through crowded streets and parking lots with ease.

According to the propulsion, they are segmented into petrol, diesel, electric, and others.

In the Middle East and Africa, petrol leads the market. Petrol is the most widely available fuel in the MEA region, with a vast network of petrol stations spanning urban centres and remote areas. This extensive infrastructure makes gasoline-powered vehicles, including SUVs, more accessible and convenient for consumers across the region. Petrol is often more affordable than diesel or alternative fuel options in many parts of the MEA region. Lower fuel prices, combined with the typically lower upfront cost of petrol-powered vehicles compared to diesel or hybrid models, make petrol SUVs a more cost-effective choice for consumers, especially in countries where fuel subsidies are common. In some parts of the MEA region, there is a cultural preference for petrol-powered vehicles due to perceptions of petrol as a cleaner and more refined fuel compared to diesel. Petrol engines are also associated with prestige and performance, aligning with cultural values of status and luxury in certain segments of the market. Petrol engines generally require less complex maintenance compared to diesel engines, making petrol-powered SUVs more appealing to consumers who prioritise ease of maintenance and ownership. Petrol engines typically have simpler emission control systems and do not require specialised maintenance procedures or additives like diesel engines.

Based on the report, the major countries covered include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the rest of the Middle East and Africa.

In the region, the UAE significantly contributes to the market. With a high GDP per capita and a sizable number of affluent citizens, the United Arab Emirates is one of the richest nations in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Because of their ability to buy luxury SUVs and high-end models from premium brands, consumers in the UAE are able to increase the overall volume and income of the SUV market. The UAE has experienced rapid urbanisation and infrastructure development, particularly in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The modern infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, highways, and urban developments, creates a conducive environment for SUV ownership. Consumers in the UAE often prefer SUVs for their versatility, comfort, and safety features, making them popular choices for urban commuting and family transportation. The UAE is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. Tourists often rent SUVs to explore the country's diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and coastlines. The rental car market, driven by tourism and hospitality, contributes to the overall demand for SUVs in the UAE. The UAE government implements policies and initiatives to support the automotive industry and encourage vehicle ownership. These include tax incentives, favourable financing options, and subsidies for electric and hybrid vehicles. Government support for SUVs, combined with consumer preferences for larger vehicles, contributes to the growth of the SUV market in the UAE.

The competitive landscape for the SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) industry is dynamic and intense, characterized by a diverse range of manufacturers vying for market share. Key players, both traditional automakers and newer entrants, compete in various segments to cater to the diverse preferences and needs of consumers. Traditional automotive giants, such as Toyota, Ford, Honda, General Motors, and Volkswagen, have a significant presence in the SUV market. These companies leverage their experience, global reach, and established brand equity to offer a wide range of SUV models, spanning from compact crossovers to full-size SUVs. Established automakers often have the resources for extensive research and development, allowing them to incorporate advanced technologies and design innovations into their SUV offerings. Luxury automakers, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Lexus, contribute to the competitive landscape by offering high-end SUV models. The luxury SUV segment has seen substantial growth as consumers increasingly seek vehicles that combine opulence with the versatility of SUVs. These manufacturers emphasize premium features, cutting-edge technology, and sophisticated design to differentiate their offerings in the market. The rise of electric SUVs has attracted new entrants and disruptors to the industry. Companies like Tesla have gained attention for their electric SUV models, such as the Tesla Model X. The shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly transportation has opened opportunities for emerging players to challenge traditional automakers and establish themselves in the market.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• SUV market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Small
• Compact
• Mid-Size
• Large
• MPV/MUV

By Seating Capacity
• 5 seater
• >5 seater

By Propulsion
• Petrol
• Diesel
• Electric
• Others

By Electric Propulsion
• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)
• Others (HEV, FCEV)

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the UAE industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.***Please Note: It will take 48 hours (2 Business days) for delivery of the report upon order confirmation.