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GCC Automobile Industry
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GCC Automobile Industry
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Alpen Capital was awarded the “Best Research House” at the Banker Middle East
Industry Awards 2011, 2013, and 2014
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GCC Automobile Industry
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Table of Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................... 10
1.1 Scope of the Report ............................................................................................................... 10
1.2 Industry Outlook ..................................................................................................................... 10
1.3 Key Growth Drivers ................................................................................................................ 10
1.4 Key Challenges ...................................................................................................................... 11
1.5 Key Trends ............................................................................................................................ 11
2. THE GCC AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW .......................................................... 12
2.1 Automobile Demand in the GCC ............................................................................................. 12
2.2 Supply is Predominantly Import Driven ................................................................................... 21
3. THE GCC AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY OUTLOOK ............................................................ 25
3.1 Forecasting Methodology ....................................................................................................... 25
3.2 The GCC Automobile Industry Forecast ................................................................................. 25
3.3 Country-wise Market Size Forecast ........................................................................................ 27
4. GROWTH DRIVERS ......................................................................................................... 32
5. CHALLENGES ................................................................................................................. 38
6. TRENDS ........................................................................................................................... 42
7. MERGER AND ACQUISITION (M&A) ACTIVITIES .......................................................... 47
COUNTRY PROFILES...................................................................................................................... 48
COMPANY PROFILES ..................................................................................................................... 55
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GCC Automobile Industry
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Glossary
Vehicles in use: Includes all types of registered vehicles on the road.
Passenger cars: Motor vehicles, excluding motor cycles, intended for the carriage of
passengers and structured to seat not over nine persons (including the driver). Such
vehicles also include taxis, hired cars, and pick-ups or micro cars.
Commercial vehicles: Includes light commercial vehicles, heavy trucks, coaches, and
buses.
New Vehicle Sales: Number of passenger cars and commercial vehicles sold / registered
during a given period.
Motorization rate: Indicates the number of vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants. A high
motorization rate shows high level of economic development and quality of life, while on
the other hand increasing number of cars also implies burden on the environment in terms
of carbon emissions.
Re-exports: Export of imported goods to another country, either in the same condition or
after undergoing further processing / manufacture.
Grey imports: New or used vehicles imported legally from another country via channels
other than the authorized distributors.
Vehicles going off the road: Old vehicles that are scrapped after a certain period of time
due to wear and tear or as per country specific regulation.
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The UAE auto market is a continually evolving market and our challenge is to react quickly to
market demand, legislation, customer expectations etc. in a socially and financially responsible
way. From a legislative viewpoint we are seeing the impact of CAFÉ standards across the GCC,
including in those markets that have not implemented these standards, the impending arrival of


comply with the rules and maintain customer satisfaction
Graham Turner
Chief Executive Officer
Al Ghandi Auto Group, UAE
Our guesstimate is that GCC markets
are down between 30% & 40% for 2016 YTD September. Low oil prices, regional conflicts and
relatively higher cost of financing compared to advanced economies are some reasons for the
slowdown. Global outlook too is subdued and GCC is not insulated from the spillover effects
from China, Brexit, etc. all of which affects the market sentiments and negatively impacts
consumption. Short term would be to do with corrections, re-balancing and diversification with
focus on non-oil sector of the economy to yield sustainable growth in medium to long term.
There is excess inventory consequently supply far exceeds demand, hence retail prices are
under pressure that is seriously hurting margins and operational profitability. One is likely to see
this trend continue for most of 2017. We expect recovery to start by Q4 2017, by which time
supply and demand are more or less in balance, provided there are no unforeseen shocks and
oil prices stabilize at an acceptable level and are less prone to fluctuations. Introduction of VAT
and its impact is still not clearly known, hence that too needs to be considered. Another vital
element is the cash flow or liquidity in the economy. SME segment has been affected and
repayment of term loans are disturbed which has given rise to disruptions in the cash flow which
eventually affects consumption.
As stated above, ideally, demand should lead supply and this would happen once the excess
inventory is cleared. Therefore, factors that will enable clearance of excess inventory will aid
growth. From a macro- economic perspective, progressively over the medium to long term one
would expect higher levels of capital investment or public spending that would boost economic
growth downstream leading to higher levels of employment, income and spending. In the short
term, measures that will enable liquidation of excess inventory would be the key. Hence, tactical
support from manufacturers to withstand transaction price pressures is key. Alongside

K. Rajaram
Chief Executive officer
Al Nabooda Automobiles LLC, UAE
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GCC Automobile Industry
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During 2016 global and regional economic cues had an impact on automobile sales, however
the overall market is already showing a positive sentiment, with improving customer satisfaction
and consolidating market share being the focus of many business activities. This is expected to
increase further as we move into 2017. Together with the build-up to Expo 2020 the demand for
vehicles, particularly in the commercial segment, is likely to gain greater momentum
The automobile sector is not isolated from the overall economic cycles, which is evident from
the number of attractive and innovative sales offers available in the market; this is strengthening
consumer optimism and business activity.
Recent trends in the automotive sector include moving towards greener technologies, driverless
cars and technological innovations in powering cars. The UAE has always been in the forefront
of adopting new technologies and we expect this to continue in the year ahead.
Ashok Khanna
Chief Executive Officer
Al Tayer Motors, UAE
While there has been a slowdown in vehicle sales this year in the UAE, we observed that the
drop in the domestic automotive market in UAE has not been as dramatic as we had previously
expected. The domestic automotive demand in the UAE is expected to pick up marginally as we

sold, if this demand holds up we expect the UAE automotive market to end at approximately
320,000 units sold, which is almost what the sector witnessed in 2013. Looking ahead, growth is
expected in 2017 as the industry is predicted to perform better than the current year.
From January to September 2016, the GCC automotive market witnessed a 20% drop.
However, when it comes to the companies operating in the automotive market in the UAE you
will notice a variation in the impact of the market situation on their businesses; while 70% were
negatively impacted by the drop in the market, 20% saw minimal effect and the remaining 10%
were not affected. Despite the overall slowdown in sales of vehicles in UAE this year, the impact
on the premium automotive segment has been much less when compared to the overall Total
Industry Volume (TIV) drop. The UAE continues to be the leading luxury market in the GCC and
the demand is expected to hold up through the rest of 2016, accounting for approximately
55,000 units by the end of the year.
Another point to note here is the diversification of the luxury model segment. In prior years,
luxury vehicles were available only in the high-end vehicles segment and the SUV segment.
Today, various luxury vehicle variants span across all vehicle segments, leading to increased
sales of luxury vehicles across the market. In 2015, the SUV segment witnessed a growth rate
of 5.6% as compared to the passenger car segment that grew by 0.8% ¬indicating that
consumers are demonstrating an increasing inclination to purchase SUVs and thereby
enhancing the potential of this segment.
While the industry is overcoming challenges like the oil price fluctuations, socio political
environment, consumer sentiment, and financing, there are factors like government spending
and infrastructure investments that are driving the growth of the sector. In spite of the current
market sentiment, I see automotive dealers investing more in their own infrastructure in order to
enhance the overall experience for customers. Governments in general need to increase their
spending and investment in projects that will result in an increase in the prosperity for citizens.
As an example, the UAE has dedicated a budget of approximately AED 48 Billion a year to
implement projects that will contribute to the welfare of its citizen. The Expo 2020 for Dubai and
other government projects have been set to contribute to the diversification of the economy
Some of the upcoming trends like digital/online customer purchase behavior, introduction of
electric vehicles, new technologies and business models and consumer friendly government
regulations play a significant role in shaping the future of the automobile industry in the region.
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GCC Automobile Industry
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With the rapid evolution of the automobile industry, we feel that the adoption of new business
models will play a more significant role. New technologies that support the inception of
autonomous vehicles in the future are already being implemented in a phased manner which is

by 2030. The traditional systems and mechanics in cars cannot further guarantee an increase in
market share. This is the reason why we see more disruptive technologies being integrated into
automobiles, transforming them into hybrid or fully electric vehicles. UAE is the first country in
the region to have electric vehicles promoting su
City Initiative and for the year 2020, the number of electric vehicles on UAE roads is expected to
be approximately 10,000.
All in all, I think 2016 has led to a lot of innovative solutions within the automotive retail model,
and really look forward to 2017 and what it has to offer
Michel Ayat
Chief Executive officer
Arabian Automobiles Company – AW Rostamani Group, UAE
The GCC Automobile sector in the immediate short term will follow similar trend as 2016
especially with respect to sales. The challenges like economic slowdown, job stability due to
change in labour laws, too much dependence on oil are impacting the sector. However, the
industry players are coping up with the downturn with promotional activities and newer financing
options like PCP (Personal Contract plan) that has grown increasingly popular in recent times.
The downturn is not only affecting the new sales but also the pre-owned sales market. With
government support, newer investments, technological innovations and infrastructure projects
lined up, the automobile sector will overcome the challenges in the long term.
Hussain A.M Shirazi
Deputy Executive Director
Behbehani Brothers W.L.L., Bahrain
             
slowdown and fluctuating oil prices. Just like other sectors, the Automobile sector in the GCC
saw a dip in sales in 2016 and we expect a minor recovery in the coming year. Qatar's
population is dominated by a big number of expatriates and the fact that they come into the
region for a limited amount of time, plays a major role in their decision making process. A car is
perhaps the single largest purchase for any expatriate in the country and the overall economic
slowdown and restructuring in government institutions have forced people to reconsider their
decision to buy vehicles. A number of buyers are considering renting/leasing a car rather than
owning one. As a result, we also see more interest from car rental companies to increase their
fleet of vehicles. The culture of Uber and the likes have also changed the way people look at
owning a car. Overall the auto industry is forced to transform and is becoming more
sophisticated. The slow-down is not just in the new car sales market but even more so in the
used car market, which makes it challenging for a buyer to sell the car subsequently and this
acts as a demotivation to buy a car.
We expect that the environmental regulations like Saudi Arabia introducing fuel economy
standards based on the US Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE), will change the
consumer buying pattern which will impact the sales going forward.
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GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Having said that, factors like government spending, new infrastructure projects as we approach
the FIFA 2022 world cup are drivers that will help in recovery of the sector. Demand for
commercial vehicles will also see some positive impact as companies have started outsourcing
more of their support functions and we believe that we will witness a significant rebound by the
et more than a

Mohamed J. Jaidah
Group Executive Director
Jaidah Group, Qatar
          
 The sector is most likely to set
for a flat growth during year 2017 followed by a single digit growth in 2018. Last quarter of 2018
should see growth picking up connected to Expo 2020 event in UAE and World Cup FIFA event
in Qatar and steps being initiated by other GCC countries. Higher oil revenues with the
expected average oil price stabilization this year should help with narrowing budget deficits and
reducing some of the liquidity strains in domestic banking systems that were evident in 2016
which should augur well going forward for the automotive industry.
               
 Saudi Arabia`s economy is facing the headwind of further tightening in fiscal policy in
Q4, including public sector wage cuts effective October 2016 which will likely further constrain
consumer spending for the coming period. Other challenges like generating volumes despite
possible introduction of CAFÉ standards and expansion of a robust public transport system and
also the introduction of VAT looms large. One of the most important factors working against
continuous growth of the sector are geographic constraints and pollution, motivating authorities
to limit the growth of car sales by restricting automotive ownership to people earning above a
certain level. To overcome these challenges, automotive companies need to create a coherent
strategy, define goals, build the brand and take a long term view. Continuous efforts to train the
automotive value
chain. Other factors like growing population with a high percentage of youth in it, efforts to set
up manufacturing plants could support the growth of the sector.
Consumer expectations are changing radically. We have seen technologies changing
dramatically from the advent of the connected car and enhanced driver support to better fuel
efficiency and new or improved power trains. We also notice a trend of high demand in the
luxury and super luxury segments as car purchase communicates social status. The intelligent
car is fast moving from the drawing board to the streets. Such autonomous cars will be a tough
sell in any market but traditional power trains and engines will likely dominate for at least the
next decade. A new trend is the mid-sized SUV. However, OEM`s are currently giving priority to
small cars segment for future hybrid and electric powered offerings
The economy is still liquid with strong reserves which will sustain growth under the present
market conditions for some time. Overall, economic diversification and the development of non-
oil sectors appear to be a higher priority and these measures should augur well for the sector.
Rimoun Hanouch
Group General Manager
Liberty Automobiles Co., UAE
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GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
The GCC automobile sector has always been one of the most dynamic and faster growing
sectors in the region. Despite a recent slowdown in demand for automobiles in the backdrop of
sluggish economic conditions, factors such as an expanding and well-heeled consumer base,
high urbanization rate, significant infrastructure developments, a bustling tourism industry,
aggressive promotional activities, attractive financing options, technological development, etc
will play a significant role in driving the growth of the sector in the long term. In addition to
coping up with the economic slowdown, the sector is facing challenges like shortage of skilled
workforce, grey imports, high competition and currency fluctuations. In wake of these
challenges, we anticipate the vehicles sales to remain subdued during 2016 and 2017 and pick
up thereafter especially in the UAE and Qatar as we approach events like World EXPO 2020
and FIFA World Cup 2022 respectively.
Overall, the industry is in the transition phase and continues to offer opportunities in the areas of
automotive manufacturing, aftermarket, and new technology development. Also, with limited
vehicle manufacturing activity in the GCC, the member countries continue to rely heavily on
imports to meet the demand of vehicles. The UAE, in particular, is the most vibrant automobile
trade markets in the region, within which the Emirate of Dubai acts as a major hub for trade.
Rohit Walia
Executive Chairman
Alpen Capital (ME) Limited
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GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
1. Executive Summary
The GCC, built on a heritage of abundant oil reserves and resultant inflow of petrodollars,
has a vibrant automotive market. Home to several foreign brands, the region is known for
its penchant for luxury sedans and sports utility vehicles (SUVs). Inherent growth drivers
such as an expanding and well-heeled consumer base, high urbanization rate, significant
infrastructure developments, and a bustling tourism industry are driving demand for
vehicles in the region. Despite a recent slowdown in demand for automobiles in the
backdrop of sluggish economic conditions, the region continues to offer immense
opportunities in the areas of automotive manufacturing, aftermarket, and new technology
development. With only a few local automobile players engaged in vehicle assembly
activities and others largely operating as traders and dealers, most of the vehicles and
related components in the GCC are imported. The member nations also conduct re-export
trade, with couple of them acting as automobile re-export hubs in the Middle East. This
has increased its appeal among the international business groups manifold.
1.1 Scope of the Report
This report provides a perspective of the GCC automobile sector by presenting the current
state of the industry, market dynamics, and scope for future growth. It covers the recent
trends, growth drivers, and challenges in the industry, along with an outlook until 2020.
Lastly, the report profiles some of the prominent automobile companies in the region.
1.2 Industry Outlook
Number of passenger cars in use in the GCC is expected to grow at a 5.0%
CAGR from an estimated 10.3 million in 2015 to 13.2 million in 2020. New
passenger car sales are projected at 1.4 million in 2020, compared to 1.2 million
in 2015. Although new sales are expected to decline in 2016 and remain under
pressure in 2017, they are likely to recover from 2018 as the economic
environment stabilizes and creates pent-up demand.
Between 2015 and 2020, passenger cars in use in the GCC countries are
anticipated to expand at annual average growth rates of 3.6%-5.4%. Saudi
Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait collectively are expected to continue holding more than
75% of the region‘s passenger car fleet in 2020.
New car sales in Saudi Arabia are likely to reach nearly 743,000 in 2020,
suggesting a CAGR of 2.0% from 2015. At the same time, new car sales in the
UAE are projected to grow at an annualized rate of 4.5% to over 267,000 in 2020.
1.3 Key Growth Drivers
The GCC population is expected to increase at a CAGR of 2.4% between 2015
and 2020. An expanding consumer base is likely to translate into higher demand
for new as well as used vehicles and related parts in the region.
Despite the projection of a decline in real GDP in 2016, it is forecasted to improve
and remain almost steady across the member nations during 2017-2020,
translating into increase in disposable income. The wealth of the affluent section
in the Middle East is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% during 2015-2025.
The cost of vehicle ownership in the GCC is lower compared to other countries
globally, due to a favorable tax structure. Additionally, attractive insurance and
financing options make it easier to own a car in the GCC.
Availability of fuel at affordable rates is a key demand driver for vehicle sales in
the GCC. Large proven crude oil reserves have enabled the member countries to
offer fuel at competitive rates.
Automobile dealers in the Gulf come up with several promotional activities to lure
car buyers during annual festivals / events. Such seasonal promotions would
continue to boost vehicle sales in the region.
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GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
A public transport system still under development phase in the GCC has
remained an important driver of vehicle sales. Increasing road congestions are a
testament to the dependency on motor vehicles in the region.
As of July 2016, infrastructure projects worth US$ 407.9 billion were in various
stages of construction in the GCC. Many projects are underway in the UAE and
Qatar ahead of their mega events of World Expo 2020 and FIFA World Cup 2022,
respectively. Such developments are likely to accelerate demand for vehicles.
Tourist arrivals in the GCC are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% during
2015-2020, thus stimulating demand for vehicles from car rental and travel firms.
1.4 Key Challenges
The persistent softness in oil prices has disrupted the largely oil-dependent GCC
economies and widened their fiscal deficits to an all-time high. The challenging
macro environment is adversely impacting automobile sales. Further, fuel price
reforms leading to an increase in prices of petrol is likely to affect demand.
Presence of several dealers makes the GCC automobile market highly
competitive, resulting in price sensitivity and low brand loyalty among consumers.
The Japanese Yen has appreciated nearly 16% against the US Dollar since the
beginning of this year. Being the largest source market for vehicle imports,
strengthening of Yen is likely to make imports costlier for the GCC countries.
Recall of vehicles owing to certain manufacturing issues has a negative influence
on the brand loyalty and reputation of automakers, thereby affecting sales.
Authorized car dealers in the UAE are facing the heat from grey imports, which in
certain cases affects the dealer‘s volumes by around 20%.
In the GCC automobile sector, government regulations such as the law of one
dealer per automobile manufacturer in the UAE act as barriers to entry.
A limited pool of local talent, alongside the increasing emphasis on nationalization
of jobs, is posing a challenge for the region‘s automobile industry.
The increased regulatory oversight on emissions, in view of rising environmental
concerns over global warming, is adding to the compliance and technology costs
for the automobile manufacturers, ultimately making the vehicles more expensive.
1.5 Key Trends
Presently there are a limited number of vehicle manufacturers in the GCC.
However, the situation is possibly going to change in the future, as Saudi Arabia,
UAE, and Oman are receiving investments to set up automotive production units.
Increasing number of vehicles coupled with hot climatic conditions and a rugged
terrain, which affects the lifespan of tires and batteries, has created a thriving
automotive aftermarket in the region.
While the Japanese brands of vehicles remain popular in the GCC and the high-
end market continues to be dominated by European makes, Chinese brands are
fast closing the gap.
The UAE is witnessing a growing trend of vehicle customization, as can be seen
by the growing number of car accessory outlets across the country.
Rising number of tech-savvy people and use of social media have encouraged
automobile dealers to establish online presence. Besides, internet combined with
new technologies is reforming the sector, with the advent of connected vehicles.
Mobile application-based taxi-hailing service providers are gaining presence in
the GCC. Uber, which entered the GCC market in 2013 by launching its services
in Dubai, has now grown its presence in other major cities in the region.
Although vehicle sales in the GCC have remained subdued during 2016 and will be under
pressure in 2017, the automobile sector is poised for growth in the coming years to 2020
as the region adds nearly 4 million potential buyers, reinstates economic growth, and
offers immense opportunities in the areas of automotive manufacturing, aftermarket, and
new technology development.
Page | 12
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
2. The GCC Automobile Industry Overview
The GCC automobile sector has been dynamic and one of the faster growing sectors in
the region, primarily owing to the growing population and high disposable income coupled
with significant infrastructure developments. Although the sector is likely to experience a
slowdown in the short-term due to the persistent weak economic conditions, the long-term
fundamentals remain strong. The region offers a myriad of opportunities given the
penchant of motorists to try different vehicles, insufficient public transport facilities, high
replacement demand, easy access to attractive finance options, and availability of fuel at
competitive prices. The region hosts some of the well-known automobile trade fairs that
display latest models of the top international automakers and automotive parts and
accessories. Many major international automobile manufacturers have established a
presence in the region in partnership with leading local business groups to take a slice of
the growing automobile market.
2.1 Automobile Demand in the GCC
A country‘s demography and income level play a vital role in shaping the demand for
vehicles. The GCC region‘s automotive landscape is thriving due to its young, fast-
growing, and affluent consumer base. Between 2010 and 2015, the region‘s population
has grown at a CAGR of 3.1% to over 52 million
1
(see Exhibit 1). The growth has been
much quicker than the global average of 1.2%, largely driven by a rising pool of expatriates
(~50% of the GCC population
2
). Nearly half of the population is concentrated in the
working-age group of 25-49 years with another ~40% below 25 years
3
(see Exhibit 2).
Overall, the median age of the region‘s population is 30 years. While the demand has
been inclined towards high-end vehicles traditionally, the growing number of young and
working-class people is fueling the demand for smaller and low-cost cars. Moreover, the
average household size in the region is approximately six
4
. This has translated into the
need for larger vehicles such as SUVs. The region‘s demand for fast and powerful vehicles
such as SUVs, sports cars, and 4x4s is also driven by availability of fuel at competitive
prices coupled with rough terrain and long straight roads.
1
Source: ―World Economic Outlook (WEO) Database‖, IMF, October 2016
2
Source: ―Expats In Middle East — Statistics And Trends‖, Go-Gulf, March 31, 2016
3
Source: United Nations – Population Division (2015)
4
Source: ArcGIS, Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics of Qatar
27.6
29.2
30.8
31.4
8.3
8.8
9.3
9.6
3.6
3.8
4.0
4.1
2.9
3.3
3.7
3.8
1.6
1.8
2.2
2.4
45.2
48.1
51.3
52.6
20
30
40
50
60
2010 2012 2014 2015
Million
GCC Total
Bahrain
Qatar
Oman
Kuwait
UAE
Saudi Arabia
CAGR:
2010-2015
0.9%
8.1%
5.9%
2.8%
3.0%
2.6%
5,000 3,000 1,000 1,000 3,000 5,000
0-4
10-14
20-24
30-34
40-44
50-54
60-64
70-74
80-84
90+
In Thousands
Age (Years)
Males Females
25 - 49 years
49.0%
The GCC automobile sector
has been dynamic and one
of the faster growing
sectors in the region,
primarily owing to growing
population, high disposable
income and significant
infrastructure developments
Between 2010 and 2015,
the region’s population has
grown at a CAGR of 3.1%
to over 52 million
Page | 13
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
The region has traditionally been characterized as a highly affluent society, given the vast
presence of hydrocarbon reserves. Large hydrocarbon revenues have primarily funded the
state welfare programs and bestowed the population with substantial disposable income
on hand. More recently, government push on expanding the non-oil sector has further
supported economic growth in the region. Measured by GDP per capita (in PPP terms),
Qatar is the wealthiest nation in the world
5
. Other GCC nations such as Kuwait, the UAE,
and Saudi Arabia also feature among the top ten richest countries in the world. The per
capita income in the region stood at US$ 60,348 in 2015, higher than that in the advanced
economies
6
(see Exhibit 3). A comparatively high level of income has created demand for
ultra-luxury cars such as Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar. Moreover, the purchasing
power has enabled motorists in the member nations to explore new cars and change them
more frequently. This is evident from the comparison of the average age of vehicles
(period within which a motorist changes vehicle) in some of the GCC countries and other
parts of the world
7
(see Exhibit 4).
The number of passenger cars and commercial vehicles in use in the GCC has grown at
an annualized rate of 7.0% from 9.8 million in 2010 to an estimated 13.7 million in 2015
8
(see Exhibit 5). Almost three-fourth of the region‘s vehicle fleet comprises passenger cars,
which grew at a CAGR of 7.6% during the period. At the same time, the number of
commercial vehicles increased by 5.0%. An increasing number of vehicles have created a
thriving automotive aftermarket in the region.
5
Source: ―The Richest Countries in the World‖, World Atlas, September 19, 2016
6
Source: ―WEO Database‖, IMF, October 2016
7
Source: ―Motorists in UAE and Saudi change cars more often than in US‖, Gulf News, August 14, 2015
8
Source: International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers / Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs
d‘Automobiles (OICA), Alpen Capital
$10,671
$43,707
$45,924
$49,601
$53,802
$60,348
$67,217
$70,542
$132,870
$0 $30,000 $60,000 $90,000 $120,000 $150,000
Emerging &
Dev. Economies
Oman
Advanced
Economies
Bahrain
Saudi Arabia
GCC
UAE
Kuwait
Qatar
US$
11.5
10.1
8.0
6.5
5.2
3.8
0 5 10 15
US
Australia
UK
Asia
UAE
Saudi
Arabia
Years
The strong purchasing
power has enabled
motorists in the member
nations to explore new
cars and change them
more frequently
Total vehicles in use in the
GCC has grown at an
annualized rate of 7.0%
from 9.8 million in 2010 to
an estimated 13.7 million in
2015
Page | 14
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are the largest automobile markets in the region, home to more
than 60% of all vehicles
9
(see Exhibit 6). This corresponds to the concentration of
population in these countries. On the other hand, Bahrain the smallest country by
population in the GCC was the fourth largest vehicle market representing 8.3% of the
vehicle fleet in the region. The number of vehicles in use in the GCC countries has grown
in the range of 6% to 11% between 2010 and 2015 (see Exhibit 7). Bahrain witnessed the
fastest growth during the period. A high motorization rate in Bahrain due to limited public
transport system has fueled demand for new cars as well as imported used cars.
9
Source: OICA
Exhibit 5: Number of Vehicles in Use in the GCC, by Segment
Source:
OICA, Alpen Capital
7.1
7.8
8.4
9.0
9.7
10.3
2.6
2.8
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.3
9.8
10.6
11.5
12.2
12.9
13.7
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015E
Million
Passenger cars Commercial vehicles GCC Total
Saudi Arabia
48.1%
UAE
15.2%
Kuwait
14.0%
Bahrain
8.3%
Qatar
7.4%
Oman
6.9%
4.9
5.7
6.2
6.6
1.4
1.7
2.0
2.1
1.4
1.6
1.8
1.9
0.7
0.8
1.0
1.1
0.7
0.9
1.0
1.0
0.7
0.8
0.9
0.9
9.8
11.5
12.9
13.7
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
2010 2012 2014 2015E
Million
GCC Total
Oman
Qatar
Bahrain
Kuwait
UAE
Saudi Arabia
CAGR:
2010-2015
6.9%
6.8%
10.6%
7.1%
7.6%
6.2%
The number of vehicles in
use in the GCC countries
has grown in the range of
6% to 11% between 2010
and 2015
Page | 15
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
The average motorization rate in the GCC was 252 per 1,000 inhabitants in 2014, much
below that in the regions of Americas and Europe, but higher than the world average
10
(see Exhibit 8). With rising affluence, the vehicle ownership in the GCC countries is only
set to increase further. Although the motorization rate in Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait is
either high or comparable to the rate in the Europe and Americas, the GCC average is
diluted due to low rates in the other member nations. The low motorization rate in Saudi
Arabia is primarily due to its large population base, more than 60% of which are classified
in the lower middle-income and workers (laborers, primarily expatriates) group
11
. On the
other hand, despite being seen as one of the lucrative automobile markets in the world, the
UAE has a low motorization rate possibly due its better public transport connectivity.
Moreover, a large pool of laborers has settled in the country over the years owing to jobs
created by the construction sector. With low disposable income, the vehicle ownership of
such class of expatriates is low or nil, thus affecting the country‘s average. The low
penetration in Oman is also possibly due to a lower per capita income compared to its
GCC counterparts. Bahrain is an exception with a high vehicle ownership rate of 820 per
1,000 people. This could be mainly due to lack of sufficient public transport facilities.
The region recorded sales of over 1.5 million new vehicles in 2015
12
(see Exhibit 9). The
sales volume has declined by 3.9% y-o-y, primarily due to an over 20% drop in volume of
commercial vehicles. This fall was instigated by sluggish construction and other economic
activities on the back of the drop in oil prices. Sale of passenger cars continued to grow
during the year, albeit at a slower pace of ~2%, to 1.2 million units. Growth in this segment
was witnessed in the largest markets of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while volume in other
countries dropped.
Nevertheless, measured over a period of five years, new vehicle sales in the region have
grown at a CAGR of 6.1%. The growth is faster than the world average of 3.6% and that in
10
Source: OICA, IMF
11
Source: ―Housing Opportunities & Challenges‖, JLL, September 2014
12
Source: OICA
Exhibit 8: Motorization Rate (2014)
Source:
IMF – October 2016, OICA
203 211 248 430 453 820
0
150
300
450
600
750
900
Saudi Arabia UAE Oman Qatar Kuwait Bahrain
Vehicles per 1,000 people
World Avg.
Europe Avg.
Americas Avg.
464
414
180
252
GCC Avg.
The region recorded sales
of over 1.5 million new
vehicles in 2015
The average motorization
rate in the GCC was 252
per 1,000 inhabitants in
2014, much below that in
the Americas and Europe
Page | 16
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Europe (0.2%), Americas (5.0%), and Africa (4.0%)
13
. Passenger car sales grew at a
higher rate of 7.7%, supported by increasing population, high income, and a thriving
tourism industry. The effect of high growth in car sales was somewhat suppressed by a
meager 0.6% growth in sales of commercial vehicles. Slow growth in commercial vehicles
was largely due to the fall in 2015, prior to which it grew at annualized rate of 7.4%, driven
by rising infrastructure developments across the GCC. Although the recent economic
slowdown is affecting new vehicle sales, the automobile aftermarket business is likely to
gain as consumers would use existing vehicles for a longer period.
During 2010-2015, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE recorded the fastest increase in new
vehicle sales in the range of 8.8% to 10.7%
13
(see Exhibit 10). While the growth in Bahrain
was due to a low base, growing number of expatriates fueled growth in the other two
countries. Despite a less than 1% increase in Bahrain‘s population, new vehicle sales have
grown swiftly to more than 58,000 in 2015. Nearly 82% of the new sales were passenger
cars. A less developed public transport infrastructure has resulted in almost every person
in Bahrain owning a vehicle.
Qatar registered over 86,000 new vehicles in 2015, signifying a 9.3% CAGR increase from
2010. The growth is attributed to the domestic opulence and growing population. The
country‘s population has grown by more than 8% during the five-year period, as migrants
are attracted to the job opportunities emerging out of the country‘s substantial
developments to diversify revenue. Passenger cars represented 80.1% of the total new
vehicles sold in the country in 2015.
Sale of new vehicles in the UAE reached nearly 257,000 in 2015, having grown by nearly
9% annually from 2010. Passenger cars accounted for 83.4% of the total sales in 2015.
The country has a huge demand for premium vehicles due to the presence of a large
number of ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals. The country holds the 22
nd
position in
13
Source: OICA
Exhibit 9: New Vehicle Sales in the GCC, by Segment
Source:
OICA
861
934
1,098
1,150
1,225
1,249
286
276
347
357
381
294
0
300
600
900
1,200
1,500
1,800
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars Commercial Vehicles
1,147
1,210
1,445
1,508
1,606
1,543
During 2010-2015, Bahrain,
Qatar, and the UAE
recorded the fastest
increase in new vehicle
sales in the range of 8.8%
to 10.7%
Although the recent
economic slowdown is
affecting new vehicle
sales, the automobile
aftermarket business is
likely to gain as consumers
would use existing
vehicles for a longer period
Page | 17
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
the ranking of countries across the world for UHNW population
14
. Many authorized dealers
in the country have been recognized by luxury automakers for recording the highest sales.
The UAE has been at the forefront of diversifying its revenue sources beyond the
traditional hydrocarbons sector, which has attracted people from across the world.
Growing population coupled with the affluence level has driven demand for vehicles,
largely in the Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Further, its booming tourism market has
propelled demand for vehicles from rental and taxi businesses.
New vehicle sales in Saudi Arabia have grown at a CAGR of 6.7% during the five-year
period. The passenger car segment represented over 80% of the new vehicle sales. The
Kingdom has high demand for low- to mid-range cars that account for nearly 95% of the
total vehicle market
15
. Cars particularly from China are gaining momentum. Saudi Arabia
has a smaller premium vehicles market compared to its counterparts
15
. The automobile
industry in the country is buzzing not only due to demand from its young and growing
middle-class population, but also due to government‘s thrust in developing local production
with an aim of becoming a regional hub. The automotive sector has been identified as a
key priority sector in the country‘s National Industrial Clusters Development Programme
(NICDP) that was initiated about a decade ago as a part of the economic diversification
measures. The program is focusing on developing an automotive cluster by attracting and
supporting vehicle assembly projects, tire manufacturers, and other industry-related
service providers
16
.
Kuwait witnessed sale of nearly 144,000 new vehicles in 2015, registering an annualized
growth of 5.5% from 2010. With sale of over 124,000 cars, the passenger cars segment
formed 86.4% of total new vehicle sales in 2015. Growing GDP and investments in non-oil
sectors coupled with rising population characterized by an increasing middle class
segment is fueling demand.
Oman, the third largest automobile market in the GCC in terms of new vehicle sales,
recorded sale of 167,600 new cars in 2015, of which 72.3% was passenger cars. The
country is witnessing a drop in vehicle sales since 2014, as the decline in oil prices from
H2 2014 is reducing willingness of consumers to spend on high-value products. The fall in
new sales was more noticeable among private cars, taxis, and tractors
17
.
14
Source: ―Ultra Wealthy In United Arab Emirates Control US$255 Billion Of Private Wealth‖, PR Newswire, October
4, 2015
15
Source: ―Saudi Arabia Automotive Industry Outlook‖, Focus2move, July 31, 2016
16
Source: ―Automotive Cluster – Industry Development‖, National Industrial Clusters Development Program
17
Source: ―Auto dealers in Oman betting on Ramadan promotions to rev up sales‖, Times of Oman, May 16, 2016
Saudi Arabia has high
demand for low- to mid-
range cars that account for
nearly 95% of the total
vehicle market
Oman is witnessing a drop
in vehicle sales since 2014,
as the decline in oil prices
from H2 2014 is reducing
willingness of consumers
to spend on high-value
products
Page | 18
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Leading Automobile Brands in the GCC
Analyzed by automobile brands, the Japanese vehicles are the most popular in the GCC
region. Toyota leads the passenger car market with a share of over 30% of the new sales
(see Exhibit 11). Its leadership position is unbeaten, despite entry of several new brands in
last five years. The other top brands in the region are Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Hyundai.
Exhibit 10: New Vehicle Sales in the GCC, by Country
Source:
OICA
600
705
828
830
168
269
263
257
178
205
208
168
110
140
152
144
56
80
93
86
1,147
1,445
1,606
1,543
0
300
600
900
1,200
1,500
1,800
2010 2012 2014 2015
Thousands
GCC
Bahrain
Qatar
Kuwait
Oman
UAE
Saudi Arabia
CAGR:
2010-2015
10.7%
9.3%
5.5%
-1.2%
8.8%
6.7%
Toyota leads the
passenger car market in
the GCC with a share of
over 30% of the new sales
Page | 19
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
The share of Toyota in Saudi Arabia declined by over 4 percentage points (ppts) y-o-y
during the first seven months of 2016, while that of Hyundai and Nissan increased by 3.8
and 1.1 ppts, respectively
18
. Other brands such as Isuzu and Ford lost share due to
decline in sales. Based on sales of vehicles by model, Hyundai-owned cars – Accent and
Elantra – were the leaders in the Kingdom during the first seven months of 2016.
Although the market share of Toyota in the UAE passenger car market remained constant
at 30% from 2015 to July 2016, it has lost 3% share since 2014
19
. During the first seven
months of 2016, sales of the third largest brand – Mitsubishi – declined by 33% y-o-y
resulting in nearly 3 ppts drop in its market share. Luxury brand – BMW – secured the
fourth largest market share at 6% during the period. In terms of models, Toyota Land
Cruiser claimed the lead in the UAE vehicle sales with a 5.8% market share. Chinese
brands have also forayed into the market and are gaining prominence mainly due to their
affordability in terms of cost of ownership as well as maintenance cost
20
.
18
Source: ―Saudi Arabia January-July 2016: Hyundai Accent & Elantra take charge‖, Best selling cars blog, October
5, 2016
19
Source: ―United Arab Emirates January-July 2016: Land Cruiser takes charge‖, Best selling cars blog, September
19, 2016
20
Source: ―Chinese car makers ready to manoeuvre the UAE market‖, Albawaba, April 20, 2015
Exhibit 11: Top Three Brands of Passenger Cars in the GCC Countries
Source:
Best Selling Cars Blog
Note: Based on January-July 2016 new sales data for the UAE and Saudi Arabia, January-April 2016 data for Kuwait and Qatar, and 2015 data for Oman and Bahrain
Qatar
Kuwait
Bahrain
8%
24%
31%
Nissan
Hyundai
Toyota
Oman
UAE
9%
14%
32%
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Toyota
6%
10%
45%
Hyundai
Nissan
Toyota
9%
15%
37%
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Toyota
11%
16%
30%
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Toyota
9%
10%
55%
Hyundai
Nissan
Toyota
Saudi Arabia
Although the market share
of Toyota in the UAE
remained constant at 30%
from 2015 to July 2016, it
has lost 3% share since
2014
Page | 20
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Within the GCC, Toyota held the largest market share of 52% in Oman during January-
July 2016
21
. The brand accounts for more than one in every two cars sold in the country.
However, the Japanese brand‘s share has dropped from 54.8% in 2015. The top five best-
selling car models in the Sultanate are of Toyota, with Hilux and Land Cruiser holding on
to the top two positions. During 2015, Chinese automaker, Geely, secured the 11
th
position
by recording a 98% increase in sales.
In Kuwait, Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi held the leadership positions during January-
April 2016
22
. Mitsubishi has overtaken brands such as Kia, Hyundai, and Chevrolet since
2015 to claim third position in the country‘s passenger car sales. Market share of Nissan
has also increased by 2.6 ppts during the first four months of 2016 from 11.4% in 2015.
During the same period, the share of Toyota declined by about 5 ppts. Measured by sales
of vehicle models, Toyota Prado continued its dominance with a 10.8% market share,
followed by Toyota Land Cruiser at 4.8%.
The Qatar new passenger car sales during first four months of 2016 was dominated by
Toyota with a 36.5% market share, an increase of 2.8 ppts from that in 2015
23
. With the
launch of a new version, Toyota Land Cruiser strengthened its leading position with a
market share of 15.2% during the period. At the same time, Lexus LX jumped to third
place, its best ever ranking in the world, on account of a robust increase in sales. Overall,
the Lexus brand gained a 5.3% market share in the country, moving up four positions to
the 4
th
place during January-April 2016.
In Bahrain, Toyota strengthened its market share to 47.0% during the first four months of
2016 from 44.6% in 2015
24
. While Nissan retained its second position, Hyundai lost its
position to Lexus during January-April 2016. Toyota Land Cruiser remained the favorite
car sold in the country with a market share of 13.8% during the period. Toyota
monopolizes the best-selling cars ranking in Bahrain, with 10 of its models among the top
12.
Demand for Used Cars
The GCC countries, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have a highly active used cars
market. As buyers change new car models in a short span of time, the region has a large
market for used cars. The pre-owned vehicles are also exported to other countries in the
larger Middle East and Africa region. Demand for used cars is rising faster than that of new
cars, mainly due changing customer habits, as they become more budget-conscious given
the weak economic conditions.
The UAE has the largest market for used cars, with sales in 2015 estimated at AED 11.2
billion (US$ 3.0 billion
25
)
26
, having grown by over 20% y-o-y
27
. The pre-owned vehicles
market in the country is largely unorganized and unregulated. Within the country, Dubai is
a large market due to a wide array of pre-owned vehicles in good condition available on
sale at attractive prices. Demand for SUVs and luxury sedans is particularly high. The
Emirate also acts as a source of supply of used cars for its neighboring countries. Several
21
Source: ―Oman January-July 2016: Hilux and Land Cruiser P/Up to market down 21%‖, Best selling cars blog,
September 19, 2016
22
Source: ―Kuwait January-April 2016: Prado, Land Cruiser, Patrol & Pajero on top‖, Best selling cars blog, June 23,
2016
23
Source: ―Qatar January-April 2016: Land Cruiser at 15.2% share, Lexus LX #3‖, Best selling cars blog, June 21,
2016
24
Source: ―Bahrain January-April 2016: Toyota Land Cruiser soars to 13.8% share‖, Best selling cars blog, June 23,
2016
25
Converted using exchange rate of 0.272
26
Source: ―How to buy a used car in the UAE‖, Gulf News, January 27, 2016
27
Source: ―UAE used cars market moves into the fast lane‖, Gulf News, June 22, 2015; Alpen Capital
As buyers change new car
models in a short span of
time, the region has a large
market for used cars
Mitsubishi has overtaken
brands such as Kia,
Hyundai, and Chevrolet
since 2015 to claim third
position in Kuwait’s
passenger car sales
In Bahrain, Toyota
strengthened its market
share to 47.0% during the
first four months of 2016
from 44.6% in 2015
Page | 21
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
dealerships in the region have developed certified pre-owned car sales programs that
cover warranties and repairs. The used-cars dealers in the UAE are largely concentrated
in dedicated areas like Al Aweer (with over 200 showrooms) in Dubai and the newly
opened Souq Al Haraj in Sharjah. Souq Al Haraj was opened in January 2016 to replace
the older used-cars markets at Abu Shagara and Bu Daniq, which were facing parking and
traffic issues
28
. More than 350 dealers have relocated to the new market, which was built
at a cost of AED 250 million (US$ 68.0 million
29
) and has a capacity of 25,000 cars. In
Saudi Arabia, sale of used cars represent 13% of the total car sales
30
.
Used-cars transactions via the online providers are seeing greater traction in the GCC, as
compared to the brick-and-mortar format. Since launching in 2013 as the first online used-
car buying service provider in the Middle East, the UAE-based SellAnyCar.com has grown
its business by 600%
31
. Thousands of dealers in the country have registered with the
online service provider, services of which have been used by 20% of the population. The
used car start-up company has also expanded its reach to Saudi Arabia, in addition to
Turkey and Germany, while planning to build a presence in other GCC countries including
Qatar and Kuwait.
2.2 Supply is Predominantly Import Driven
Due to limited vehicle manufacturing activity in the GCC, the member countries heavily
rely on imports to meet the demand of vehicles. There are no light vehicle manufacturing
units in the region, but there are only a handful of automotive parts and truck / bus
assembly units, largely concentrated in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The region has
manufacturing units of armored vehicles, trailers, tippers, batteries, brakes, radiators, and
exhaust systems, among others. Some of the companies running assembly operations for
heavy vehicles in the region include Ashok Leyland, Bion Group, Isuzu Motors Saudi
Arabia Co., Haji Husein Alireza & Co. Ltd. (in a joint venture (JV) with MAN Truck & Bus),
Hafilat Industries, SCANIA, Streit Group (armored vehicles) and Zahid Tractor & Heavy
Machinery Co. (in a JV with Volvo Group). Saudi Arabia has the most number of
automotive plants in the GCC, accounting for over 60% of the region‘s more than 300
assembly and parts production units
32
. The Saudi government has encouraged setting up
of manufacturing units by providing incentives such as 100% foreign ownership, low-cost
loans, and no value-added, land or sales tax. The UAE also offers similar set of incentives
to provide an investor-friendly climate. Oman is also making investments to develop its
domestic automobile production landscape. Having realized the huge potential of the GCC
automotive market, several overseas manufacturers have announced plans to open
production facilities in the member nations.
The GCC region imported vehicles and related parts and accessories worth US$ 57.0
billion in 2015, registering an 8.3% annual growth from 2010
33
. Passenger cars and
commercial vehicles accounted for over 90% of the automotive imports in 2015. Most of
the commercial vehicles are imported in the form of completely built units or semi-knocked
down units. One-fourth of the total automotive imports in the GCC in 2015 were sourced
from Japan, followed by the US, Germany, and Korea (see Exhibit 12). Due to their sheer
28
Source: ―Sharjah‘s new used car market has room for 25,000 vehicles‖, Gulf News, January 14, 2016
29
Converted using exchange rate of 0.272
30
Source: ―The first and largest online car buying service In Kingdom of Saudi Arabia‖, Zawya, February 4, 2015
31
Source: ―SellAnyCar.com increases traffic with more UAE car dealers‖, The National, July 19, 2016
32
Source: ―Saudi Arabia – A Booming Market and New Auto Manufacturing Hub for the Middle East‖, US-Saudi
Arabian Business Council
33
Source: International Trade Center
Due to limited vehicle
manufacturing activity in
the GCC, the member
countries heavily rely on
imports to meet the
demand of vehicles
The GCC region imported
vehicles and related parts
and accessories worth US$
57.0 billion in 2015,
registering an 8.3% annual
growth from 2010
Page | 22
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
population size, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are the leading importers, representing nearly
three-fourth of the region‘s overall imports (see Exhibit 13). The share of these markets
along with Qatar has increased in the range of 1-3 ppts, even as that of Oman declined by
over 5 ppts during 2010-2015. Saudi Arabia – the largest importer of vehicles and
automobile parts in the GCC – imported 1.1 million vehicles in 2015, registering a 9.2% y-
o-y growth
34
. This growth was driven by an increasing demand for passenger vehicles.
Total value of imported vehicles in Saudi Arabia in 2015 was US$ 22.8 billion, while in the
UAE it stood at US$ 14.5 billion
35
. Import value of both these countries has grown at a
CAGR of above 9% in the last five years (see Exhibit 14). Oman was an exception as its
imports declined by more than 30% y-o-y in 2015, after registering annualized growth of
over 7% from 2010.
34
Source: ―Saudi car imports rose 10% in 2015‖, Argaam, May 31, 2016
35
Source: International Trade Center
Japan
25.0%
US
16.0%
Germany
9.8%
Korea
9.4%
Thailand
5.1%
UK
4.1%
China
3.9%
Others
26.8%
2015 Value:
US$ 57.0 billion
41%
28%
9%
6%
13%
44%
30%
8%
7%
7%
4%
Saudi Arabia UAE Kuwait Qatar Oman Bahrain
2015
2010
Value:
US$ 38.2 billion (2010)
US$ 57.0 billion (2015)
Total value of imported
vehicles in Saudi Arabia
and the UAE has grown at
a CAGR of above 9% in the
last five years
Page | 23
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
In addition to importing for own consumption, the GCC countries also re-export vehicles
and related parts. The UAE and Oman are considered to be major re-exporters of vehicles
and spare parts to rest of the Middle East region. These countries conduct large re-export
trade owing to their strategic location, logistics capabilities, business-friendly regulatory
environment, large ports, and free zones. Re-exports of vehicles
36
from the UAE stood at
AED 31.9 billion (US$ 8.7 billion
37
) in 2015
38
. Oman reported vehicles, vessels, and
aircraft re-exports of OMR 1.6 billion (US$ 4.1 billion
39
) in 2015
40
. Typically, re-export trade
represents more than 98% of the country‘s exports, bulk of which goes to the African
markets. The ports of Sohar and Duqm are the major trade facilitators in the Sultanate.
The UAE is the most vibrant automobile trade markets in the Middle East. Within the
country, the Emirate of Dubai acts as a major hub for trade. Direct trade of vehicles,
vessels, and aircraft in Dubai amounted to AED 107.7 billion (US$ 29.3 billion
37
) in 2015,
accounting for over 13% of the Emirate‘s total direct trade value
41
. It included AED 76.6
billion (US$ 20.9 billion) of imports and AED 30.0 billion (US$ 8.2 billion) of re-exports. The
free zones in the Emirate registered vehicles, vessels, and aircraft trade of AED 26.0
billion (US$ 7.1 billion). Around 60% of the trade value was imports and nearly 40% re-
exports. Automotive parts and accessories such as sedan tires, auto batteries, truck & bus
tires, fuel filters, and clutches are a major component of the automotive trade in Dubai,
with its trade value amounting to AED 40.5 billion (US$ 11.0 billion) in 2015
42
.
The Jebel Ali Free Zone is the major center for automotive and spare parts business in
Dubai. Advantages such as 100% foreign ownership and tax and duty exemptions have
facilitated establishment of more than 620 automotive and spare parts companies in the
36
Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling-stock, and parts and accessories thereof
37
Converted using exchange rate of 0.272
38
Source: ―Foreign Trade 2015‖, Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority
39
Converted using exchange rate of 2.589
40
Source: National Center for Statistics and Information – Oman
41
Source: Dubai Statistics Center
42
Source: ―Dubai‘s auto parts trade valued at AED40.5 billion in 2015‖, Dubai Customs, May 9, 2016
Exhibit 14: Automotive Imports in the GCC, by Country
Source:
International Trade Center
Note: Automotive imports does not include motorcycles, bicycles, baby carriers, and related parts
13.9
22.8
9.0
14.5
4.3
3.9
3.1
4.5
2.3
4.0
1.1
1.9
1.6
2.0
1.9
2.4
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
2010 2015 2010 2015 2010 2015E 2010 2015 2010 2015 2010 2015
Saudi Arabia UAE Oman Kuwait Qatar Bahrain
US$ billion
Vehicles Parts and accessories
15.6
24.8
10.9
16.9
4.9
4.2
3.3
4.7
2.5
4.3
1.1
2.1
CAGR (2010-2015)
Saudi Arabia 9.8%
UAE 9.2%
Oman -2.8%
Kuwait 7.2%
Qatar 11.7%
Bahrain 12.4%
The UAE and Oman are
considered to be major re-
exporters of vehicles and
spare parts to rest of the
Middle East region
The UAE is the most
vibrant automobile trade
markets in the Middle East,
within which the Emirate of
Dubai acts as a major hub
for trade
Page | 24
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
zone
43
. The free zone recorded vehicle and automobile parts trade worth US$ 5 billion in
2015. The commencement of the under construction pan-Gulf rail network, that would link
the Jebel Ali port to other major cities in the GCC through Etihad Rail, is likely to further
bolster the trade activity. Another major automobile sector dedicated free zone in the
Emirate is Dubai Cars and Automotive City Zone (DUCAMZ). Located in Ras Al Khor,
DUCAMZ was established in 2000 with the purpose of re-exporting cars to the Asian and
African regions.
Total trade value of transport vehicles in Abu Dhabi stood at AED 31.7 billion (US$ 8.6
billion
44
) in 2015, 86% and 12% of which was imports and re-exports, respectively
45
.
Compared to Dubai, Abu Dhabi has a small automotive trade market. Nevertheless, the
city is witnessing new developments that are likely to provide an impetus to the market.
ZonesCorp, the largest free zone developer in the Emirate, is developing an integrated
automobile hub named Autocity as part of the government‘s strategic plans to develop the
automotive sector. The hub would comprise light auto industries, vehicle assembly units,
storage, and logistic facilities. Another major development includes construction of a steel
foundry to produce automotive parts such as steep brake disks and brake calipers in the
Khalifa Industrial Zone
46
. The parts will be used by the major brands like BMW,
Volkswagen, and Mercedes. The project is being developed in three phases and will have
an aggregate capacity of 300,000 metric tonnes per annum.
43
Source: ―The driving force behind the growth of the UAE‘s automotive industry‖, Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority
44
Converted using exchange rate of 0.272
45
Source: Abu Dhabi Statistics Center
46
Source: ―Abu Dhabi to Export Auto Spare Parts‖, Khaleej Times, March 31, 2015
Page | 25
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
3. The GCC Automobile Industry Outlook
3.1 Forecasting Methodology
This report provides an outlook of the GCC automobile industry in terms of the number of
passenger cars in use and new sales in each constituent country through 2020.
The factors considered for the projections include:
Population and GDP (at current prices) from IMF (last updated October 2016)
Historical passenger cars in use and new sales from OICA
The protracted slowdown in economic growth in the region due to low oil prices is having
negative implications on the industry, which has largely experienced unhindered growth in
recent past. To capture the impact of current economic slowdown, the new passenger car
sales in the short-term have been projected using methodologies including extrapolation of
H1 2016 data and GDP growth forecast in 2017. As the economic situation normalizes,
demand in the industry is expected to be in line with its long-term linear trend.
Subsequently, we have deployed regression analysis to forecast the new passenger car
sales in the long-term, as the statistical technique has shown a strong correlation in the
past ten years. Vehicles in use for each forecast year are a function of new sales, used-car
imports and the vehicles going off-road.
Note: We have not considered commercial vehicles in our forecasts due to limited
availability of reliable historical data.
3.2 The GCC Automobile Industry Forecast
Number of passenger cars in use in the GCC is expected to grow at a 5.0% CAGR from
an estimated 10.3 million in 2015 to 13.2 million in 2020 (see Exhibit 15). New passenger
car sales are projected at 1.4 million in 2020, compared to 1.2 million in 2015. The
anticipated growth is slower compared to that during last five years in view of the near-
term softness in economic activity, as consumers tighten discretionary spending and delay
buying new cars. Although new sales are expected to decline in 2016 and remain under
pressure in 2017, they are likely to recover from 2018 as the economic environment
stabilizes and creates pent-up demand. A rise in population coupled with demand from car
rental or tourism agencies in view of increasing tourist arrivals is also expected to support
new vehicles sales growth, going forward.
New passenger car sales
are projected at 1.4 million
in 2020 compared to 1.2
million in 2015
Page | 26
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Between 2015 and 2020, passenger cars in use in the GCC countries are anticipated to
expand at annual average growth rates of 3.6%-5.4% (see Exhibit 17). Number of cars in
use in Oman is expected to grow below the regional average in anticipation of a drop in
new car sales in 2016 and slow recovery in the years to 2020. In line with the size of
population, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait collectively are expected to continue holding
more than 75% of the region‘s passenger car fleet in 2020. With a relatively slower growth
in cars in use, Oman‘s share is likely to drop during the forecast period. At the same time,
Qatar is projected to overtake Oman to become the fifth largest automobile market in the
GCC in terms of passenger cars in use, while the remaining countries maintain the status
quo in ranking through 2020. During the forecasted period, the fastest growth in new
passenger car sales is projected in the UAE (see Exhibit 18) in anticipation of rising
population and tourist arrivals ahead of the World Expo 2020. Other counterparts are likely
to exhibit an annualized growth of about 2% during 2015-2020.
10,323
10,785
11,881
13,156
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
1,249
996
1,282
1,409
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
1,200
1,400
1,600
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
3.6%
4.5%
4.6%
5.2%
5.3%
5.4%
0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6%
Oman
Kuwait
Bahrain
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
1.8%
1.8%
2.0%
2.1%
2.1%
4.5%
0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5%
Qatar
Kuwait
Saudi Arabia
Oman
Bahrain
UAE
Between 2015 and 2020,
passenger cars in use in
the GCC countries are
anticipated to expand at
annual average growth
rates of 3.6%-5.4%
Page | 27
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
3.3 Country-wise Market Size Forecast
Saudi Arabia
Number of passenger cars in Saudi Arabia, the most populous nation in the GCC, is
projected at 5.6 million in 2020, indicating an estimated annual average growth of 5.2%
from 2015 (see Exhibit 19). The country is likely to continue holding its ranking as the
largest market for passenger cars in the GCC, accounting for ~43% of cars in use in 2020.
New car sales are likely to decline in 2016 and remain subdued in 2017, as consumers
scale back new car purchases amid a weak economic environment and government
austerity measures. Nevertheless, new car sales is likely to recover in 2018 and thereon
grow at a stable pace to reach nearly 743,000 in 2020, suggesting a CAGR of 2.0% from
2015 (see Exhibit 20), in anticipation of a recovery in oil prices. This coupled with a
growing consumer base, rising tourism, high rate of urbanization, and government
incentives to strengthen the domestic automobile manufacturing activity is likely to lend
impetus to the sector. The Kingdom – largest importer of vehicles and automotive parts –
is expected to witness an addition of over 3 million people and a 4.8% annual average
growth in tourist arrivals during 2015-2020
47
. The development of a national automotive
cluster in the country with a target to produce 600,000 vehicles a year by 2025
48
is likely to
cater to incremental demand from the growing consumer base.
UAE
From an estimated 2.0 million in 2015, the number of passenger cars in use in the UAE is
expected to expand at a 5.3% CAGR to reach 2.5 million in 2020 (see Exhibit 21). The
country‘s share of the GCC passenger vehicle fleet is projected to reach 19.2% in 2020. A
high disposable income, penchant for luxury cars, and availability of attractive financing
options in the country would continue to drive demand for cars. The country conducts
automotive trade on a large scale to meet its domestic demand and re-export to the Middle
East and Africa region. The persistent economic slowdown and weakness in the re-export
markets has led to piling up of inventory among automobile dealers in the country. In view
of this, we expect demand for new cars to remain suppressed in the short-term.
47
Source: IMF, ―The GCC Hospitality Industry Report‖, Alpen Capital, August 23, 2016
48
Source: ―Automotive Cluster – Industry Development‖, National Industrial Clusters Development Program
4,374
4,571
5,075
5,647
0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
672
538
698
743
0
150
300
450
600
750
900
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
New passenger car sales in
Saudi Arabia is projected
to reach nearly 743,000 in
2020, suggesting a CAGR
of 2.0% from 2015
New passenger car sales in
the UAE is expected to
increase from 214,000 in
2015 to over 267,000 in
2020
Page | 28
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Nonetheless, the long-term outlook is promising driven by an anticipated increase in
population and leisure as well as business travellers in light of the World Expo 2020.
During 2015-2020, the country‘s population is projected to increase at an annual average
of 2.9% and tourist arrivals by 7.0%
49
. Consequently, new car sales in the UAE are
projected to grow at an annualized rate of 4.5% to over 267,000 in 2020 from an estimated
214,000 in 2015 (see Exhibit 22). As car sales continue to expand in the UAE, several
automobile aftermarket providers and ancillary manufacturers are looking to establish
presence in the country.
Kuwait
Number of passenger cars in use in Kuwait is anticipated to reach nearly 2.0 million by
2020, translating into a 4.5% CAGR from 2015 (see Exhibit 23). The country is likely to
represent 15.1% of total passenger car fleet in the GCC in 2020. After experiencing a
slowdown in 2016 and 2017, new car sales are projected to reach over 136,000 in 2020,
implying an annualized growth rate of 1.8% over 2015 (see Exhibit 24). The country‘s GDP
per capita declined by over 30% y-o-y in 2015
50
, the largest drop within the GCC, due to its
high dependency on oil revenue. This has affected consumer spending on high-value
products such as cars. Nevertheless, rising population coupled with a revival of oil prices is
likely to fuel demand for new cars in the long-term. Additionally, the Kuwaiti government
investments in developing tourist attractions are likely to generate demand for new
vehicles from car rental and travel companies in the country.
49
Source: IMF, ―The GCC Hospitality Industry Report‖, Alpen Capital, August 23, 2016
50
Source: IMF
1,952
2,039
2,247
2,525
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
214
172
224
267
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
New car sales in Kuwait
are projected at over
136,000 in 2020, implying
an annualized growth rate
of 1.8% from 2015
Page | 29
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Bahrain
Passenger cars in use in Bahrain, having one of the highest motorization rates in the
world, is projected to grow at an annualized rate of 4.6% to reach 1.2 million in 2020 from
less than 1.0 million in 2015 (see Exhibit 25). The country‘s share of the GCC passenger
cars market is forecasted to reach ~9% in 2020. New car sales in the country in 2016 is
expected to drop by 20.4% y-o-y, but later on recover to over 53,000 units in 2020 (see
Exhibit 26). The expectation of a 2.1% CAGR in new sales during 2015-2020 is on the
back of increase in expatriates, tourists, and income levels. While population and per
capita income are anticipated to grow at an annual average of ~2% during the forecasted
period, tourist arrivals are projected to grow by 4.7%
51
.
51
IMF, ―The GCC Hospitality Industry Report‖, Alpen Capital, August 23, 2016
1,596
1,652
1,800
1,986
0
400
800
1,200
1,600
2,000
2,400
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
124
87
120
136
0
30
60
90
120
150
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
957
1,019
1,112
1,197
0
260
520
780
1,040
1,300
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
48
38
47
53
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
New car sales in Bahrain is
expected to reach over
53,000 units in 2020
Page | 30
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Oman
Number of passenger cars in use in Oman is projected to reach over 889,000 in 2020,
translating into a five-year CAGR of 3.6% (see Exhibit 27). The country has witnessed a
drop in new passenger car sales in last couple of years due to the economic slowdown.
This phenomenon is anticipated to continue in the short-term. Accordingly, Oman‘s share
of the total GCC passenger cars in use is likely to drop from an estimated 7.2% in 2015 to
6.8% in 2020. However, growing population and tourist arrivals is likely to revive demand
in the years to 2020. The Omani government‘s plan to develop various tourist spots and
encourage private investments in development of tourism-related infrastructure is
expected to increase international tourist arrivals by 6.3% CAGR during the forecasted
period
52
. Consequently, new car sales in the country are forecasted to reach nearly
135,000 units in 2020 from 121,100 in 2015 (see Exhibit 28). Oman through its sovereign
wealth fund has made over a couple of investments to develop local vehicle manufacturing
landscape. Such investments are likely to strengthen the country‘s automobile sector,
going forward.
Qatar
Number of passenger cars in use in Qatar is expected to reach nearly 912,000 units in
2020, registering the region‘s highest annualized growth of 5.4% from 2015 (see Exhibit
29). High urbanization rate and increasing number of affluent consumers have been
propelling demand for different types of passenger cars. The country is likely to see a net
addition of around 213,000 cars during the forecasted period. Number of passenger cars
in use in Qatar is projected to account for ~7% of the GCC car fleet in 2020. New car sales
are projected at nearly 76,000 units in 2020, indicating a CAGR of 1.8% from 2015 (see
Exhibit 30). Like other countries, demand for new cars is anticipated to decline in 2016 and
remain under pressure in 2017. Growth in the later years is likely to be supported by an
expected increase in population and tourist arrivals in the build-up to the mega football
event in 2022. The government is investing US$ 200 billion on infrastructure projects to
prepare itself for hosting the mega event
53
. Additionally, the government is developing
National Museum of Qatar, beaches, shopping malls, and entertainment facilities to attract
52
Source: IMF, ―The GCC Hospitality Industry Report‖, Alpen Capital, August 23, 2016
53
Source: ―Qatar shifts the goalposts on Fifa World Cup 2022 plans‖, The National, May 1, 2014
745
773
835
889
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
121
110
126
135
0
30
60
90
120
150
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
New car sales in Oman are
forecasted to reach nearly
135,000 units in 2020 from
121,100 in 2015
New car sales in Qatar are
projected at nearly 76,000
units in 2020, indicating a
CAGR of 1.8% from 2015
Page | 31
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
an estimated seven million tourists by 2030
54
. Such factors act as demand catalyst for
vehicle sales in the country.
54
Source: Qatar Tourism Authority
699
731
812
912
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
69
51
67
76
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
2015E 2016F 2018F 2020F
Thousands
Page | 32
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
4. Growth Drivers
Growing Population and High Rate of Urbanization
The GCC population is expected to increase at an annual average growth rate of 2.4%
between 2015 and 2020 (see Exhibit 31). An expanding consumer base is likely to
translate into higher demand for new as well as used vehicles and related parts in the
region. The GCC nations are also highly urbanized with about 89% of the overall
population living in urban areas in 2015
55
. High urbanization has promoted growth in trade
and business activities, thus creating demand for vehicles. The already high rate of
urbanization is only set to increase in the coming years
56
, as the governments are rolling
out initiatives to develop smart cities that would enhance the quality of life and stimulate
economic activities.
Increasing Disposable Income
In addition to the size, the wealth of the population also tends to have a large influence on
the demand for vehicles. Between 2010 and 2015, total vehicles in use in the GCC have
moved almost in tandem with the GDP per capita (see Exhibit 32). Over the years, the
GCC region‘s economy has emerged as one of the richest and fastest growing in the
world, largely owing to its proven oil reserves and increasing non-oil revenue. Saudi
Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait earn more than 85% of their revenue from oil and gas exports
57
.
On the other hand, the rest of GCC members have a growing and higher proportion of
non-oil revenue with focus on manufacturing and services industries and infrastructure
developments. Although the fall in oil prices has affected the GCC economy, it is projected
55
Source: World Bank
56
Source: ―World Urbanization Prospects 2014 revision‖, United Nations
57
Source: ―Oil‘s Fall Is a Challenge for Gulf Economies, but Also an Opportunity‖, Harvard Business Review, March
7, 2016
Exhibit 31: GCC Population Forecast
Source:
IMF, October 2016
Note: F – Forecast
31.4
32.0
33.3
34.7
9.6
9.9
10.4
11.1
4.1
4.2
4.5
4.7
3.8
4.0
4.2
4.5
2.4
2.6
2.7
2.8
20
30
40
50
60
70
2015 2016F 2018F 2020F
Million
Bahrain
Qatar
Oman
Kuwait
UAE
Saudi Arabia
CAGR:
2015-2020
2.0%
2.8%
3.1%
2.8%
2.9%
2.0%
52.6
53.9
56.5
59.1
An expanding population
is likely to translate into
higher demand for new as
well as used vehicles and
related parts in the region
Over the years, the GCC
region’s economy has
emerged as one of the
richest and fastest growing
in the world, largely owing
to oil exports and
increasing non-oil revenue
Page | 33
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
to grow over the long-term in anticipation of the recovery in oil prices and successful
revenue diversification measures. Despite the projection of a decline in real GDP in 2016,
it is forecasted to improve and remain almost steady in the member nations in the range of
2% to 4% from 2017 to 2020
58
. GDP of the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait is anticipated to rise at
a faster rate than the regional average. Personal income levels of the population are
directly correlated to economic growth. Hence, a growing economy is likely to translate into
increase in disposable income. Moreover, a tax-free fiscal environment has supported
discretionary spending.
The Middle East, represented largely by the GCC countries, is home to many high net
worth individuals. The wealth of the affluent section of the society has grown at a CAGR of
5.7% from 2006 to reach US$ 2.3 trillion in 2015 and is expected to grow further at an
annualized rate of 6.7% to US$ 4.4 trillion by 2025
59
. With a high degree of spending
power, they have a penchant for high-value products such as cars. Global automakers of
luxury as well as mid-segment cars are expanding their presence in the region to lure the
wealthy class.
Low Cost of Ownership
Purchase of cars in the GCC is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries globally
due to favorable tax structure with no value added tax, luxury tax, and special consumption
tax
60
. The price of the world‘s largest selling vehicle, Toyota Corolla, in the GCC averaged
at US$ 16,341
61
(see Exhibit 33). The vehicle price is 30%-35% lower than that in
Germany and Hong Kong and substantially below the price in Singapore. Vehicles in
Singapore are very expensive mainly due to high fees for Certificate of Entitlement, a levy
58
Source: ―WEO Database‖, IMF, October 2016
59
Source: ―World Wealth Report‖, Capgemini, 2016
60
Source: ―U.S. Commercial Service Automotive Resource Guide‖, Auto Care Association, 2014
61
Source: ―The top 10 best-selling vehicles in the world‖, Driving, February 13, 2016; Toyota websites in US,
Germany, Singapore, India, and Hong Kong; Drive Arabia; Alpen Capital
Exhibit 32: Trend in Growth of GDP vis-à-vis Vehicles in Use and New Sales
Source:
IMF, October 2016
-20%
-15%
-10%
-5%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015E
Change (y-o-y)
Vehicles in use New vehicle sales GDP per capita
With a high degree of
spending power, the
affluent people in the GCC
have a penchant for high-
value products such as
cars
Purchase of cars in the
GCC is relatively
inexpensive compared to
other countries globally
Page | 34
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
charged by the government for the right to own a vehicle and use the limited road space
for 10 years. Low cost of owning a vehicle in the GCC countries alongside availability of
fuel, insurance, and finance at competitive rates has supported demand for cars.
Availability of Fuel at Competitive Prices
One of the key drivers of the automobile industry in the GCC is availability of low-cost fuel.
Large proven crude oil reserves have enabled the member countries to offer fuel at
subsidized rates. Although these oil-based economies have recently resorted to raising
energy prices in a bid to reduce subsidies, the cost of fuel is still much below the global
average. The effective base price of fuel in several countries globally is high due to certain
factors such as levy of a series of taxes related to road improvements and environmental
programs. Absence of such taxes has kept the base price low in the GCC countries. The
average price of gasoline in the GCC countries on October 10, 2016 ranged between at
US$ 0.24 to US$ 0.46 per liter
62
. The highest price was in the UAE and Oman, still lesser
than Germany and the UK by 35% and that in Hong Kong by 25%.
Affordable Financing
The residents of the GCC region have access to attractive financing options at low interest
rates provided by many leading banks. Car loans in the UAE are being provided at flat
interest rates as low as 1.5%, with repayment periods of a maximum of six years
63
. Every
year during the holy month of Ramadan, many dealers in collaboration with the banks offer
interest-free finance on selected models. During the month, several banks offer several
0% finance options on purchase of selected vehicle models. The easy availability of
62
Source: Global Petrol Prices, October 10, 2016
63
Source: ―Car buyer‘s market this holy month‖, Gulf News, June 22, 2015
Exhibit 33: Global Retail Prices of Toyota Corolla
Source:
Toyota websites in the US, Germany, Singapore, India, and Hong Kong; Drive Arabia
Note: The above prices are of different variants of Toyota Corolla in the respective countries as on November 9,
2016
$15,678
$15,726
$16,329
$16,341
$16,472
$16,825
$17,020
$18,804
$20,818
$23,173
$24,767
$78,345
$0 $10,000 $20,000 $30,000 $40,000 $50,000 $60,000 $70,000 $80,000 $90,000
Bahrain
Saudi Arabia
Qatar
GCC
UAE
Oman
Kuwait
USA
India
Germany
Hong Kong
Singapore
US$
Large proven crude oil
reserves have enabled the
member countries to offer
fuel at subsidized rates
The easy availability of
attractive finance options
also supports the demand
for vehicles
Page | 35
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
attractive finance options also supports the demand for vehicles. The GCC countries
barring Oman and Qatar, hiked their interest rates, following the increase in rates by the
US Federal Reserve System in December 2015
64
. Nevertheless, the banks are unlikely to
increase lending rates much in view of competition.
Public Transport System Still Under Development Phase
Earlier infrastructure developments in the GCC were focused mainly on roads and ports,
as most of the economic growth was driven by oil and petrochemical exports. With greater
economic diversification and rising expatriate population, the need for advanced national
as well as regional infrastructure such as metro, rail, bus, etc. has become inevitable. The
present capacity of public transport is not enough to meet the growing transportation
needs, even though efforts are being made to improve the national connectivity. The UAE
has relatively well-developed public transport network, but the other member nations have
a larger room for strengthening the national connectivity. A public transport system still
under development phase in the GCC has remained an important driver of vehicle sales.
Increasing road congestions are a testament to the dependency on motor vehicles in the
region. In view of this, the GCC countries have scaled up investments to enhance national
as well as regional connectivity by developing rail and metro systems. However,
commencement of these networks is likely to take time, thus keeping up the demand for
cars.
Aggressive Promotional Activities
Automobile dealers in the Gulf come up with several promotional activities including
discounts and freebies to lure car buyers during Ramadan, Eid al-Adha, Christmas, New
Year, Dubai Shopping Festival, and similar festivals / events during the year. In fact,
several consumers wait for such periods to buy vehicles and avail the attractive offers. In
addition to discounts, the dealers are focused more on providing value-adds in the form of
free registration, free insurance for one or more years, extended warranties, roadside
assistance, free accessories, and time-specific complimentary service or maintenance
packages, among others. Almost every automobile dealer in the region announces a range
of promotional offers during the month of Ramadan. Such seasonal campaigns would
continue to boost vehicle sales in the region.
Substantial Infrastructure Developments
Rising urbanization and robust government plans to create jobs and focus on non-oil
revenue has led to significant investments in infrastructure projects across the GCC.
Several transport, logistics, housing, hospitality, and entertainment projects are in various
stages of construction. As of July 2016, infrastructure projects worth US$ 407.9 billion
were in various stages of construction in the region
65
. Nearly 78% of these projects were in
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. A spate of projects related to construction of tourist
attraction, hotels, convention centers, and stadiums, among others are underway in the
UAE and Qatar as they prepare themselves to host the mega events of World Expo 2020
and FIFA World Cup 2022, respectively. Some of the other noteworthy projects under
construction in the region include Madina Metro in Saudi Arabia (cost of construction is
estimated at US$ 8.0 billion), Midfield Terminal Building in the UAE (US$ 3.6 billion), the
64
Source: ―Cost of borrowings on the rise across the GCC‖, Gulf News, October 19, 2016
65
Source: ―GCC Infrastructure Market Outlook 2016‖, BNC Network, July 2016
Automobile dealers in the
Gulf come up with several
promotional activities
including discounts and
freebies to lure car buyers
The present capacity of
public transport is not
enough to meet the
growing transportation
needs
Page | 36
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Gold Line Underground Doha Metro Network in Qatar (US$ 3.5 billion), and Kuwait
National Railway Network (US$ 10.0 billion). While decline in oil prices has affected fiscal
budgets of the GCC countries, governments are increasingly encouraging private sector
investments to support the execution of planned infrastructure projects. The ongoing
developments are likely to accelerate demand for trucks and other heavy vehicles for use
in the construction and logistics activities.
Flourishing Car Rental Business
The car rental market in the GCC is abuzz with growing tourist arrivals. The region attracts
several tourists to its religious cities, sporting events, shopping festivals, recreational
activities, and MICE events, among others. The member nations are taking concrete steps
to develop their tourism industry as a part of their revenue diversification strategy.
Consequently, international tourist arrivals in the region have grown at a CAGR of 8.2%
from 2010 to nearly 53 million in 2015
66
. Tourist arrivals are anticipated to grow further at
an annualized rate of 5.7% until 2020 (see Exhibit 34). Growth is likely to be largely driven
by expansion of two major mosques and relaxation of visa norms in Saudi Arabia and
development of tourist attractions in the UAE and Qatar ahead of their mega events. The
tourism industry is also set to receive a fillip from the plan to launch a unified visa program,
which will enable travel across the region on a single-entry visa valid for a month or a
multiple-entry visa valid for a year
67
.
The expected rise in tourist arrivals is likely to stimulate demand for vehicles from car
rental and travel companies. Car rental companies in the UAE such as Shift Car Rental,
part of AW Rostamani Group, and Fast Rent A Car, part of Emirates National Group, have
announced strong expansion plans with investments of AED 400 million (US$ 108.8
million
68
) and AED 60 million (US$ 16.3 million), respectively
69
. Such expansion activity is
66
Source: ―GCC Hospitality Industry‖, Alpen Capital, August 23, 2016
67
Source: ―GCC single visa to boost tourism‖, Saudi Gazette, May 2, 2016
68
Converted at exchange rate of 0.272
Exhibit 34: International Tourist Arrivals in the GCC
Source:
GCC Hospitality Industry Report – Alpen Capital – August 23, 2016
Note: E – Estimate, F – Forecast
19.2
20.1
24.3
17.0
18.2
23.8
11.6
12.1
14.6
2.9
3.1
4.1
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2015E 2016F 2020F
Million
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Bahrain
UAE
Saudi Arabia
52.8
55.7
69.5
CAGR:
2015-2020
2.3%
6.3%
7.0%
4.7%
7.0%
4.8%
The ongoing infrastructure
developments are likely to
accelerate demand for
trucks and other heavy
vehicles for use in the
construction and logistics
activities
Tourist arrivals in the GCC
are anticipated to grow at
an annualized rate of 5.7%
between 2015 and 2020
The expected rise in tourist
inflow is likely to stimulate
demand for vehicles from
car rental and travel
companies
Page | 37
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
likely to bolster demand for new vehicles. The car rental market in the UAE is projected to
grow swiftly at an annual average of 25% through 2020
70
. On the other hand, the car rental
market in Saudi Arabia, the largest and most mature in the Middle East, grew at a steady
pace of less than 1% during 2010-2015 and is expected to reach US$ 745 million in
2020
71
.
69
Source: ―AW Rostamani Group‘s car rental unit to invest Dhs 400m in expansion‖, Gulf Business, August 9, 2015;
―‗Expo 2020‘ to fuel car rental industry in UAE‖, The Gulf Time Emirates Business, March 15, 2016
70
Source: ―Expo 2020‘ to fuel car rental industry in UAE‖, The Gulf Time Emirates Business, March 15, 2016
71
Source: ―Saudi Arabia Car Rental and Vehicle Leasing Market is Expected to Reach to USD 745 million by 2020‖,
Ken Research, August 1, 2016
Page | 38
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
5. Challenges
Repercussions of Economic Slowdown
The persistent softness in oil prices since mid-2014 has significantly impacted the largely
oil-dependent GCC economies and widened their fiscal deficits to an all-time high. IMF has
forecasted fiscal deficit for the region at 12.3% of GDP in 2016
72
. As public finances come
increasingly under pressure, the member nations are thinking to implement tax reforms for
levying corporate taxes and VAT, among others in order to shore up their fiscal revenue
73
.
At the same time, subsidy cuts and other austerity measures are being announced to trim
down expenditure. Some government directives are precisely targeted at the automobile
sector. For instance, the Saudi Finance Ministry directed the government agencies in
October 2015 to freeze spending on purchase of new cars
74
. Economic slowdown coupled
with the government-induced tightening measures, also ensuing into job losses and pay
cuts particularly in the energy and construction sectors, are affecting the overall consumer
sentiments and spending in the GCC.
The challenging macroeconomic environment is having an adverse impact on automobile
sales in the region. All the countries, barring Saudi Arabia, witnessed a drop in new vehicle
sales during 2015. However, Saudi Arabia could not remain insulated for too long and new
vehicle sales in the country dropped 19.3% y-o-y during the first half of 2016
75
. The
slowdown has also led to a change in demand pattern, resulting into excessive inventory
among the dealers. For an instance, dealers in the UAE who mainly cater to re-export
markets are witnessing piling up of car inventory due to weak demand from the larger
Middle East and Africa region
76
. In view of this, car dealers are likely to slash prices to lure
buyers.
Deregulation of Fuel Prices
Fuel price reforms are a part of the broader program of the GCC governments on subsidy
cuts. The UAE was the first member nation to deregulate the price of transport fuel by
linking it to international market prices in August 2015
77
. Consequently, prices of petrol in
the country increased by 24%
78
. Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman followed suit by
raising petrol prices by up to 50% during December 2015-January 2016
79
. The increase in
prices of petrol amid a sluggish economic environment is likely to negatively influence the
demand for vehicles.
Implementation of VAT
The GCC governments are likely to introduce VAT at a uniform rate of 5% by January 1,
2018
80
. Although the proposed rate is not significantly high, it is expected to have a
negative influence on automobile sales volumes as effective sales prices rise. Sales of
high-value luxury cars could bear the biggest impact. In a survey conducted amongst
financial and investment professionals in the UAE, 79% felt that the automobile industry
will be the most affected by the introduction of VAT
81
. In addition to VAT, the IMF has
72
Source: ―Middle East and Central Asia – Regional Economic Outlook‖, IMF, April 2016
73
Source: ―Income tax: Will you leave GCC?‖, AME info, June 8, 2016
74
Source: ―Saudi Arabia Halts Government Spending Due To Oil Price Fall‖, Oilprice.com, October 9, 2015
75
Source: ―Emirates vehicles sales collapsed in the first half 2016‖, Focus2move, September 6, 2016
76
Source: ―Unsold inventory piles up for some UAE auto dealers‖, Gulf News, May 2, 2016
77
Source: ―Impact of fuel subsidy reforms marginal on GCC public finances‖, Zawya, February 21, 2016
78
Source: ―Diesel Prices Decreased by 29% and Gasoline increased by 24%‖, Dubai PR Network, August 2, 2015
79
Source: ―Gulf states seen to post deficits in 2016‖, Pressreader, March 24, 2016
80
Source: ―GCC nations on 'tight timeline' to prepare for VAT implementation‖, Gulf Times, June 22, 2016
81
Source: ―Luxury goods and car sales could bear brunt of VAT‖, Gulf News, June 6, 2016
Economic slowdown
coupled with the
government-induced
tightening measures are
affecting the overall
consumer sentiments and
spending in the GCC
The deregulation of petrol
prices amid a sluggish
economic environment is
likely to negatively impact
the demand for high-
powered vehicles
Page | 39
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
suggested that the GCC governments to consider implementation of excise duty on
various items, including cars
82
. For the UAE, it has proposed a 15% excise duty on cars
83
.
Notwithstanding the imminent rise in vehicle prices and resultant pressure on sales
volumes, the automobile industry may seek partial relief from the fact that discerning
consumers may line up to purchase cars before the new levies take effect.
High Competition
Presence of a large number of dealers makes the GCC automobile market highly
competitive. Several dealerships in the region are part of diversified local business groups
having a strong recognition in the market. Existence of almost all international vehicle
brands in different variants and segments has left customers with a wide array of choices.
The intensity of competition has resulted in price sensitivity and low brand loyalty among
end-consumers. The entry of Chinese brands and their frequent new launches in the last
few years have only enhanced the degree of competition.
A competitive market has driven dealers to constantly focus on offering innovative and
value-for-money products and develop effective marketing campaigns. On the other hand,
the authorized automobile dealers have to adhere to certain specifications stated by the
principal / automaker in terms of the design, size, and location of showrooms and service
centers. This adds to the operating costs of the dealers. Existence of a thriving used-car
market is also adding to the competitive pressures on new automobile dealers in the
region. The GCC region is witnessing restructuring and downsizing of workforce,
especially in the energy and construction sectors. Amid such a scenario, the supply of
used cars is increasing as many expatriates are selling off their vehicles as they move to
other countries. In view of the challenging market environment, dealers and distributors in
the region are increasing promotional offers and discounts on new vehicles.
Exchange Rate Fluctuations
Currencies of most of the GCC member nations are pegged to the US Dollar.
Subsequently, significant fluctuations in exchange rates between the US Dollar and
currencies of the major vehicle exporting nations to the region can influence automobile
prices in the GCC. The Japanese Yen has appreciated nearly 16% against the US Dollar
since the beginning of this year
84
. Being the largest source market for vehicle imports,
strengthening of Yen is likely to make imports costlier for the GCC countries at a time
when the region is already grappling with economic challenges. Similarly, appreciation of
Euro or the Korean Won can have an adverse impact on the GCC vehicle imports.
Reputational Issues of Car Manufacturers
Recall of vehicles because of certain manufacturing issues can affect the brand loyalty and
reputation of automakers and hence the sales. There have been many instances of vehicle
recalls in the past, however, most of the times manufacturers in collaboration with the
dealers handle recalls appropriately by scheduling maintenance visits. Since 2008 to 2015,
more than ten automakers have recalled millions of vehicles globally, owing to defective
82
Source: ―IMF asks for VAT, income and property tax‖, Khaleej Times, May 1, 2016
83
Source: ―UAE should introduce VAT, tax on cars, says IMF‖, Arabian Business, August 10, 2015
84
Source: Bloomberg
Recall of vehicles because
of certain manufacturing
issues can affect the brand
loyalty and reputation of
automakers and hence
sales
The intensity of
competition has resulted in
price sensitivity and low
brand loyalty among end-
consumers
Being the largest source
market for vehicle imports,
strengthening of Japanese
Yen is likely to make
imports costlier for the
GCC countries
Page | 40
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
airbags manufactured by Japan-based Takata Corp.
85
. In view of this, the authorized
dealers of such brands in the GCC ran campaigns to provide repair and follow-up
maintenance services to the customers. Another example of recall is by some luxury car
brands, which recalled over 93,500 cars and SUVs globally due to fuel leak problems
86
. In
case of occasions where recalls happen on a large scale coupled with reports on injury or
death, the brand reputation and thereby sales take a hit.
Grey Imports
In addition to imports via regional distributors, vehicles are being imported in the GCC
through other channels. The UAE in particular has witnessed an increase in grey imports,
which are sourced largely from the US, Europe, and Japan
87
. The main drivers behind
grey imports are availability of new cars from second hand dealers at a low price, access
to new models that are not offered in the country, and dealers in other countries looking to
offload their unsold inventory. Grey imports can either be done by an individual directly by
fulfilling custom procedures or can be bought from dealers specialized in importing and
selling grey imports. Such dealers are present in the UAE in the Al Awir Used Car
Complex in Dubai. Authorized car dealers in the UAE are facing the heat from grey
imports, which in certain cases affects the dealer‘s volumes by around 20%
88
.
Barriers to Entry
In the GCC automobile sector, certain government regulations act as barriers to entry. As
per the UAE Commercial Agencies Law, there can only be one dealer per car
manufacturer in each Emirate
89
. Moreover, commercial agents should be nationals or
companies registered in the UAE and owned entirely by the locals. Most of the countries in
the Middle East have a commercial agency law to protect their local agents. However,
Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar have recently amended their agency laws allowing principals to
appoint more than one agent
90
. Removal of such restrictions is likely to encourage
competition.
Shortage of Skilled Workforce and Growing Nationalization of Jobs
The GCC region faces a shortage of skilled workforce across various sectors, mainly as
the education system is yet to align itself with the requirements in the globalized job
market. A limited pool of local talent, alongside the increasing emphasis on nationalization
of jobs, is posing a challenge for the region‘s automobile industry. As countries like Saudi
Arabia, the UAE, and Oman witness investments in automobile manufacturing, the
requirement for skilled and trained technicians is set to increase. Inability to hire
employees with the right experience and skills could limit the growth of the sector. On the
other hand, Saudi Arabia is planning to increase nationalization of jobs in the automobile
sector to 100% by 2017
91
. Presently, only 50% of the sales representatives in the
85
Source: ―Timeline: Takata air bag recalls‖, Reuters, May 19, 2015
86
Source: ―Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche issue recalls‖, Emirates 24/7, January 29, 2015
87
Source: ―Grey imports thrive in the UAE‘s motoring marketplace‖, The National, March 19, 2015
88
Source: ―UAE‘s auto market sees flare up in grey imports‖, Gulf News, March 24, 2014
89
Source: ―Commercial Agency‖, UAE Interact; ―Buying a New Car in Dubai as an Expat‖, Living in Dubai, August
11, 2015
90
Source: ―Recent Changes to Commercial Agency Laws in Oman, Kuwait and Qatar‖, Amereller, November 8,
2016
91
Source: ―Automobile sector to be nationalized after Haj‖, Zawya, August 10, 2016
A limited pool of local
talent, alongside the
increasing emphasis on
nationalization of jobs, is
creating challenges for the
region’s automobile
industry
Authorized car dealers in
the UAE are facing the heat
from grey imports, which
in certain cases affects the
dealer’s volumes by
around 20%
In the GCC automobile
sector, certain government
regulations act as barriers
to entry
Page | 41
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
automobile sector in the Kingdom are nationals. Saudization of jobs will be applicable in
dealers‘ offices, car showrooms, and car rental outlets. There is no mention on
nationalization of jobs at the manufacturing units yet. A limitation on hiring expatriates
means a reduced pool of prospective skilled employees. Moreover, complete
nationalization of workforce is likely to inflate expenses of dealers, as they will have to pay
more to hire and retain local citizens. Oman also perceives a shortage of specialized
Omani technicians, while the country is focusing on developing the local automobile
manufacturing. The countries have established training institutes to provide more
technicians for the automobile industry. One such institute is the Saudi Japanese
Automobile High Institute, established in 2002, to provide automobile–related vocational
training. Leading vehicle dealers in Oman formed the National Automotive Higher Institute
in June 2015 to help locals pursue a career in automobiles
92
.
Regulations to Reduce Carbon Emissions
Rising environmental concerns over global warming are leading to imposition of stricter
regulations on greenhouse gas emissions and promotion of alternative fuel technologies in
the GCC. With motor vehicles seen as a significant contributor to air pollution, the
countries are considering a slew of measures for the sector. In November 2014, Saudi
Arabia introduced fuel economy standards based on the US Corporate Average Fuel
Economy (CAFE)
93
. The standards are being implemented in a phased manner starting
January 1, 2016 up to December 31, 2020 and will be applicable to all light vehicles, new
or used and imported or manufactured. Similarly, the Emirates Authority for
Standardisation and Metrology is set to introduce a few regulations in 2017 to lower
carbon emissions in the UAE
94
. Under the proposed norms, car manufacturers will be
penalized for selling vehicles above the average fuel economy standard and registration
fees on vehicles with high emission levels will be increased
95
. Another regulatory norm is
the anticipated implementation of the Euro IV emissions standards for heavy duty vehicles
in the GCC. High research and development costs associated with the Euro IV technology
is likely to add to automakers‘ cost making the vehicles more expensive to the buyers. In
case the automakers are not able to pass the net increase in cost to consumers, then the
margins of manufacturers and retailers are likely to be affected. Although the
implementation of the Euro IV emissions standards in the region is likely to be delayed
beyond the earlier target of September 2017
96
, the introduction in the future have may an
impact on the automobile sales.
The increased regulatory oversight on emissions is adding to the compliance and
technology costs for the automobile manufacturers, ultimately making the vehicles more
expensive for buyers. As a part of the pollution control efforts, the GCC governments are
also promoting sale and use of hybrid vehicles. Although the use of hybrid vehicles is
incentivized by the government, they sell at a higher price than conventional vehicles. For
instance, the average cost of hybrid vehicles in the UAE is around AED 2,000 (US$ 544.5)
higher than that of the conventional vehicles
95
. This leaves consumers with two options –
continue using the conventional vehicles and adhere to stricter regulations or pay higher
prices and switch to hybrid vehicles.
92
Source: ―Institute to train Omanis for auto sector jobs‖, Oman Daily Observer, June 30, 2015
93
Source: ―Outlook for GCC Automotive Demand‖, IHS Automotive, September 2015
94
Source: ―UAE aims to improve fuel efficiency of cars‖, The Filipino, October 3, 2016
95
Source: ―UAE officials consider ‗polluter pays‘ policy for motorists‖, The National, November 8, 2015
96
Source: ―GCC unlikely to move to Euro IV as planned in 2017‖, Construction Week Online, August 26, 2016
The increased regulatory
oversight on emissions is
adding to the compliance
and technology costs for
the automobile
manufacturers, ultimately
making the vehicles more
expensive
Page | 42
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
6. Trends
Growing Investments in Vehicle and Component Manufacturing
Presently there are a limited number of vehicle manufacturers in the GCC, with activity
limited to assembling of heavy vehicles. However, the situation is possibly going to change
in the future, as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman are receiving investments to set up
vehicle and related parts manufacturing facilities. Growing automotive demand in the
Middle East is luring global automakers to establish production base. The governments
are also providing incentives and devising plans to establish themselves as regional
automobile manufacturing hubs.
In Saudi Arabia, the government is developing a national automotive cluster as a part of
the NICDP with a target to produce 600,000 vehicles a year by 2025
97
. Some of the
incentives provided by the government to attract foreign investors to the cluster include
low-cost loans, exemption from income, land, and property taxes, zero duties on export
within the Greater Arab Free Trade Area, exemption from custom duties on imported
machinery and raw materials, and repatriation of capital and profits. Additionally, there are
other automobile assembly and related parts projects being developed in the Kingdom. In
2010, King Saud University entered into a cooperation agreement with Korea-based Digm
Automotive Technology to build a US$ 500 million car-manufacturing unit in Saudi
Arabia
98
. The project, yet to commence operations, encompasses production of the
country‘s first locally built car prototype – Gazal 1 – developed by the students of the
university. In May 2015, Saudi National Automobile Manufacturing Company (SNAM) and
Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (SAPIF), entered into a partnership with South
Korea‘s Daewoo International to build a car assembly plant
99
. Entailing an investment of
US$ 1 billion, the venture is majorly owned by SNAM with a 50% stake, followed by SAPIF
with a 35% interest and Daewoo holding the remaining stake. Anticipated to produce
150,000 vehicles annually by 2018, the plant will cater to the local demand and export to
other parts of the Gulf. Other OEMs who have expressed interest in setting up
manufacturing facilities in the Kingdom include Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler
99
.
Moreover, the government is looking at attracting automobile companies that can utilize
the raw materials currently produced by the Kingdom.
The UAE already has a handful of heavy vehicle assembling units, including
manufacturers such as Ashok Leyland and Hafilat Industries. In March 2016, Ashok
Leyland announced plans to invest US$ 10 million to triple the bus manufacturing capacity
in the UAE from present annual capacity of 2,000 vehicles
100
. The country also witnessed
couple of investments by automotive parts manufacturers in the previous year. In February
2015, Germany-based Cardan Service Network invested in a shaft manufacturing plant in
Dubai. The new facility provides custom-made shafts for trucks, light commercial vehicles,
and construction equipment in the Europe. In March 2015, Advanced Manufacturing
Solutions entered into a deal with Abu Dhabi‘s Khalifa Port Industrial Zone for building a
steel factory, which will manufacture automotive brake calipers and brake discs.
Oman through is sovereign wealth fund, Oman investment Fund (OIF), has made over a
couple of investments to develop local vehicle manufacturing landscape. In May 2014, OIF
formed a JV with Mowasalat – Qatar‘s public transport company – to build a bus assembly
97
Source: ―Automotive Cluster – Industry Development‖, National Industrial Clusters Development Program
98
Source: ―KSU partners with South Korea's Digm in $500 million automobile project‖, King Saud University,
December 29, 2010
99
Source: ―Saudi‘s automotive ambitions grow‖, Gulf Business, October 24, 2015; ―Saudi, Korean firms to build car
manufacturing plant‖, Arab News, May 16, 2015
100
Source: ―Ashok Leyland to triple plant capacity in Ras Al Khaimah‖, Arab News, March 6, 2016
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and
Oman are receiving
investments to set up
vehicle and related parts
manufacturing facilities
In March 2016, Ashok
Leyland announced plans
to invest US$ 10 million to
triple the bus
manufacturing capacity in
the UAE
Page | 43
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
plant in Oman at an estimated investment of around US$ 200 million
101
. About 70% of the
project will be funded by OIF and remaining by Qatar‘s transportation company. Once
operational, the unit is likely to have an annual production capacity of around 2,000 units.
In January 2016, OIF entered into a similar agreement with Iran Khodro Industrial Group to
establish a JV for building a car assembly unit at Duqm at an investment of US$ 200
million
102
. OIF owns a 57% interest in the venture. The project, expected to be launched
with an annual assembling capacity of about 20,000 cars, is eventually intended to be
developed into a full-fledged manufacturing unit in the future. Vehicles from this plant are
likely to be rolled out from 2017, and 80% of which will be exported. The Sultanate has a
strategic plan to commence automobile parts manufacturing in the country in a couple of
years and a car plant by 2020
103
. As a part of the plan, OIF acquired a 40% interest in Sigit
SpA, an Italian automobile parts manufacturer, in April 2015.
A Growing Automotive Aftermarket
Demand for automotive spare parts in the Middle East is projected to grow by ~6%
annually, from US$ 13.0 billion in 2015 to US$ 17.3 billion by 2020
104
. Dubai, the largest
automotive aftermarket in the GCC, registered automotive parts and accessories trade of
US$ 11.1 billion in 2015
105
. Based on value, the major products imported were sedan tires,
batteries, truck and bus tires, fuel filters, and clutches. The UAE re-exports around 60% of
its automobile components to the larger Middle East and African region
106
. The trade value
of automobile aftermarket products in Saudi Arabia was about US$ 2.6 billion in 2015
107
,
most of which was imports. Parts and accessories, with a trade value of US$ 996.5 million,
formed the largest imported product category, followed by tires and batteries.
A rapid increase in the number of vehicles on road in the GCC, a region typically
characterized by dry and hot climatic conditions, has created a vibrant market for
automotive parts and repair services. The constant need to replace batteries, tires, and
other components in commercial as well as passenger vehicles due to wear and tear in the
extreme climate has provided momentum to the industry. Further, cars aged over 10 years
and older are anticipated to represent 31% of the vehicle fleet in 2020
108
. An already
ageing vehicle fleet, with the tendency of owners holding on to their cars for a longer
duration amid the challenging economy is likely to accelerate demand for automotive parts
and services. On the other hand, the use of innovative technologies in vehicles has led to
a constant increase in need for new parts at repair centers.
Sensing the demand potential, international automotive aftermarket players are either in
the process of or considering options to establish presence in the region. This is evident
from the fact that the largest international trade show for the automobile aftermarket –
Automechanika – held in Dubai in May 2016 saw participation of over 2,000 exhibitors
(+7% y-o-y) from 58 countries
105
. Over 30,000 trade visitors attended the three-day event
in Dubai. The event takes place annually in many other countries, of which Dubai and
Jeddah are the hosts in the Middle East region. In February 2016, the Ministry of Economy
of the UAE abolished restrictions that tied warranty coverage to perform car maintenance
at dealer‘s workshop and service centers
109
. Instead, the customers can now carry out
101
Source: ―Mowasalat to open USD 200 mn assembly plant in Oman‖, BQ Magazine, May 4, 2014
102
Source: ―Iran‘s firm signs deal for car manufacturing unit in Oman‖, Times of Oman, January 17, 2016
103
Source: ―Oman‘s stake in Italian firm seen as a step towards car plant by 2020‖, Muscat Daily, April 22, 2015
104
Source: ―Digitisation, innovation and technology set to transform the global automotive aftermarket‖, Zawya,
September 28, 2016
105
Source: ―Dubai's auto parts trade valued at $11bn in 2015‖, Construction Week Online, May 12, 2016
106
Source: ―UAE, KSA lead region in car aftermarket trade‖, Arab News, March 30, 2013
107
Source: ―Saudi Arabia‘s aftermarket auto trade valued at $2.53b‖, Gulf News, September 16, 2016
108
Source: ―GCC car numbers to hit 19m by 2020‖, Gulf Digital News, March 15, 2016
109
Source: ―Compulsory condition of automobiles agency warranty abolished‖, Khaleej Times, February 10, 2016
A rapid increase in
vehicles on road in the
GCC coupled with its hot
climatic conditions has
created a vibrant market
for automotive parts and
repair services
The Sultanate has a
strategic plan to
commence automobile
parts manufacturing in the
country in a couple of
years and a car plant by
2020
Page | 44
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
maintenance and repairs at workshops of their choice. A similar initiative has been
undertaken by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce (MEC) of Qatar in November 2016
to end monopoly and encourage competition in the area of automobile maintenance and
repair services. Under this initiative, the MEC intends to offer customers multiple choices
in the areas of maintenance, warranty, and spare parts
110
. Additionally, accredited and
third party workshops will have the right to import spare parts from local dealers, affiliated
distributors of dealers, and international suppliers. Such initiatives are likely to bolster
competition in the automotive aftermarket.
Increasing Popularity of Chinese Brands
While the Japanese brands of vehicles remain popular in the GCC and the high-end
market continues to be dominated by European makes, Chinese brands are fast closing
the gap. Demand is being primarily steered by low pricing and less maintenance cost.
Buyers as well as dealers are also increasingly pleased with the performance of these
brands in terms of technology, quality, and safety. Between 2010 and 2015, Chinese
vehicle imports in the region grew at an annualized rate of 22.1%, compared to a single-
digit increase in imports from Japan and the US
111
.
Chinese vehicle sales in the UAE are forecasted to rise by 100% annually to capture a
double-digit market share by 2020, from just 2.7% in 2014
112
. Large Chinese
manufacturers such as SAIC Motor Corporation, Guangzhou Automobile Group, and Dong
Feng Motor participated in Dubai's International Motor Show 2015 to display their latest
models. Chinese buses are increasingly replacing Japanese and South Korean vehicles,
mainly in the school and tour bus segment in the UAE
113
. More than 1,600 state buses in
Dubai are of European make such as Mercedes-Benz, Neoplan, Solaris, and VDL, as they
comply with the Euro VI emission standards. However, Chinese buses are being widely
preferred by budget-conscious travel agencies, tour operators, and passenger transport
companies. Geely is one of the successful Chinese vehicle brands, which is swiftly
securing a foothold in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. The brand was launched in
Saudi Arabia during 2011, and within a year, it managed to gain a ~2% market share
114
.
Prior to the entry of Chinese brands, Korean brands had witnessed a similar trend in the
region. Today, brands such as Hyundai and Kia have garnered substantial market shares
in the GCC countries. To compete with the Chinese brands, Korean vehicle manufacturers
are actively looking at investing in setting up manufacturing units in the region.
Residents’ Penchant for Customizing Vehicles
The GCC consumers have developed a fetish to customize their vehicles, given their
relatively high spending power. Some of the popular custom works include stickers and
foils, pumping hydraulics, swinging doors, and themed bodies. The trend is more
noticeable in the UAE, as can be seen by the growing number of car accessory outlets
across the country. The car wrapping industry, in particular, in the UAE has experienced a
rapid growth in the last few years. The car wrapping concept had evolved as a means of
110
Source: ―Ministry of Economy and Commerce initiative to end monopoly and bolster competition in automotive
sector‖, Qatar Ministry of Economy and Commerce, November 15, 2016
111
Source: International Trade Centre
112
Source: ―Chinese car makers ready to manoeuvre the UAE market‖, Albawaba, April 20, 2015
113
Source: ―Chinese vehicle manufacturers focus on the Middle East‖, Gulf News, March 15, 2016
114
Source: ―Saudi Arabia: Migrant Workers and Mid-Income Group Drive Record Sales of Cheap Cars‖, Euromonitor
blog, March 28, 2015
Between 2010 and 2015,
Chinese vehicle imports in
the region grew at an
annualized rate of 22.1%
The UAE’s vehicle
customization market is
set to grow due to the large
presence of motor
enthusiasts, who seek to
customize vehicles
Page | 45
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
advertising, but its ability to enhance a vehicle‘s uniqueness has fortified its demand
among the vehicle owners. The UAE‘s vehicle customization market is set to grow due to
the large presence of motor enthusiasts, who seek to customize vehicles with full body
wraps and other accessories. Additionally, a persistent demand for car wrapping from
companies for advertorial purpose is likely to support the trend in vehicle customization.
Increasing Technology Adoption
The GCC region has a high level of smartphone and internet penetration, with over 75% of
the population connected to the internet
115
and more than two mobile connections per
person
116
. Over 90% of internet users in the region are constantly on the social networking
sites
117
. The high penetration and use of social media are attributed to the region‘s young
population base, particularly the tech-savvy millennials. They spend quality time on the
internet looking for reviews, ratings, and recommendations to direct their buying decisions.
In the developed markets globally, nearly 80% of the new car buyers and nearly all of the
used-car buyers spend quality time on the internet for accessing information on the
vehicles and dealers/sellers
118
. To benefit from the trend, most of the major automobile
dealers in the Middle East are using internet and social media to expand customer base.
In a survey of car dealers in the Middle East, 88% of the participants said they are using
the internet to showcase their offerings to customers, while 52% of the dealers are using
social media
119
.
On the other hand, internet combined with new technologies is revolutionizing the
automobile industry globally, with the advent of connected vehicles. Such vehicles are
equipped with wireless local area network devices that enable drivers to connect with other
devices inside or outside the car. It helps in monitoring the performance of vehicles in real-
time, thus making it easier to diagnose technical or mechanical issues. Few years back,
only about 10% of cars world over had certain aspects of built-in-connectivity interface.
This proportion is anticipated to reach around 90% by 2020
120
. Some of the new popular
in-car interfaces include Apple‘s CarPlay and Google‘s Android Auto and Projected Mode.
The connected car market in the Middle East and Africa region is projected to be worth
~US$ 950 million by the end of 2016
120
.
The UAE has witnessed introduction of such technology-enabled cars by Ford (MyFord
Touch technology in Ford Edge in 2011) and Nissan (Connected Infotainment Platform in
Nissan Altima in 2013 and Nissan Smart Car mobile application in 2015). As a part of
Dubai Green Mobility Initiative, 10% of new vehicles to be purchased by certain
government bodies in the next few years will be electric and hybrid vehicles
121
. These
vehicles will have moderate to advanced connectivity modules for in-car entertainment and
engine diagnostics. Qatar also plans to initiate a pilot project – V2X – to test connected
cars
122
. With a commercial rollout planned in 2019, the pilot project will be implemented in
phases starting 2017.
Another breakthrough in the automobile sector is the development of autonomous or
driverless cars. The UAE ranked third in the world in terms of eagerness to use self-driving
vehicles, with 70% of consumers willing to take a ride in a fully driverless car and 47%
115
Source: ―Time is right for GCC states to set up universal internet access‖, The National, January 28, 2016
116
Source: ―GCC Mobile Markets‖, TechPolis, December 2015
117
Source: ―Outlook for GCC Automotive Demand‖, IHS Automotive, September 2015
118
Source: ―Middle East car market expected to witness strong growth‖, Technical Review, June 22, 2015
119
Source: ―Exponential growth‖, Zawya, July 20, 2015
120
Source: ―Connected cars: Dubai's big theme for coming years‖, Khaleej Times, February 4, 2016
121
Source: ―Dubai mulls incentives to switch e-cars‖, Emirates 24/7, August 12, 2016
122
Source: ―Connected vehicles technology to be tested in Qatar next year‖, Doha News, September 19, 2016
The high penetration and
use of social media are
driven by the region’s
young population base,
particularly the tech-savvy
millennials
Internet combined with
new technologies is
revolutionizing the
automobile industry
globally, with the advent of
connected vehicles
Page | 46
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
willing to pay more for the same
123
. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai, unveiled the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy in
April 2016, with an aim of having 25% of transportation trips in Dubai through smart and
driverless vehicles by 2030
124
. A 10-seater driverless vehicle named EZ10 is being put on
trial in phases in the Emirate. Not to be left behind, Saudi Arabia is also considering to
include driverless cars in its US$ 100 billion project of King Abdullah Economic City
125
.
Evolution of such new technologies in vehicles is likely to enhance the appeal and size of
the GCC automobile sector.
Entry of Taxi-hailing service providers
Mobile application-based taxi-hailing service provider, Uber, first entered the GCC market
in 2013 by launching its services in Dubai. It has now grown to having presence in the
major cities of four countries in the region – the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar.
The US-based company, which has operations in over 70 countries and close to 500
cities, is experiencing robust demand and has committed investing US$ 250 million in the
Middle East
126
. Its closest competitor in the region is Careem, which was founded in 2012
in Dubai. The homegrown company, which also has the first mover advantage and larger
market coverage in the region (present in all the GCC countries, except Oman), is also
witnessing a strong momentum in application installations and monthly active users since
inception. Although the services of both Uber and Careem generally come at a premium to
that of the traditional taxi operators, the quality of customer service and convenience are
the two factors that have defined their success.
The taxi-hailing service providers continue to explore new avenues of growth in the region
by looking at addressing the gaps in public transportation while adhering to government
regulations. One idea is to allow commuters to pool their rides with others, thus making the
services affordable for more users. While this can unlock additional opportunities for
automobile manufacturers and dealers in the form of demand of new passenger cars for
expansion of the taxi fleet, it may also lead to some degree of cannibalization. Consumers
may prefer using convenient taxi services to owning cars, thus circumventing the related
issues like cost of ownership, shortage of parking space in main cities, and encountering
peak hour traffic. However, with the taxi-hailing business still in the nascent stage in the
GCC, its precise impact on car demand can be gauged only over the next few years.
123
Source: ―UAE demand for self-driving cars ranked 3rd globally‖, Gulf News, August 15, 2016
124
Source: ―25% of all transportation in Dubai will be smart and driverless by 2030: Mohammad Bin Rashid‖, Gulf
News, April 25, 2016
125
Source: ―King Abdullah Economic City redraws master plan to make way for driverless cars‖, The National,
February 23, 2016
126
Source: ―How US technology company Uber has transformed the Middle East‖, The National, August 30, 2016
The taxi-hailing service
providers continue to
explore new avenues of
growth in the region by
looking at addressing the
gaps in public
transportation
Page | 47
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
7. Merger and Acquisition (M&A) Activities
Very few M&A transactions have been announced in the GCC automotive sector over the
last five years. Among the deals with a disclosed value, the largest was the Al-Futtaim
Group‘s acquisition of CMC Holdings Ltd. for US$ 86.6 million in 2013 (see Exhibit 35).
Most of the transactions during the period have been outbound, the latest being those by
Oman Investment Fund (sovereign wealth fund) and Riyadh Valley Co. (venture capital
arm of King Saud University) in 2015. While Riyadh Valley Co. acquired the Japan-based
GLM Co. purely as a financial investment, Oman Investment Fund acquired a 40% interest
in the Italian automotive parts manufacturer Sigit SpA from a strategic perspective
127
. This
transaction is largely seen as a prelude to Oman setting up an automobile parts
manufacturing unit in the near future and eventually foraying into vehicle manufacturing.
127
Source: ―Oman‘s stake in Italian firm seen as a step towards car plant by 2020‖, Muscat Daily, April 22, 2015
Exhibit 35: Major M&A Deals in the GCC Automobile Industry
Acquirer
Acquirer’s
Country
Target Company
Target’s
Country
Target’s Business
Year
Consideration
(US$ Million)
Percent
Sought (%)
Al-Futtaim Group
UAE
CMC Holdings Ltd.
Kenya
An exclusive distributor of Ford,
Mazda, Volkswagen, Suzuki,
Maruti, Nissan, and MAN in East
Africa
2013
86.6
100%
Olayan Saudi
Investment Co.
Saudi Arabia
GB Auto SAE
Egypt
Engaged in automotive assembly,
manufacturing, sales & distribution,
financing and after-sales services
2014
33.0
5%
Riyadh Valley Co.
Saudi Arabia
GLM Co. Ltd.
Japan
Engaged in the manufacture of
electric cars and related
components
2015
14.3
N/A
Oman Investment
Fund
Oman
Sigit SpA
Italy
Engaged in the manufacture and
sale of automotive parts such as
thermoplastic and rubber
components
2015
N/A
40%
International
Creative Co. for
Industries
Saudi Arabia
Delta Automotive
Industry Ltd.
Saudi
Arabia
Engaged in the manufacture of
ambulances, special purpose cars,
and rescue parts
2014
N/A
100%
Tawazun Holding
Co. LLC
UAE
Al Jaber Land
Systems
UAE
Engaged in the manufacture of
vehicle and vehicle systems for the
UAE Armed Forces
2013
N/A
60%
Abdul Latif Jameel
Co. Ltd
Saudi Arabia
Toyotasa Toyota-
Sabanci Pazarlama
& Satis AS
Turkey
Engaged in the manufacture and
retail of cars, trucks, SUVs, and
other vehicles in Turkey
2012
N/A
25%
Hamad Holding
UAE
Lumeneo SAS
France
Engaged in the manufacture and
sale of electric cars
2012
N/A
15%
Source:
Thomson Reuters Eikon
Among the deals with a
disclosed value, the largest
was the Al-Futtaim Group’s
acquisition of CMC
Holdings Ltd. for US$ 86.6
million in 2013
Page | 48
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Country Profiles
Country Profiles
Page | 49
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Macro-economic Indicators
Indicators
Unit
2015
2016F
2020F
GDP growth at
constant prices
%
3.5
1.2
2.3
GDP per capita
based on PPP
US$
53,802
54,078
59,859
Population
mn
31.4
32.0
34.7
Passenger cars in
use
‗000s
4,374*
4,571
5,647
New passenger car
sales
‗000s
672
538
743
Source: IMF October 2016, OICA, Alpen Capital
Note: F Forecasted, * Estimated
Key Players
Company
Activity
Abdullatif Alissa Group
Holding Co.
Distributor for Nissan, Toyota, Mazda,
Hyundai, Kia, Honda, and Isuzu
Abdul Latif Jameel Group
Distributor for Toyota, Lexus, Hino,
Daihatsu, and Ford
Balubaid Group of
Companies
Exclusive distributor for Chevrolet,
GMC, Cadillac, Buick, Opel, Pontiac,
Subaru, Daihatsu, and Peugeot
E.A. Juffali & Brothers
Exclusive distributor for Mercedes-
Benz
Haji Husein Alireza & Co.
Ltd.
Distributor for Aston Martin, Mazda,
Peugeot, Geely, Maxus, Yuejin, and
MAN
Trend in New Vehicle Sales
Source:
OICA
450
460
540
570
633
672
150
130
165
170
196
158
600
590
705
740
828
830
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars
Commercial Vehicles
Saudi Arabia
Key Growth Drivers
Favorable demography:
IMF expects the Kingdom‘s
population to grow at a CAGR of 2.0% between 2015 and
2020. An expanding population base coupled with rising
urbanization is expected to remain the major driver for vehicle
sales.
Growing tourism:
Being a major religious tourist destination,
Saudi Arabia attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Saudi
government‘s relaxed visa rules and expansion of the
mosques are likely to provide further impetus to the country‘s
tourism. This in turn is likely to create demand for vehicles
from car rental and travel companies.
Local vehicle manufacturing:
With an aim to develop local
vehicle manufacturing hub, Saudi government is offering
various incentives to attract manufacturers and ancillary units.
While a US$ 1.0 billion vehicle assembly project is already
under construction by a couple of Saudi firms in partnership
with Korea-based Daewoo International, other major
international automakers have also expressed interest to
establish production units. Increase in manufacturing activity is
likely to strengthen the automobile sector.
Infrastructure developments:
Several large infrastructure
projects are under construction in the Kingdom, including the
Riyadh Metro, Dammam Rail, and multiple airport expansions.
Such projects are driving demand for commercial vehicles.
Recent Industry Developments
In October 2016, Cadillac International and their exclusive
dealer in Saudi Arabia – Al Jomaih Automotive Company
(AAC) – announced plans to expand the Cadillac brand
presence in the Kingdom. Cadillac will review the plan and
strategy of AAC with a focus on sales, pricing, network,
strategic brand development, marketing, and product portfolio
planning.
In June 2016, Arabian Vehicles and Trucks Industry Co. Ltd.
rolled off the first Saudi-built Renault truck from their state-of-
the-art assembly facility in King Abdullah Economic City. The
facility is expected to produce about 4,000 trucks annually for
both Volvo and Renault brands on the same assembly line.
Page | 50
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Macro-economic Indicators
Indicators
Unit
2015
2016F
2020F
GDP growth at
constant prices
%
4.0
2.3
3.7
GDP per capita
based on PPP
US$
67,217
67,696
74,488
Population
mn
9.6
9.9
11.1
Passenger cars in
use
‗000s
1,952*
2,039
2,525
New passenger car
sales
‗000s
214
172
267
Source: IMF October 2016, OICA, Alpen Capital
Note: F Forecasted, * Estimated
Key Players
Company
Activity
Abu Dhabi Motors LLC
Exclusive dealer for BMW, MINI, and
Rolls-Royce
Al Ghandi Auto Group
Distributor for Chevrolet, GMC, Fiat,
Proton, Ssangyong, Iveco, and Lancia
Al Habtoor Motors LLC
Distributor for Mitsubishi, Fuso, Chery,
Bentley, and McLaren, among others
Al Nabooda Automobiles
LLC
Authorized dealer for Audi, Porsche,
and Volkswagen
Al Rostamani Group
Distributor for Suzuki, Citroen, Renault
Trucks, and Tata Motors among others
Al Tayer Motors LLC
Distributor for Ford, Lincoln, Ferrari,
Maserati, Jaguar, and Land Rover
Al-Futtaim Group
Distributor for Honda, Volvo, Chrysler,
Dodge, and Jeep, among others
Ali & Sons Holding LLC
Exclusive distributor for Volkswagen,
Audi, Porsche, and Skoda
AW Rostamani Group
Exclusive distributor for Nissan, Infiniti,
and Renault, among others
Liberty Automobiles Co.
Authorized dealer for Chevrolet,
Cadillac, and Opel
Trend in New Vehicle Sales
Source: OICA
137
193
212
207
207
214
31
51
57
56
56
43
168
244
269
263
263
257
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars
Commercial Vehicles
Recent Industry Developments
In September 2016, the Emirates Authority for Standardisation
and Metrology (ESMA) announced a new regulation for the
automobile spare parts industry, aimed at controlling the entry
and usage of counterfeit parts in the country. The regulation
specifies standards for safety, performance, and technical
accuracy of the spare parts, in addition to creating a database
of all the parts manufactured or imported in the country.
In August 2016, ESMA launched a new regulation for electric
vehicles (EV) in order to reduce the country‘s carbon footprint
and develop a sustainable economy. As per the new
standards, EVs entering the country should fulfill minimum
requirements related to material used in the batteries and
adaptability to weather and fire as well as crash safety levels.
In August 2016, Al Habtoor Motors opened the world‘s largest
six-storey Bentley showroom in Dubai, costing over US$ 32.7
million, in line with its aim to increase market share and sales.
Key Growth Drivers
Affluent buyers
: As per IMF, GDP per capita (PPP) in the
UAE is likely to grow at a CAGR of 2.1% between 2015 and
2020, translating into rise in disposable income. Growing
affluence is cascading into an increased spending on luxury
cars as well as ability to replace and explore new vehicles.
Rising tourism and infrastructure developments:
International tourist arrivals in the UAE are expected to grow
by 7.0% annually from 2015 to 2020 (Source: GCC Hospitality
Industry Report). Several infrastructure developments are
underway in the country ahead of the World Expo 2020.
Increase in tourist arrivals alongside a strong pipeline of
projects including tourist attractions, hotels, and expansion of
airport capacity and the Dubai World Trade Centre are likely to
spur demand for passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
Automotive trade:
With substantial automotive imports, the
UAE not only feeds its domestic demand but also re-exports to
the larger Middle East region. Various automobile ancillary
units are operating in the freezones due to the strategic
location and business-friendly environment. Increasing
demand for vehicles alongside the country‘s favorable
investment climate is offering significant opportunities for
automakers to set up production units.
UAE
Page | 51
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Macro-economic Indicators
Indicators
Unit
2015
2016F
2020F
GDP growth at
constant prices
%
1.1
2.5
2.9
GDP per capita
based on PPP
US$
70,542
71,264
77,657
Population
mn
4.1
4.2
4.7
Passenger cars in
use
‗000s
1,596*
1,652
1,986
New passenger car
sales
‗000s
124
87
136
Source: IMF October 2016, OICA, Alpen Capital
Note: F Forecasted, * Estimated
Key Players
Company
Activity
Al-Babtain Group
Distributor for Infiniti, Nissan, Citroen,
Renault, CMC, Tadano Limited, and
JMC
Ali Alghanim & Sons
Automotive Co. W.L.L.
Distributor for BMW, Rolls-Royce,
MINI, Land Rover, and McLaren
Kuwait Automotive
Imports Company W.L.L.
Distributor for Mazda, Peugeot, Geely,
and Eicher
Yusuf A. Alghanim &
Sons Automotive
Distributor for Chevrolet, Cadillac, and
Saab
Trend in New Vehicle Sales
Source: OICA
90
95
117
125
126
124
20
20
24
27
26
20
110
115
140
152
152
144
0
30
60
90
120
150
180
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars
Commercial Vehicles
Kuwait
Key Growth Drivers
Favorable demographics:
The Kuwaiti population is
estimated to grow at a 2.8% CAGR between 2015 and 2020
(Source: IMF). During the period,
GDP per capita (PPP) is
forecasted to grow at an annualized rate of 1.9%.
Such
demographics create an environment conducive for growth of
the automobile industry.
Growing tourism:
Kuwait‘s tourism industry is expected to
increase driven by the government‘s plans
to develop the
Failaka Island and the City of Silk project. Rise in tourist
arrivals is likely to create demand for buses and taxis for
facilitating the transportation of tourists.
Transport infrastructure:
Kuwait has several infrastructure
projects in pipeline including the Al Jahra road project, Sheikh
Jaber Causeway, Kuwait City Metro, and the second terminal
of Kuwait International Airport. Construction of such projects is
expected to drive demand for medium and heavy commercial
vehicles.
Recent Industry Developments
In April 2016, Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons Automotive (Yusuf),
a distributor of Chevrolet vehicles in Kuwait, signed a
partnership deal with Automak Automotive Company (AAC), a
vehicles rental and leasing company. Under the deal, Yusuf is
likely to supply 240 Chevrolet Tahoes SUV to AAC on a rental
basis with a contract of up to two years.
In December 2015, Northern Gulf Trading Company, an
exclusive dealer of Hyundai vehicles in Kuwait signed an
agreement with Priority Automobile to provide 300 vehicles for
lease. The agreement also includes support services such as
comprehensive insurance, replacement car services, roadside
assistance, and vehicle servicing.
In November 2013, the Kuwaiti government announced its
plan to impose taxes on nationals who own more than two
cars and on expatriates who have more than one car. The
move is an attempt to reduce number of vehicles and thereby
ease traffic congestion.
Page | 52
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Macro-economic Indicators
Indicators
Unit
2015
2016F
2020F
GDP growth at
constant prices
%
3.3
1.8
1.8
GDP per capita
based on PPP
US$
43,707
43,737
46,591
Population
mn
3.8
4.0
4.5
Passenger cars in
use
‗000s
745*
773
889
New passenger car
sales
‗000s
121
110
135
Source: IMF October 2016, OICA, Alpen Capital
Note: F Forecasted, * Estimated
Key Players
Company
Activity
Oman Trading
Establishment LLC
Distributor for Cadillac, Chevrolet,
Chery, Hyundai, Isuzu, Subaru, and
SsangYong
Saud Bahwan Group
Distributor for Toyota, Lexus, Ford,
Kia, Hino, and MAN
Suhail Bahwan
Automobiles LLC
Distributor for Nissan, Infiniti, and
Renault
Zubair Automotive Group
Distributor for Mitsubishi, Bentley,
Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, Chrysler,
Jeep, Dodge, Ram, among others
Trend in New Vehicle Sales
Source: OICA
115
115
130
140
139
121
63
55
75
75
70
47
178
170
205
215
208
168
0
50
100
150
200
250
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars
Commercial Vehicles
Oman
Key Growth Drivers
Growing tourism: International
tourist arrivals are expected
to rise in view of the Omani government‘s plan to develop
various tourist spots and encourage private investments in
development of tourism-related infrastructure in the country.
Demand for cars and buses from tour operators and car rental
companies are likely to see an upsurge with increasing tourist
arrivals in the country.
Domestic manufacturing:
Omani government is planning to
build automotive parts manufacturing plants in the coming
years and eventually build a vehicle production unit by 2020.
In view of this, the sovereign wealth fund, OIF, has invested in
automotive manufacturers such as Qatar‘s Karwa
Automobiles, Iran‘s Khodro Industrial Group, and Italy‘s Sigit
SpA. Establishment of local manufacturing units is likely to
fortify the country's automobile sector.
Automotive exports:
Oman is actively engaged in
automotive re-exports owing to its strategic location, good
infrastructure, and transport connectivity.
Most of the exports
are to African markets. Growing demand for vehicles in the
region and setting-up of manufacturing plants in the Sultanate
are likely to strengthen automotive trading activity.
Recent Industry Developments
In August 2016, Sigit Oman Automotive Group (SOAG), a
multinational auto component manufacturer, announced the
Vision 2020 investment plan that seeks to underpin the
development of automobile sector in Oman over the long-
term.
In June 2016, Oman‘s Duqm Special Economic Zone
Authority signed an agreement with Qatar‘s Karwa
Automobiles for allocating one million square meters of land
for the construction of an automobile assembly plant.
In January 2016, OIF signed a deal with Iran Khodro Industrial
Group for the setting up a US$ 200 million car assembly line
at Duqm with an initial capacity of around 20,000 units
annually.
Page | 53
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Macro-economic Indicators
Indicators
Unit
2015
2016F
2020F
GDP growth at
constant prices
%
3.7
2.6
2.6
GDP per capita
based on PPP
US$
132,870
129,727
147,747
Population
mn
2.4
2.6
2.8
Passenger cars in
use
‗000s
699*
731
912
New passenger car
sales
‗000s
69
51
76
Source: IMF October 2016, OICA, Alpen Capital
Note: F Forecasted, * Estimated
Key Players
Company
Activity
Abdullah Abdulghani &
Bros. Co. W.L.L.
Sole distributor for Toyota and Lexus
Alfardan Group
Distributor for Rolls-Royce, Ferrari,
Land Rover, BMW, MINI, Jaguar, and
Maserati
Jaidah Group
Sole distributor for Chevrolet
Sahel Al Hamad Al Mana
Company
Sole distributor for Nissan, Infiniti, and
Renault
Nasser Bin Khaled Al
Thani & Sons Holding
Company
Distributor for Mercedes Benz, Spyker
Sport Cars, Mitsubishi, Harley
Davidson, MV Agusta, and Kawasaki
Trend in New Vehicle Sales
Source: OICA
40
45
60
65
72
69
16
16
20
20
21
17
56
61
80
85
93
86
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars
Commercial Vehicles
Qatar
Key Growth Drivers
Encouraging demographics:
High urbanization rate and
growing affluent consumer base supported by an increasing
number of expatriates is propelling demand for different types
of passenger cars. IMF has forecasted the country‘s
population to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% between 2015 and
2020. An increasing population base is expected to further
support demand for automobiles in the country.
Rising tourism:
Qatari government is promoting leisure and
business tourism in the country by developing sites such as
the National Museum of Qatar, beaches, and a convention
center, among others. International tourist arrivals are
anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.0% between 2015 and
2020 (Source: GCC Hospitality Industry Report). Inflow of
tourists is likely to drive demand for vehicles from car rental
and travel agencies.
Infrastructure projects:
Qatar is investing US$ 200 billion on
infrastructure projects to prepare the country for hosting the
2022 FIFA World Cup. Construction of stadiums, hotels, and
transportation facilities is likely to propel demand for trucks
and other heavy commercial vehicles in the country.
Recent Industry Developments
In June 2016, Qatar Mobility Innovation Centre disclosed its
plan to launch the pilot phase of the Connected Vehicle
Technology – V2X. The plan includes deployment of about 30-
50 equipped vehicles and 20-30 roadside computing devices,
by late 2017. The initiative is in line with its efforts over the
past few years to introduce innovative solutions to increase
road safety.
In February 2016, Qatar‘s first domestically manufactured
supercar, Elibriea, was unveiled at the 16
th
annual Qatar
Motor Show in Doha. Elibriea, the gold prototype concept car
is designed and built almost entirely in Qatar.
In February 2016, Qatar‘s Ministry of Economy and
Commerce established nine new warranty clauses to be
complied by local dealerships, in order to make service and
repairs convenient for car owners in Qatar.
Page | 54
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Macro-economic Indicators
Indicators
Unit
2015
2016F
2020F
GDP growth at
constant prices
%
2.9
2.1
2.1
GDP per capita
based on PPP
US$
49,601
50,303
54,497
Population
mn
1.3
1.3
1.4
Passenger cars in
use
‗000s
957*
1,019
1,197
New passenger car
sales
‗000s
48
38
53
Source: IMF October 2016, OICA, Alpen Capital
Note: F Forecasted, * Estimated
Key Players
Company
Activity
Behbehani Brothers
W.L.L.
Distributor for Volkswagen, Fiat,
Porsche, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM,
and Alfa Romeo
Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo
Company B.S.C. (c)
Sole distributor for Toyota and Lexus
Euro Motors Company
SPC
Distributor for BMW, MINI, Land
Rover, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Ferrari,
Maserati, and BMW Mottorad
National Motor Company
Distributor for Honda, Chevrolet, GMC,
and Cadillac
Trend in New Vehicle Sales
Source: OICA
29
26
40
44
50
48
6
5
7
10
12
11
35
31
47
53
61
58
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Thousands
Passenger Cars
Commercial Vehicles
Bahrain
Key Growth Drivers
Increasing population and income levels:
IMF projects the
population in Bahrain to grow at a CAGR of 1.5% between
2015 and 2020. Further, GDP per capita (PPP) is estimated to
grow at a CAGR of 1.9% during the same period. Rising
disposable income and population is likely to fuel the demand
for automobiles in the country.
Growing tourism:
Bahrain is known for hosting sporting
event of Formula 1 Grand Prix. The country is also a gateway
to holiday and weekend visitors from nearby GCC countries,
especially Saudi Arabia. The government is promoting tourism
by developing
its beaches and promoting the concept of island
living. Increase in tourist arrivals is likely to augment demand
for cars and buses from the car rental companies and travel
agencies in the country.
Infrastructure development:
The government is undertaking
expansion and modernization of Bahrain International Airport
and constructing the King Hamad Causeway to support the
anticipated rise in tourist arrivals. Such developments are
likely to augment demand for trucks and other heavy
commercial vehicles in the country.
Recent Industry Developments
Motorcity, the exclusive distributor of a wide range of
passenger and commercial vehicle brands in Bahrain,
introduced the Daewoo truck brand in December 2015.
In December 2015, Euro Motors, the exclusive distributor for
Jaguar Land Rover in Bahrain, inaugurated its new US$ 30
million state-of-the-art showroom in Sitra.
In February 2015, International Motor Trading Agency, a
division of Khalil Bin Ebrahim Kanoo Company opened a new
Mazda sales, services, and spare parts showroom in
Ma'ameer, Bahrain.
Page | 55
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Profiles
Company Profiles
Page | 56
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1958, Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. W.L.L. (AAB) is the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles in Qatar. AAB
offers a range of passenger cars and commercial vehicles including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, coupes, sports, hybrids, vans, pick-
ups, and buses. The company also deals in sale of pre-owned vehicles and provides car leasing and rental services. Additionally,
AAB offers a comprehensive range of automobile spare parts and after sales services through its extensive network of service
centers and branches spread across Qatar. AAB has also forayed into commercial and industrial business by offering construction
machinery, material handling equipment, and warehousing solutions, among others.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Toyota:
As an exclusive distributor of Toyota in Qatar, AAB offers their entire range of passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
Lexus: Being a sole dealer of Lexus in Qatar, AAB is engaged in the sale of all Lexus models.
Pre-Owned:
In 1995, AAB launched the trade-in business for providing a platform to buy and sell used cars of Toyota and Lexus
brands. Under this business, the company offers different financing options including cash, bank loans, and in-house finance.
AAB Rent A Car:
Established in 1999, the Rent A Car business provides vehicle leasing and rental services through a fleet of
7,500 vehicles. Additionally, some of the other services offered includes comprehensive insurance, unlimited mileage, routine
maintenance, replacement vehicles (in case of mechanical problem / accident), and chauffeur driven services.
After Sales Division: Under this segment, the company
offers a complete range of after sales services and spare parts. The
main service center is located in Salwa industrial area and there are another eight quick service centers. All the service centers
are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and sophisticated equipment and tools with a capacity to handle 950-1,000
vehicles daily. The company maintains a stock of over 100,000 spare part lines in its Central Parts Depot. The spare parts are
supplied through its nine service centers and seven branches spread across Qatar, in addition to four authorized dealers.
Commercial and Industrial:
Under this division, AAB offers construction equipment, generators, forklifts and material handling
equipment, warehousing and storage solutions, automotive solutions, security solutions, and cleaning equipment. For the same,
the company has partnered with brands such as 3M, Kawasaki, Endress, Toyota forklifts, BT, Bendi, Godrej, Kardex, Sumitomo
tire, Eternity Tyres, Exide, and Fiorentini.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In May 2016, AAB entered into partnership with Germany-based Endress for industrial generators and Switzerland-based Kardex
Remstar for automated storage solutions.
In April 2016, AAB won marketing award for Excellence and Outstanding Customer Satisfaction for the year 2015 from Toyota
Motor Corporation.
In November 2015, AAB inaugurated its ninth quick service center, featuring ten working bays and two maintenance bays,
located at Al Aziz Petrol Station along Salwa Road.
Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. W.L.L. (Privately Owned) Qatar
Source: Company Website
Page | 57
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1940, Abdullatif Alissa Group Holding Company (Alissa Group) is a Riyadh-based conglomerate with business
interests in automobiles, real estate, consumer finance, investment banking, private equity, building materials, and manufacturing.
Having started business as an importer and seller of automobiles to Aramco in the 1950s, Alissa Group today has emerged as a
pioneer of automotive sales, service, and leasing in Saudi Arabia. Alissa Group manages the automotive operations through
National General Automotive Company (NAT).
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
NAT: As an integrated automotive holding company,
NAT manages the automobile business through subsidiaries including,
Alissa Automotive Company (AACO), Alissa Universal Motors (AUM), and the General Automotive Company (Autostar). NAT
offers vehicles of brands like Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, and Isuzu, among others.
o AACO:
It is the first and flagship automotive company of Alissa Group. AACO is engaged in the sale of new Japanese
vehicle brands, certified used cars, and spare parts along with provision of after sales services through a network of six
showrooms in the central region of the Kingdom.
o AUM:
The subsidiary is an authorized dealer for Isuzu Motors in Saudi Arabia. Through its distribution channels, AUM sells
commercial vehicles of Isuzu Motors, along with providing related spare parts and after sales services.
o AutoStar:
Established in 1998, AutoStar is a multi-brand automotive retailer and after sales service provider in Saudi Arabia.
It operates through a network of 21 showrooms, 33 spare parts outlets, and 8 workshops across the Kingdom.
Al-Yusr Installment Company: Started in 1990,
this company is the vehicle-financing arm of Alissa Group. It offers lease-to-own
and installment contracts ranging from one to five years to individual as well as corporate clients.
Best Trading Company (Best Rent a Car): Acquired in
1998, the company offers a wide-ranging fleet of cars on daily, monthly,
and annual rentals and lease contracts to individuals and corporates. With over 11,000 vehicles, its fleet includes brands such as
Toyota, Ford, Mercedes, BMW, and Isuzu.
Investment and Business Development (IBDD):
Through this segment, the group conducts new business development; private
equity, venture capital, real estate, and financial investments; and monitoring of the group subsidiaries. Accordingly, the
diversified operations are mainly part of IBDD.
Alissa Information Technology:
This is the information technology division of the group, which supports the group companies
with information, insights, and connectivity.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In September 2016, AutoStar launched its ―First Five Installments Free‖ campaign in cooperation with Al Yusr Leasing and
Financing using the slogan ―Pick up your new car today and pay in 2017‖. The offer was provided on selected models of Nissan,
Kia, Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai.
Abdullatif Alissa Group Holding Company (Privately Owned) Saudi Arabia
Source: Company Website
Page | 58
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1985, Abu Dhabi Motors is the exclusive importer for BMW and MINI and the sole dealer for Rolls-Royce cars in Abu
Dhabi and Al Ain. The company employs over 700 people and owns four showrooms, three after sales centers, three car body
shops, one pre-delivery inspection centre, and four car storage warehouses that are capable of accommodating 3,000 cars.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
BMW:
Abu Dhabi Motors is engaged in the import and sale of all BMW models in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The company also offers
original BMW parts and accessories and pre-owned vehicles with a long-term warranty, wide portfolio of services, and financing
options.
MINI:
The company secured the franchise of MINI cars in 2001. It is an exclusive importer and distributor of MINI in Abu Dhabi
and Al Ain. The company also deals in MINI used cars and offers parts and accessories and services.
Rolls-Royce:
Abu Dhabi Motors is an exclusive dealer of Rolls-Royce in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The company offers all the
models of Rolls-Royce and provides related parts and services. With Rolls-Royce‘s wide collection of accessories, the company
provides support to customize the cars. The company also runs a Provenance program, under which it offers certified Rolls-
Royce used cars complemented with minimum of two years warranty and standard servicing.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In April 2016, Abu Dhabi Motors won the Service Performance awards in the BMW Customer Satisfaction Index, with 16 of the
top 20 service advisors selected from Abu Dhabi Motors based on highest after-sales standards.
In March 2016, Abu Dhabi Motors received four awards, including the Global Dealer of the Year; Regional Dealer of the Year for
Middle East, Africa, Central Asia & South America; Best Bespoke Dealer; and Best Global Volume Contribution at the annual
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars World Dealer Conference 2015.
In December 2015, Abu Dhabi Motors renewed its partnership with the Emirates Palace Hotel and delivered a fleet of four BMW 5
Series, 23 BMW 7 Series, and two BMW X5 models to be used for the transportation of its guests.
In October 2015, Abu Dhabi Motors entered into a new multi-million Dirham sponsorship deal with Al Ain Football Club, making
the Abu Dhabi Motors the official automotive partner for the 2015/16 season.
Abu Dhabi Motors LLC (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, Zawya,
Page | 59
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1988, Al Ghandi Auto Group (Al Ghandi) is primarily the dealer of General Motors brands namely GMC and Chevrolet in
Dubai and Northern Emirates. Through its dealership network, the company provides family cars, luxury cars, high-performance
sports cars, commercial vehicles, rental solutions, vehicle registration, marine equipment, and power generators, among others.
Additionally, the company deals in commercial vehicles and industrial equipments representing more than 20 manufacturers in over
16 locations across the Middle East and East Africa.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Al Ghandi Auto:
Through this company, the group is engaged in the distribution of a range of vehicles from subcompact cars to
medium-duty commercial trucks of GMC and Chevrolet brands in Dubai and Northern Emirates. The company also offers related
ancillary services.
National Auto:
Through this company, Al Ghandi owns dealership rights for Fiat, Proton, Ssangyong, and Lancia in Dubai and
Northern Emirates. The company is engaged in the sale of new and used vehicles and provision of after sales service and spare
parts. The company‘s showrooms are located in Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah.
Saeed Mohammed Al Ghandi & Sons (SMAG):
Founded in 1972, SMAG is a distributor for a number of world-renowned
franchises of commercial vehicles and industrial machinery and equipment in the Middle East and East Africa. SMAG distributes
commercial vehicles including trucks, excavators, and buses of brands such as Iveco, Kobelco, and Golden Dragon in Northern
Emirates, Dubai, and Djibouti.
Yaseer Car Rental & Leasing Company (Yaseer):
This company offers short and long-term car rental services, car leasing
facilities with suitable payment options, full service packages, and vehicle insurance. It has a diverse fleet comprising Chevrolet,
GMC, Fiat, SsangYong, Proton, and Iveco vehicles. The company has a showroom – Yaseer Rent a Car – in Dubai.
Tamam Vehicle Testing: Under this business,
Al Ghandi provides testing and registration of vehicles and certain machineries.
The technical testing facility is approved by the Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai.
G-Force Performance:
Founded in 2010, this division offers vehicle customization services such as painting, body styling, and
tuning, among others. The business unit also offers a range of accessories such as body kits, interiors, wheels, suspension,
brakes, cat-back exhaust, and supercharger.
Parts and accessories:
This division distributes parts and accessories not only for General Motors and IVECO vehicles but also
for many other brands in the UAE and Djibouti.
Al Ghandi Insurance Broker L.L.C (AGIB):
This division was launched in 2016 as an independent broker of personal,
corporate, and financial service insurances.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
N/A
Al Ghandi Auto Group (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website
Page | 60
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1983, Al Habtoor Motors LLC (AHM) is a subsidiary of the UAE-based conglomerate Al Habtoor Group that has
business interests in automotive, hospitality, education, real estate, and publishing sectors. AHM is the distributor of Mitsubishi,
Fuso, TEMSA, Chery, JAC, Wrightbus International, Bentley, Bugatti, and McLaren in the UAE. The company offers the entire
vehicle range of these brands including sedans, hatchbacks, 4x4's, convertibles, coaches, and buses. AHM has a strong network of
nine showrooms, nine service centres, four body shops, and ten parts centers covering the entire UAE. In 2015, the company
expanded into the Saudi Arabian market for the first time with Mitsubishi Fuso.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Mitsubishi:
As an exclusive distributor of Mitsubishi in the UAE, AHM offers the brand‘s entire range of passenger cars, 4x4s,
and Fuso commercial vehicles along with providing related parts and services. In addition, the company also distributes Fuso
commercial vehicles in Saudi Arabia.
TEMSA: AHM offers various models of buses and coaches of the TEMSA brand in the UAE.
Chery:
The company is the sole distributor for the Chinese brand, Chery, in the UAE. The company offers the brand‘s complete
range of models in addition to providing repair and maintenance, auto parts, warranty, and after-sales services.
JAC:
AHM offers range of JAC vehicles including sedans, hatchbacks, mini-buses, delivery vans, and trucks under its
distributorship agreement with the Chinese automaker. The company also offers related ancillary services.
Wrightbus International: AHM
has the exclusive dealership for Ireland-based Wrightbus International‘s vehicles in the UAE. The
brand has a wide range of buses including double deck buses, single-deck buses, and mini buses.
Bentley: Through an exclusive distributorship agreement, AHM
offers luxury carmaker Bentley‘s products and services. The
company also provides sale of used cars under the Bentley Pre-Owned Programme.
Bugatti: AHM has the sole distributorship for Bugati‘s Chiron and Veyron car series in the UAE.
McLaren:
AHM offers McLaren‘s cars including the sports series, super series, and ultimate series in the UAE under an exclusive
distributorship contract. It also deals in trade of pre-owned McLaren cars and provides after sales services and spare parts.
Tires and Batteries:
Through this division, the company is engaged in the sale of automotive tires, accessories, and batteries of
brands such as Sumo Firenza, Avon Tyres, General Tire, Mastercraft Tires, Fix&Go, and Energizer.
Global Auto Parts LLC:
This subsidiary of AHM supplies auto parts for vehicles of all major Japanese, Korean, European, and
American automobile brands.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In September 2016, AHM entered into a strategic partnership with Wrightbus International to become its official distributor in the
UAE.
In August 2016, AHM opened a new Bentley Motors showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. Spread across 75,000 square
feet area, the six-storey showroom features a personal commissioning area, a roof garden, a VIP suite and specialized water
feature with number plate recognition.
In July 2016, AHM opened two new state-of-the-art FUSO vehicle sales, services, and spare parts centers in Riyadh.
Al Habtoor Motors LLC (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, Constructionweekonline, MotorHeads.me, Forbes Middle East, Khaleej Times, The National
Page | 61
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Incorporated in 1976, Al Nabooda Automobiles LLC (ANM) operates as a subsidiary of Khalifa Juma Al Nabooda Group, a
conglomerate operating over 20 companies across different sectors. ANM is the authorized dealer for Audi, Porsche, and
Volkswagen in Dubai and Northern Emirates. The company offers branded vehicles, used cars, and related services through a
network of over 20 showrooms and service centers in Dubai, Fujairah, and Sharjah. The company offers car painting and accident
repairs services through its bodyshop centre while its three Protech centres offers performance and tuning service for Audi,
Porsche, and Volkswagen cars.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Volkswagen: ANM offers whole range of Volkswagen models
through its network of four dedicated showrooms, of which two are
located in Dubai and one each in Sharjah and Fujairah. Additionally, the company operates three service centers, one each in the
three Emirates, equipped with workshop, spare parts storage facility, automatic car wash, petrol station, and car accessories. The
company also offers Volkswagen certified used cars through its Das WeltAuto showroom located in Dubai.
Audi: The company is engaged in the sale of Audi models and provision of related services
through its three exclusive
showrooms and service centres across Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. The service centers are equipped with vehicle bays, wheel
alignment facilities, and over 10,000 lines of spare parts. The company also offers pre-owned Audis through the Audi Approved:
Plus showroom located in Dubai.
Porsche:
ANM offers the full range of Porsche models through its three dedicated showrooms and five service centres across
Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. The company also offers pre-owned Porsche vehicles through its Porsche Approved centre in
Dubai.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In April 2016, ANM inaugurated the world‘s largest standalone Audi service centre in Dubai. Spread across 11,000 square meters
(sq m) area, the three-level center includes an extensive workshop, contemporary lounge, 400 parking spaces, and a closed roof
mezzanine level.
In June 2015, the company‘s Porsche Centre in Dubai was honored by Dubai Municipality for its continued contribution to the
sustainability of the automotive sector. In recent years, ANM has undertaken several initiatives with Dubai Municipality to reduce
the carbon footprint in the UAE.
In May 2015, ANM was honored as the top performer in the Car Agency sector in the third ‗Consumer Friendliness Index 2014‘
released by the Department of Economic Development, Dubai.
Al Nabooda Automobiles LLC (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website
Page | 62
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1957, the Dubai-based Al Rostamani Group (Al Rostamani) is a conglomerate with business interests in automotive,
contracting, trading, recycling, and services sectors. The automotive business is conducted through its subsidiaries, Al Rostamani
Trading Company (ARTC) and United Diesel LLC (United Diesel). Al Rostamani distributes a wide range of vehicles of some of the
world‘s prominent automobile manufacturers such as Suzuki, Citroen, Renault Trucks, Tata Motors, UD Trucks, Unicarriers
Forklifts, and Dong Feng. In addition, the company offers spare parts, car accessories, and after sales services.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive: The automobile business includes sale of new vehicles and provision of after sales services.
o ARTC:
Founded in 2002, the subsidiary is a sole dealer of Suzuki and Citroen automobiles in the UAE. The product lines of
these brands include cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles. The company offers the products and services through its
network of six showrooms, six service centers, and five parts centers for Suzuki brand and one each showroom, service
center, and parts center for Citroen brand in the UAE.
o United Diesel:
Established in 1972, United Diesel holds dealership rights of Renault Trucks, Unicarriers Forklifts, UD Trucks,
Tata Motors, and Dong Feng. The product range includes trucks, buses, forklifts, tractors, and transport solutions to the
commercial, industrial, and educational sectors. The subsidiary also offers after sales support and genuine parts and
accessories.
Contracting: Through its four subsidiaries,
the company is engaged in property and project management services; contracting
works for residential complex, hotels, hospitals, and industrial facilities; designing and construction turnkey electrical power
projects; and trading in building material products.
Services:
This division offers a range of services including telecommunications and information technology equipment /
solutions, currency exchange and international remittance services, travel and holiday related services, and financial brokerage
services.
Trading:
This division is engaged in trading of automobile parts for brands such as Michelin, Castrol Lubricants, Kormoran,
Baroclem Batteries, Nippon Paints, and Aloca Aluminium Wheels. The company also provides air and water cooling solutions
under the brands Blue Star, Coway, and Bekon.
Recycling: This division undertakes recycling of tires and construction as well as demolition waste.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In January 2016, ARTC launched the new Suzuki Vitara in the UAE, marking an addition to the SUV series including Grand
Vitara, Jimny, and SX4.
Al Rostamani Group (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, TradeArabia
Page | 63
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1982, Al Tayer Motors LLC (ATM) is the subsidiary of Al Tayer Group, a conglomerate engaged in automotive, retail,
and real estate businesses. ATM is the distributor of major American and European automobile brands such as Ford, Lincoln,
Ferrari, Maserati, Jaguar, Land Rover in the UAE. The company is engaged in the sale of new and pre-owned vehicles and offers
after sales services. ATM also arranges personal finance and insurance services, in association with banks and insurance
companies, through its in-house facilities at selected showrooms. ATM operates seven showrooms and six service centres spread
across Dubai, Fujairah, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. In Abu Dhabi, the company operates through Premier Motors LLC that has
three showrooms and two service centers.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
New Cars:
It offers a wide range of car models of Ford, Lincoln, Jaguar, Land Rover, Maserati, and Ferrari across the UAE. Its
portfolio of vehicles also includes commercial vehicles of Ford.
Pre-Owned Cars
: The company facilitates the sale of used cars of Land Rover, Jaguar, Ford, Lincoln, Ferrari, and Maserati at
competitive prices across the UAE.
After Sales:
It offers complete after sales support, which includes car servicing, auto parts, warranty, bodyshop, and roadside
assistance through its network of service centers strategically located across the UAE.
Finance and Insurance: ATM arranges for complimentary personal finance and insurance service for its valued customers.
Car Rental:
ATM established Sanam Rent-a-Car LLC in 1994, through which it offers car rental services. Sanam Rent-a-Car LLC
represents National Car Rental and Alamo franchises in the UAE with a fleet of 4,500 vehicles for both rental and leasing.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In September 2016, ATM was awarded with Ford‘s ‗The Chairman‘s Award‘ for 2015. The honor was conferred after considering
parameters including sales and service customer satisfaction indices as well as vehicle and parts sales achievements.
In May 2016, ATM announced its plan to open new dedicated Lincoln concept showroom in Dubai that will provide sales, service,
and spare parts. Encompassing an area of over 120,000 square feet, the construction of the facility is likely to complete by 2018.
In December 2015, ATM opened the first Maserati showroom and service centre in Sharjah.
Al Tayer Motors LLC (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, Zawya
Page | 64
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Al-Babtain Group (Privately Owned) Kuwait
Company Description
Established in 1948, Al-Babtain Group (Al-Babtain) has business interests in multiple sectors, including automotive, information
technology, industrial, investment, and financial services. The company‘s operations span across the Gulf, Europe, the US, and the
Far East. Al-Babtain‘s automotive business comprises import and distribution of cars, heavy-duty vehicles, and construction
equipment alongside provision of car rental and leasing services.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive: Al-Babtain
holds distribution rights for automotive brands such as Infiniti, Nissan, Citroen, Renault, CMC, Tadano
Limited, and JMC. The company‘s portfolio of passenger cars include hatchbacks, sedans, multi-purpose vehicles (MVP) and
SUVs while the commercial vehicles offerings include truck cranes, truck loaders, terrain cranes, freezer vans, panel vans,
passenger vans, half lorry, and closed body trucks. Apart from vehicles, the company also offers auto spare parts such as tires,
batteries, spark plugs, lubricants, and polish of brands like Dunlop Tires, GS Battery, NGK Spark Plugs, Total, Maxxis, and Holts
Prestone. Al-Babtain‘s subsidiary, Gulf Express, is the sole distributor of premium oil products and Dunlop tires in Kuwait.
Information Technology:
Al-Babtain provides a comprehensive range of information technology solutions covering networking
and data communications solutions, audio / video solutions, security, storage and back-up solution, and enterprise / databases
integration through its subsidiary NCS ME. Some of the notable brands offered by the subsidiary include HP, Compaq, Microsoft,
Autodesk, and Siemens.
Investment: Al-Babtain invests in real estate projects focused on the leisure, residential, and commercial sectors.
Industrial:
Under this segment, Al-Babtain manufactures and supplies a wide range of coatings and plastics. The business is
conducted through subsidiaries, Kuwait Paint Company and Al Ahlia Plastics Company.
Finance:
The company provides auto-financing services through its subsidiary Al-Babtain Finance Company.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In November 2015, Al-Babtain launched the first exclusive Renault showroom in Kuwait. With the launch, the company aims to
expand its business of Renault vehicles, spare parts, and services in the Kuwaiti market.
Source: Company Website, Zawya
Page | 65
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1954, Alfardan Group (Alfardan) is a family-owned conglomerate with business interests in the fields of automotive,
jewelry, exchange, property development, investment, marine, and hospitality. The company forayed into the automotive business
in 1996 and presently represents luxury cars brands such as Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Land Rover, BMW, MINI, Jaguar, and Maserati.
Alfardan also deals in high-end motorcycles and a range of commercial vehicles. Additionally, the company offers vehicle leasing
and limousine rental services and distributes various auto parts.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Alfardan Automobiles:
The company is the authorized dealer for BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Qatar. It has one
each new car showroom for BMW and MINI and a showroom for BMW certified pre-owned car in Doha. The showrooms are
equipped with after sales facilities featuring the latest computerized service and diagnostic tools and technologies.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha:
Alfardan undertook distributorship of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha in 2003. The company
distributes full range of Rolls-Royce, provides after sales services, and deals in related parts and approved pre-owned vehicles.
Alfardan Sports Motors (ASM):
AMS is the exclusive importer of Ferrari and Maserati vehicles in Qatar, offering their full range
of sports and luxury cars. It also provides after sales service and sale of used cars under the Ferraro Approved and Maserati
Certified Pre-Owned program.
Alfardan Premier Motors (APM):
It is the exclusive importer of Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles in Qatar. In addition to selling
the branded models, the company also offers their after sales services, spare parts and accessories, and certified pre-owned
cars. APM conducts business through one showroom each of Land Rover and Jaguar, an after sales facility, a quick service
center, and an approved used car showroom.
Alfardan Motorcycles:
Under this segment, the company distributes motorcycles of brands such as Ducati, BMW Motorrad,
KTM, Triumph, Vespa, Aprilia, Gilera, Piaggio, Moto Guzzi, Sand-X, and Arctic Cat in Qatar. Alfardan also sells pre-owned
motorcycles of some of the brands and offers repairs and modifications services.
Prestige Cars: It offers
car leasing, rental, chauffeur, and limousine services to individuals and corporate clients in Qatar. Its
vehicle fleet includes BMW, MINI, Land Rover, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce, and Scania VIP buses. It has outlets at major five-star hotels
in Doha.
Arabian Agencies Company (ARACO): Through this segment, the company offers
construction equipment of Volvo; trucks,
gensets, coach, and buses of Scania; crushing and screening equipment of Powerscreen; trenching equipment of Trencor; and
construction machineries of SDLG.
Auto Future Tech: This division is engaged in the distribution of tires and
lubricating oils, greases, coolants, brake fluids, and
hydraulic oils of Continental and Castrol brands.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In September 2016, Alardan Automobiles opened a new BMW Premium Selection showroom in West Bay.
In March 2016, Alfardan Motorcycles opened a new showroom in Medina Centrale.
Alfardan Group (Privately Owned) Qatar
Source: Company Website, Gulf Times
Page | 66
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Headquartered in Dubai, Al-Futtaim Automotive Group (AFAG) belongs to Al-Futtaim Group that has operations in automotive,
financial services, real estate, and retail sectors. Its offerings cover every facet of the automotive value chain from commercial
vehicles, passenger cars, construction equipment sales and auto logistics to used car sales, auto leasing, and rentals. The business
is conducted through various arms of the group. AFAG represents over 25 global vehicle brands with a network of over 170
showrooms and after-sales facilities. Through its widespread distribution network, AFAG conducts operation in 14 countries across
the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
UAE:
AFAG is engaged in the sale of new and pre-owned vehicles and provision of car rental and leasing services and ancillary
services. The company
distributes Honda cars through Al-Futtaim Honda (20 showrooms and after sales centres); Volvo, Lotus,
Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles through Trading Enterprises; and Toyota, Lexus, and Hino vehicles through Al-Futtaim
Motors. Additionally, the used cars business is conducted by Al-Futtaim Automall (8 showrooms),
aftermarket business through
Al-Futtaim Auto Centers, commercial vehicles and services business through Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Company (FAMCO),
and car rentals and leasing services through Al-Futtaim Sons – Hertz. The company also is engaged in sale and lease of
vehicles, handling equipment, and generators used in remote areas or challenging environments through Select Auto.
Oman:
AFAG holds exclusive distribution rights for Honda in the Sultanate through its subsidiary – Oman Marketing and Services
Company. AFAG is also engaged in the sale of commercial vehicles and equipment through FAMCO and provision of car rental
services through Thrifty Car Rental.
Qatar:
In the country, AFAG distributes vehicles of Honda, Volvo, Proton, and China Motor Company through Doha Marketing
and Services Company and supplies commercial vehicles and equipment through FAMCO. The company also provides vehicle
rental and leasing services through Al-Futtaim Vehicle Rentals.
Saudi Arabia: In the Kingdom, AFAG is engaged in the distribution of
commercial vehicles and equipment through FAMCO,
provision of
automotive solutions to commercial and industrial customers through Orient Marketing and Trading Company, and
support services and aftermarket solutions through Al-Futtaim Auto Centres.
Bahrain:
AFAG offers heavy-duty construction vehicles of brands such as BP Handling Technologies, Volvo, SDLG, Merlo, and
HARTL in the country through FAMCO. Additionally, the company provides construction vehicles of Eicher through Pacific
Machinery.
In addition to the GCC, the company has automotive operations in Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique,
Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In September 2015, AFAG announced its plan to open a huge showroom at Dubai Investments Park. The facility spanning over
an area of 34,000 sq m, will be able to accommodate 1,400 vehicles in addition to tires, batteries, workshop equipment, and body
shop divisions. The showroom is expected to become operational by 2017.
Al-Futtaim Automotive Group (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, Zawya, The National
Page | 67
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1979, Ali & Sons Holdings LLC (Ali & Sons) is a conglomerate with business interests in the automotive, contracting,
healthcare, industrial, information technology, oil & gas, retail, real estate, media, and tourism sectors. In the automotive space, Ali
& Sons represent world‘s prominent brands such as Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi, and Skoda in the UAE. The company offers new
and pre-owned vehicles, auto parts, repair and maintenance services, roadside assistance, and auto tuning services. Through
Eurostar Rent A Car, Ali & Sons provides car rental services in the UAE with its fleet of Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen cars, and
commercial vehicles.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Volkswagen:
Ali & Sons started its Volkswagen operations in Abu Dhabi in 1987. The company is engaged in the sale of all
models of Volkswagen including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, convertibles, and sports cars. It owns three showrooms located in
the Corniche area, Musaffah, and Al Ain. The company is planning to open a new showroom in Abu Dhabi in 2017.
Audi:
Ali & Sons is the exclusive dealer of Audi in Abu Dhabi since 1987. It offers their entire range of cars including sedans,
hatchbacks, coupes, and convertibles. In Abu Dhabi, the company has one Audi showroom in Corniche Road and an ―Audi
Terminal‖ style showroom in Rawdhat. It also operates an Audi approved used car showroom in Mussafah and two service
centres, each in Al Ain and Mussafah.
Porsche:
The company is engaged in the import and distribution of Porsche cars in Abu Dhabi since 1987. It has two showrooms
and a service centre in Abu Dhabi and one showroom in Al Ain.
Skoda: In 2010,
Ali & Sons obtained the sole dealership rights for Skoda vehicles in the UAE. The company operates one Skoda
showroom each in Dubai and Al Ain; one after sales facility in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al-Ain; and one parts centre in Abu Dhabi.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles: Under this division, the company is involved
in marketing and sales of Volkswagen-branded
light commercial vehicles.
Pre-Owned Cars:
This division conducts inspection of used cars and offers warranty, financing, and insurance deals for
Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche pre-owned certified cars
ABT Sportsline:
Through this division, the company offers automobile tuning services including aerodynamic bodywork parts,
wheels and exhaust systems, sport suspensions, and power upgrades for Volkswagen vehicles.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In December 2015, Ali & Sons opened its new Audi Terminal showroom in Rawdat, Abu Dhabi. The new showroom is spread
over an area of 1,595 sq m with the capacity to display 21 cars.
In August 2015, Ali & Sons announced that it will complete the construction of the US$ 27 million exclusive Audi workshop by
2017. It will house an Audi-approved used car showroom and will be equipped with the latest diagnostic testing facilities.
Ali & Sons Holding LLC (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, Zawya
Page | 68
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Incorporated in 1986, the Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive W.L.L. (AAS) is an automotive arm of Ali Alghanim & Sons Group, a
conglomerate with business interests in automotive, contracting, education, trading, investment, networking IT, real estate and
manufacturing sectors. The company is a distributor of brands such as BMW, Rolls-Royce, MINI, Land Rover, McLaren, and JAC
Motors in Kuwait. AAS operates a large automotive complex in Shuwaikh that encompasses an area of 22,500 sq m with dedicated
showrooms for McLaren and Rolls-Royce. The facility is also equipped with workshop, body shop, quick service center, parts and
accessories, vehicle financing, and 24-hour roadside service.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Dealership Brands:
As an exclusive distributor and sole importer, AAS offers premium vehicle brands such as BMW, Rolls-
Royce, MINI, Land Rover, McLaren, and JAC Motors in Kuwait. The company also deals in automotive batteries and lubricants
such as motor oil, additives, chemical-based technical solutions, and car care products. AAS distributes Liqui Moly (a German
motor oil brand) and Exide (an American automotive battery brand) products exclusively in Kuwait.
Services:
AAS offers a full range of after sales services including repair service, quick service, body shop, parts and accessories,
satellite service stations, and 24-hour roadside assistance. Additionally, the company provides vehicle-leasing programs on all its
brands with comprehensive insurance, warranty, and service package through its subsidiary MAKFM.
Used Cars:
AAS is engaged in the sale of certified pre-owned vehicles of brands like BMW, Rolls-Royce, and Land Rover. The
used cars are sold through a dedicated showroom in Shuwaikh.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In March 2015, AAS was recognized with five awards, including Regional Dealer of the Year, Highest Year on Year Sales
Growth, Brand Ambassador, and two Certificates of Excellence for outstanding achievements in after-sales services at the annual
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Dealer Awards 2014 for the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and South America.
In January 2015, AAS displayed four models of the MINI at its ‗Yalla MINI‘ event held at the 360 Mall in Kuwait, which attracted
over 300 people to test drive the MINI models.
In August 2014, AAS announced the addition of Chinese automotive brand JAC Motors (Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Company)
to its portfolio of premium automobile brands.
In May 2014, AAS entered into a partnership with Liqui Moly and Exide brands to distribute their products exclusively in Kuwait.
Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive W.L.L. (Privately Owned) Kuwait
Source: Company Website, Zawya
Page | 69
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1965, AW Rostamani Group (AW Rostamani) is a conglomerate with business interests in automotive, retail, real estate
and construction, information technology, logistics, travel, and consultancy sectors. Headquartered in Dubai, AW Rostamani is the
sole distributor for automobile brands such as Nissan, Infiniti, Renault, Morris Garages, and Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile in the
UAE. In addition, the company offers certified pre-owned cars, spare parts, car accessories, car rental and leasing, and after sales
services. The automotive business is conducted through its subsidiaries,
Arabian Automobiles Company, Shift Car Rental, AW
Rostamani Trading Company and AW Rostamani Certified Pre-owned.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive:
The business includes sale of new and pre-owned vehicles, car rental and leasing service, and provision of after
sales services.
o Arabian Automobiles Company:
Founded in 1968, the subsidiary is a sole dealer for Nissan, Infiniti, and Renault brands in
Dubai and the Northern Emirates. It offers wide range of vehicles, including hatchbacks, sedan, SUVs, convertibles, and
commercial vehicles. It has a network of 11 new car showrooms, 11 service centers, and 13 spare parts outlets.
o Shift Car Rental:
Established in 2008, the subsidiary offers long-term leasing and spot car rental solutions to individuals and
corporates. Its fleet consists of the different car models of Nissan, Infiniti, and Renault. Under the leasing solutions, the
subsidiary offers buyback option on expiry of the lease term in addition to guaranteed customer service.
o AW Rostamani Trading Company:
The subsidiary is an exclusive distributor for vehicles brands such as Morris Garages
(sports cars) and Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile (SUVs, MPVs, pick-ups, light trucks) in the UAE. It also distributes tires,
batteries, lubricants, heat control films, and other allied products of brands such as CEAT Tyres, Fulda Tyres, SAVA Tyres,
Amaron batteries, ELF Lubricants, Fortron Automotive Treatments, and XCool heat control films in the UAE.
o AW Rostamani Certified Pre-owned:
Established in 1998, the company deals in certified pre-owned vehicles of brands,
including Nissan, Infiniti, Renault, Toyota, Lexus, Ford, Mitsubishi, BMW, Mercedes, Morris Garages, Audi, and Chevrolet,
among others. It has five pre-owned cars showrooms located in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
Lifestyle:
Founded in 2012, this division offers exclusive brands in fashion, jewelry, and home ware products. The brands under
its umbrella include Georg Jensen, Vhernier, and Graffiti.
Real Estate:
The group offers luxury housing, affordable residential units, and commercial office spaces in the UAE. It also
provides property development and management, leasing and asset management services.
Information Technology: Provides IT services and business consulting solutions through its subsidiary Shift Technologies.
Consulting & Training: Provides consulting and training services to governmental and private enterprises.
Logistics:
Engaged in logistics services including distribution, warehousing, customs clearance, freight forwarding, shipping and
container freight station, and trading through its subsidiary AW Rostamani Logistics.
Interior Fit Out: Offers interior fit-out and MEP services through its subsidiary, AW Rostamani Building Industries.
Lighting: Through AW Rostamani Lumina, the group offers luminaires and lighting control equipment.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In November 2016, Arabian Automobiles Company opened a new Infiniti certified used car showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road in
Dubai.
In January 2016, Arabian Automobiles Company opened its first Renault store in the UAE located on Al Ittihad Road, Dubai.
AW Rostamani Group (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, TradeArabia
Page | 70
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1952 as a general trading company, Behbehani Brothers W.L.L. (Behbehani) ventured into the automotive retail
business in 1957 by becoming the distributor for Volkswagen cars. Today, the company represents the world‘s renowned
automobile brands of Volkswagen, Porsche, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo. In addition, the company offers
repair and maintenance service, spare parts and accessories, bodyshop, car leasing, and vehicle financing assistance. Apart from
automotive business, Behbehani has interests in retailing watches, engineering and trading, and energy and building solutions.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive: The company
distributes a range of vehicles from hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, convertibles, and sports cars to
trucks of international automobile brands such as Volkswagen, Porsche, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Fiat, Alfa Romeo.
Additionally, Behbehani provides after sales services including body shop, parts and accessories, auto financing, and vehicle
leasing. The company is also engaged in the sale of certified pre-owned vehicles. Through brands like Mopar and SRT, the
company provides exclusive car servicing, parts and accessories, and tuning services for selected brands such as Chrysler,
Dodge, Jeep, and RAM.
Watches:
Behbehani offers a wide collection of watches of premium brands such as Omega, Patek Philippe, Vacheron
Constantin, Tissot, Roamer, Baume & Mercier, Piaget, and Jaeger-LeCoultre through its network of 14 flagship stores in Bahrain.
The company also sells Italian jewelry, gift items, leather goods, and fashion ware.
Engineering and Trading:
Under this division, the company deals in survey software and hardware, ground penetrating radar
equipment, laser scanners, mobile sensor platforms, and machine control systems.
Energy & Building Solutions:
Behbehani is engaged in the distribution of gas detection, strainers, and boilers of Acme
Engineering Products Ltd.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In June 2016, Behbehani announced the commencement of construction of a new multi-storey car storage facility and logistics
unit in Bahrain. The construction is expected to complete by first quarter of 2017. The facility is likely to accommodate up to 1,000
cars, a public cafeteria, nine quick service workbays, eight pre-delivery inspection bays, and a hi-tech workshop.
In November 2015, Audi Centre Bahrain (ACB), represented by Behbehani, signed a strategic leasing agreement with Bahrain‘s
premier golf club, Royal Golf Club (RGC). Under the agreement, ACB offers RGC members and employees a broad range of
attractive vehicle financing and leasing options on the Audi car models, including maintenance and servicing over the leasing
period.
Behbehani Brothers W.L.L. (Privately Owned) Bahrain
Zubair Corporation (Privately Owned) Oman
Source: Company Website, Zawya
Page | 71
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1946, E.A. Juffali & Brothers (Juffali) is a diversified player engaged in businesses of automotive, technology, AC &
refrigerator, construction, chemicals, contracting services to oil and gas industry, insurance, and training services. In the 1950s,
Juffali ventured into the automotive sector through its association with Mercedes-Benz brand owned by the German-based Daimler
AG. Over the years, Juffali expanded its interest in the automotive sector in almost every area including retail, vehicle assembly,
bodywork, tires, and spare parts. In 1977, Juffali in association with Daimler AG established a training center to train young Saudi
nationals on automotive engineering and maintenance.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Juffali conducts the automotive business through below subsidiaries,
Juffali Automotive Company (JACO):
JACO is the exclusive distributor for Mercedes-Benz cars in Saudi Arabia. The company
sells cars through its showrooms in Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Asir. The subsidiary also provides after sales services and
spare parts through its centers located across the country. JACO also offers online services for its customers.
National Automobile Industry Company Ltd. (NAI):
Founded in 1974, NAI is a JV between Juffali and Mercedes-Benz
commercial vehicles formed to assemble Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles in Saudi Arabia.
Juffali Industrial Products Company (JIPCO):
JIPCO is engaged in the sale, marketing, and provision of after sales services
for the Mercedes-Benz range of commercial vehicles in the Kingdom. The subsidiary is also the sole distributor of Daimler AG
commercial vehicles in Saudi Arabia.
Juffali Tyres Company (JTCO):
Formed in 2001 after the merger of Michelin Saudi Arabia with Juffali, JTC offers a broad range
of Michelin products through its outlets in Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, Qassim, Abha, and Medinah. The subsidiary also offers
after sales support across the country and runs TyrePlus Service Centres that provides a range on top-end tires and mechanical
services.
Arabian Metal Industries Ltd. (AMI):
Established in 1976, AMI is engaged in the production and assembly of truck bodies,
tippers, tanks, trailers, cargo boxes, refrigerated boxes, semi-trailer tankers, and garbage trucks at its factory in Jeddah.
Juffali Auto Parts Company (JAPCO):
JAPCO provides auto spare parts, warehousing facility, and unique workshop services
such as automotive diagnostic systems (through its partnership with Bosch). The subsidiary also offers after sales services
across the country through its network of sales outlets and a large field sales force.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In September 2016, Daimler AG achieved a major milestone of selling 100,000 Mercedes-Benz Actros truck in MENA over the
past 20 years. The result was attributed to the long lasting and successful business relationship between Daimler AG and JIPCO.
E.A. Juffali & Brothers (Privately Owned) Saudi Arabia
Source: Company Website, TradeArabia
Page | 72
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1950, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo Company B.S.C. (EKKC) is a diversified enterprise with presence in businesses of
automotive sales and services, information technology, consulting, power solutions, security services, and painting services. The
company is the sole distributor for Toyota and Lexus vehicles in Bahrain. EKKC also offers car servicing, vehicle rental and leasing
services, and undertakes sale of pre-owned vehicles. Moreover, the company deals in a range of tires and other automotive
equipment and tools. EKKC owns a showroom each of Toyota and Lexus and a Toyota Plaza after sales service center in Bahrain.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive Sale:
EKKC offers the whole range of passenger, commercial vehicles, and industrial equipment of Toyota brand
and luxury car models of Lexus brand in Bahrain. Additionally, the after sales services of these brands are provided at the Toyota
Plaza service center.
Automotive Services:
The company offers passenger and commercial vehicles of different brands on lease through the Kanoo
Vehicle Leasing division. EKKC also engages in sale of used cars through Kanoo Pre-Owned Vehicles division and car rental
services via Kanoo Daily Rental. Other services include vehicle insurance, registration, servicing, and maintenance. Besides, the
company operates Kanoo Body Service Centers that provides accident repairs, chassis alignment, full body polish, and painting
and fitting services, among others.
Kanoo Automotive Care (KAC):
KAC distributes cranes, vehicle body repair and paint equipment, and air compressors, among
others of more than 35 global renowned automotive equipment brands. Through the tire division, it distributes tires of Michelin
and BF Goodrich brands. KAC holds franchisee of brands such as Llumar (window film and tint provider), Ziebart (automotive
detailing and protection provider), and TyrePlus (one-stop-shop offering tires and car maintenance services).
Diversified Businesses: In addition to the automobile business, the company is engaged in below businesses.
o Kanoo Information Technology:
Offers infrastructure, storage, data center, networking, information security services, and
other services in partnership with IBM, HP, Cisco, and Microsoft, among others.
o Kanoo Power Solutions:
Offers a range of standard power solutions in partnership with brands such as Emerson, Aksa,
Exide, Power-one, and Hawker.
o Security 1:
Offers specialized turnkey solutions such as access control, fire alarm and suppression, video surveillance, and
intrusion detection in association with Mobotix, Milestone, Bosch, and Golmar, among others.
o KCS Consulting Services: Offers enterprise resource planning services throughout the entire ERP project lifecycle.
o Kanoo Paint Centre: Offers full technical support in the field of automotive paint and comprehensive project consultancy.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In October 2016, EKKC inaugurated a TyrePlus point of service in Nuwaidrat. The branch will offer several brands of tires,
lubricants, batteries, and suspensions in the southern governorate of Bahrain. EKKC plans to have 10 TyrePlus branches
throughout Bahrain by end of 2020.
In August 2016, EKKC opened a new Ziebart Express branch in Seef Mall Muharraq. The new facility offers services such as
window tinting, paint protection, waxing and polishing, and interior and exterior cleaning.
Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo Company B.S.C. (Privately Owned) Bahrain
Source: Company Website
Page | 73
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1998, Euro Motors Company SPC (Euro Motors) is a subsidiary of Al Zayani Investments Group which is
conglomerate engaged in automotive, healthcare, manufacturing, and real estate businesses. Euro Motors is the distributor for
BMW, MINI, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Ferrari, and Maserati in Bahrain. The company owns a showroom and after sales
center in Sitra. In addition to vehicle sales, it offers ancillary services such as car servicing, body shop, and parts and accessories.
The body shop utilizes the latest technology in car body repair and body repair jig imported from Europe. It also features the water
borne paint technology system, which is the first of its kind to be used by BMW and Land Rover in the entire Middle East region.
Euro Motors also has a loyalty programme named, Intaleq, exclusively designed for it valued customers.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
BMW:
Euro Motors is engaged in the distribution of BMW vehicles in Bahrain since 1998. The company also offers original BMW
parts and accessories and pre-owned vehicles bundled with a long-term warranty, after sales service, and financing options.
MINI:
Euro Motors is the exclusive importer for MINI in Bahrain. Its offers the entire range of MINI brand vehicles and sells their
certified pre-owned cars. The company also offers original MINI accessories, merchandise, and comprehensive after sales
service.
Rolls-Royce:
Euro Motors is the exclusive importer of Rolls-Royce in Bahrain. It distributes the brand‘s entire range of luxury
cars and offers approved pre-owned vehicles, accessories, comprehensive car servicing, and roadside assistance.
Jaguar:
The company has the rights to distribute Jaguar cars in Bahrain alongside their approved pre-owned cars that comes
with range of benefits such as minimum two year warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Land Rover:
Euro Motors offers several models of Land Rover. The company also sells pre-owned Land Rover cars and offers
related ancillary services.
Ferrari:
The company has the rights to distribute Ferrari branded cars in Bahrain. Additionally, the company deals in their pre-
owned cars and offers full-fledged after sales services.
Maserati:
Euro Motors owns the rights to distribute a range of Maserati cars in Bahrain. It also sells the brand‘s certified pre-
owned cars and offers range of services such as car servicing, warranty, financing, and roadside assistance.
BMW Motorrad: Euro Motors deals in a range of motorcycles and maxi-scooters models of
BMW Motorrad and offers related
accessories and navigation and communication equipment.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In August 2016, Euro Motors announced its plans to build a fleet of over 100 research vehicles over the next four years, to
develop and test a wide range of Connected and Autonomous Vehicle technologies. Initially, the company plans to test vehicle-
to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications technologies that will allow cars to communicate with each other and
roadside signs, overhead gantries, and traffic lights.
In August 2016, Euro Motors received three awards – ‗Best Land Rover Discovery Sport Launch‘, ‗Best Jaguar XF Launch‘, and
the ‗Best Social Media Award‘ at the 2015/2016 edition of Jaguar Land Rover MENA Marketing Awards.
Euro Motors Company SPC (Privately Owned) Bahrain
Source: Company Website
Page | 74
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1898, Jaidah Group (Jaidah) is a diversified conglomerate with interests in automotive, heavy equipment, technology,
energy, industrial supply, and furniture businesses in Qatar. The company conducts its automotive business through Jaidah
Automotive, its passenger vehicle division. Jaidah Automotive is the sole distributor of Chevrolet vehicles and sells the cars through
its four showrooms in Qatar. The company also offers two quick service centers of ACDelco, an American automotive parts brand
owned by General Motors, in addition to five General Motors certified quick service centers spread across Qatar.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive: Jaidah Automotive
offers a range of vehicles including hatchbacks, sedans, crossovers, SUVs, vans, trucks, and
coupes of Chevrolet. It also offers Chevrolet certified used vehicles, vehicle rental services, long-term lease solutions,
comprehensive after sales services at the company‘s quick service centers, 24/7 roadside assistance, genuine vehicle parts, and
warranty. Additionally, the company offers one-stop-shop maintenance services, repair services, electrical services, and body
services through three ‗AutoLab‘ service centers.
Equipment:
Through Jaidah Heavy Equipment, the company is engaged in sale of a wide range of equipment used in industries
such as energy, civil works, construction, and transportation. Its partners include Komatsu, Link Belt Cranes, Cummins, Palfinger,
among others. The company also offers a full-fledged post sales solution in the form of field service, maintenance contracts, and
spare parts. Through partnership with Cummins Inc., the US-based engine manufacturer, the company offers engines, power
generation equipment, fuel systems, components, and filtration and emission solutions.
Electrical:
Through this division, Jaidah offers electrical equipment and accessories of internationally recognized brands such as
Fujitsu, ABB, and Fronius. Additionally, the company provides installation and after sales service for the electrical systems.
Furniture: Under this business segment,
the company is engaged in the sale of premium furniture, fixtures, and fittings sourced
from local as well as global suppliers. The company also provides ergonomic solutions for healthcare, education, and hospitality
industries.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In May 2016, Jaidah inaugurated the new AutoLab service centre in Salwa Road, Qatar. The new full-fledged service centre
offers whole range of repair and maintenance services for all car brands in Qatar. The company also announced its plan to open
the third AutoLab service centre near Landmark mall in Qatar.
In January 2016, Jaidah Automotive opened the Middle East‘s largest standalone Chevrolet showroom in Jaidah Square, Airport
Road. The new showroom is spread over an area of 3,300 sq m and displays over 33 Chevrolet vehicles.
Jaidah Group (Privately Owned) Qatar
Source: Company Website
Page | 75
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1976, Liberty Automobiles Co. L.L.C. (Liberty) is a subsidiary of Liberty Investment Company, a holding company
owning automobile, travel and tourism, logistics, transportation, and real estate businesses. Liberty is an authorized dealer for
General Motors‘ brands like Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Opel. The company offers an array of services including distribution of new
and used vehicles, car servicing, spare parts, and 24/7 roadside assistance. In addition, it also offers unique car customization
service and automotive tuning products through its Liberty Motor Sports outlets. In addition, Liberty offers AC Delco‘s parts and
services, Kawasaki‘s motorcycles and watercraft, Otokar‘s buses and coaches, Bonluck‘s buses and coaches, DesignLine‘s zero
emission and hybrid coaches, and Foton‘s trucks. Liberty has seven car showrooms, eight service centers, and eight parts centers
across the UAE.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
New Cars:
It offers a range of vehicles from hatchbacks, sedans, crossovers, SUVs, MPVs, coupes to buses, vans, and trucks.
The seven new car showrooms are located in Abu Dhabi (Cadillac), Dubai (Cadillac, Opel), Sharjah (Cadillac, Opel, Chevrolet),
Fujairah (Cadillac, Chevrolet), Ras Al Khaimah (Cadillac), Umm Al Quwain (Cadillac, Chevrolet), and Al Ain (Cadillac).
Service:
Liberty offers a wide range of services including scheduled servicing, major mechanical jobs, and body shop repairs.
The service centers are located at Mussafah, Umm Al Nar, Al Rashidiya, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain,
and Al Ain.
Parts:
The company distributes General Motors‘ genuine parts and accessories, parts and lubricants from AC Delco, and high-
performance disc brakes from DBA, Australia.
Used Cars: Through its
used car sales division, the company conducts sale of certified used cars as well as provides support for
bank financing, insurance, and registration.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In October 2016, Al Wahda Football Club entered into a sponsorship agreement with Liberty for the Arabian Gulf League.
The
partnership is expected to see the logo of Cadillac brand featuring on the jerseys of the players.
Liberty Automobiles Co. L.L.C. (Privately Owned) UAE
Source: Company Website, Gulf News
Page | 76
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1957, Qatar-based Nasser Bin Khaled Al Thani & Sons Holding Co. (NBK) is a diversified corporation having interests
in varied industries including automotive, construction, real estate, luxury and fashion, healthcare, energy and industry, and travel
and tourism. In the automotive space, NBK represents automobile brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Spyker, Mitsubishi, Harley
Davidson, MV Agusta, and Kawasaki. The company also distributes a wide range of cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles in
Qatar. Apart from vehicle sales, it also offers an array of premium automotive services, parts and accessories, and car rental and
leasing services.
NBK‘s automotive business subsidiaries include Qatar Automobiles Company (QAC), Bin Khaled Automobiles, Nasser Bin Khaled
& Sons, NBK Powered Sports, and United Car Rentals. Other group subsidiaries are National Industrial Contracting Company
(construction), Nasser Bin Khaled Real Estate (real estate), NBK Fashion (luxury and fashion), NBK Projects Promotion
(healthcare), Doha Petrol Station (energy and industry), and NBK Travel & Tourism (travel and tourism).
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive:
NBK conducts its automotive business through subsidiaries and affiliates. Its subsidiary, QAC distributes new and
pre-owned vehicles of Mitsubishi Motors as well as Mitsubishi Fuso and offers related vehicle servicing, body shop, and spare
parts. QAC operates two showrooms, two quick service centres, one workshop and body shop center, and four spare parts stores
in Doha. The distribution rights for Mercedes-Benz, May Bach, and AMG brands is owned by the subsidiary, Nasser Bin Khaled
Automobiles and the rights for motorcycle brands such as Harley-Davidson, MV Agusta, and Husqvarna is owned by NBK
Powered Sports. The company‘s business of car accessories, cars and trucks protection solutions, tires, window tinting, and
other such services are conducted through Nasser Bin Khaled & Sons. This subsidiary deals in brands such as Michelen, Bosch,
and Ziebrat, among others. Besides, NBK operates a heavy equipment division that offers excavators, wheel loaders, compact
track loaders, telescopic truck cranes, and rough-terrain forklifts of various brands. The company also provides automotive
animation, design, and tuning services. Through its JV, United Car Rentals, the company offers car rental services with a fleet of
various passenger and commercial vehicles.
Construction:
NBK‘s subsidiary National Industrial Contracting Company undertakes diversified mega construction projects such
as residential buildings, mixed-use compounds, pump stations, deluxe villas, workshops, factories, seaports, and beach resorts.
Real Estate:
The company is engaged in the purchase, sale, and maintenance of real estate and provision of property
management services in Qatar through its arm, Nasser Bin Khaled Real Estate.
Luxury and Fashion:
Under this business, NBK retails luxury and fashion products such as apparel, jewelry, and accessories,
among others of brands such as Amen, Barbara Bui, Abed Mahfouz, Quiksilver, Camilia.
Healthcare:
Under this business, the company is engaged in sale of hospital furniture, gym and health equipment, first aid and
emergency equipment, medical gases and tubes, and medical treatment facilities, among others in Qatar.
Energy and Industry: This business segment operates
Doha Petrol Station that distributes petrol, diesel, kerosene products,
tires, batteries, oil, spare parts and accessories.
Travel & Tourism:
Under this segment, NBK provides services related to air transport and hotel booking and customizing travel
packages for corporate, among others.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In February 2016, NBK won the ‗The Best Stand‘ award from Auto Sport magazine at the Qatar Motor Show 2016.
Nasser Bin Khaled Al Thani & Sons Holding Co. (Privately Owned) Qatar
Source: Company Website, Gulf Times
Page | 77
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1991, Oman Trading Establishment LLC (OTE, also known as OTE Group) is engaged in the distribution of vehicles,
auto parts, lubricants, tires, batteries, consumer electronics, and home appliances. The company is a distributor of renowned
vehicle brands such as Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chery, Hyundai, Isuzu, Subaru, and SsangYong in Oman. In the automotive business,
OTE also offers used car sales, after sales support, and vehicle leasing and rental services. Besides, the company manufactures
polymer colorants and imparts education through its vocational training institutes.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive:
OTE distributes a range of vehicles comprising hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, coupes, MPVs and commercial vehicles
of Cadillac, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Chery, Subaru, Isuzu, and SsangYong. The company conducts this business through a network
of over 20 showrooms in Oman. OTE also offers after sales services, certified pre-owned vehicles, and car rental and leasing
services.
Automotive Care:
Through its network of authorized service centers and seven ACDelco quick service centres, OTE offers an
array of vehicle services under one roof. The company is also engaged in sale of genuine auto parts, including tires of brands
such as Pirelli, Hankook, MRF, Kenda, Falken, and Tire Care, and batteries and lubricants of Exide, Shell, ACDelco, and
BESFITS.
Overseas Venture: In 2010,
OTE established Al Adiyat Automobiles as an exclusive distributor for Japanese vehicle brand
Subaru in Abu Dhabi.
Consumer Durables:
OTE offers home appliances, home entertainment, home comfort, and information technology products of
brands like LG, Bosch, and White-Westinghouse, Pearl, and Prolux through its network of showrooms across Oman.
Vocational Training:
The company runs the Technical and Administrative Training Institute, which has several training centers
across Oman providing professional training and courses in business, administration, technical, management development, and
language development, among others.
Manufacturing:
This division engages in the manufacture of polymer color concentrates. The products are sold to plastic
processors in Oman as well as exported to other countries in the Gulf region.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In March 2016, OTE launched the new 2016 Subaru XV at the Subaru flagship showroom in Muscat.
In March 2015, the company successfully delivered the fully customized state-of-the-art Chevrolet ambulance to KIMS Hospital.
In July 2014, OTE appointed Mr. Anil Dua – the former Senior Vice President (sales, marketing, and customer care) of Hero
Motocorp – as its Managing Director.
Oman Trading Establishment LLC (Privately Owned) Oman
Source: Company Website, Business Standard, Muscat Daily
Page | 78
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 1951, Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Company (Saleh) is a conglomerate with its portfolio of business covering
automobiles, luxury and fashion retail, food and beverage, real estate and investments, information technology, engineering, media,
and entertainment. The company conducts its business operations through 55 companies located in eight countries. The
automobile business comprises distribution of vehicles of Nissan, Infiniti, and Renault and provision of after sales services and
genuine parts in Qatar. Saleh also offers car rental and leasing services across Qatar in collaboration with National Car Rental.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
The company‘s automotive business comprises the below brands and services.
Nissan: Saleh is the exclusive distributor for Nissan in Qatar since
over five decades. In addition to sale of Nissan vehicles, the
company acts as a one-stop shop for all vehicle ancillary services. Saleh operates three Nissan showrooms, two service centers,
and three Express service centers in the country. For corporate clients, the company offers services such as corporate leasing,
after sales packages, and internal financing through the corporate and fleet sales department.
Infiniti:
Saleh is the sole distributor of entire range of Infiniti car models in Qatar. In addition, the company offers maintenance
service, repair service, and body paint service. Saleh has two Infiniti showrooms and five service centers in the country. The
company provides also provides car rental and comprehensive after sales services.
Renault: Saleh
is an exclusive distributor for Renault in Qatar since 2003. In addition to vehicle sales, the company offers an
array of automotive ancillary services. Saleh operates one Renault showroom in Salwa road and a service centre in Salwa
industrial area.
National Car Rental:
Saleh acts as an agent for National Car Rental – a car rental company in Qatar. The services offered under
this business include daily, weekly and monthly rentals, long-term vehicle leasing, corporate rentals, and regional and
international car rental reservations. The company‘s rental fleet includes economic cars, compact cars, SUVs, luxury cars, and
light commercial vehicles.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In July 2015, Saleh‘s parts and accessories department secured the first place in the Nissan Genuine Motor Oil Sales
Competition and received the ‗Outstanding Performance‘ award for genuine parts sales in the Middle East region during the 2015
Annual Aftersales Conference held in Abu Dhabi.
Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Company (Privately Owned) Qatar
Source: Company Website, Gulf Times
Page | 79
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Headquartered in Oman, Saud Bahwan Group (SBG) is a diversified player with presence in the fields of automobile, construction
equipment, turnkey projects, industrial equipment, municipal and civic services, property and real estate, and travel and tourism. In
the automotive business, SBG acts as a distributor of notable brands of Toyota, Lexus, Ford, Kia, Daihatsu, MAN, and Hino in
Oman. The company is also engaged in the sale of pre-owned cars, tires, batteries, spare parts and accessories, and provision of
after sales services in the Sultanate.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Automotive:
SBG distributes vehicles of Toyota through its seven dedicated showrooms, Lexus via eight showrooms, Ford
through 11 showrooms, and Kia with 18 showrooms. The company deals in tires, batteries, and allied products of Yokahama,
Continental, 3M, Elf, Bowtherm, Carter, Washtec, and Josam, among others. The business of pre-owned vehicles is conducted
under the brand ‗Best Cars‘ with a network of 14 showrooms. The company has a nationwide network of Daihatsu service and
parts outlets.
Heavy Vehicles:
SBG offers a range of trucks and buses of MAN through its five showrooms and of Hino through four
showrooms. The company also provides related after sales support and spare parts.
Construction Equipment:
This segment is engaged in the supply of construction related vehicles and equipment such as
excavators, rigid dump trucks, bulldozers, tractors, cranes, and drum rollers. The products sold are of brands such as Komatsu,
Kato, Kobelco, Bomag, Vogele, Sandvik, and Holland.
Turnkey Projects:
Under this segment, the company undertakes large-scale turnkey projects in different industries such as
infrastructure, engineering, construction, and power. Some of the notable projects executed by the company include desalination
projects at Masirah, Al Nagda and Sheesha, design & consultancy for Airport MRO/Cargo, and a LPG bottling plant.
Special Equipment: It provides a range of special equipment for municipal, civil defense, fire protection, seaport, and airport.
Industrial Equipment:
This segment offers a wide range of industrial equipment such as forklifts, cranes, material handling and
access equipment, transport refrigeration, and bus air conditioning solutions.
Property and Real Estate:
Through this segment, the company is engaged in property management and investment in
residential projects.
Travel and Tourism:
Through National Travel & Tourism, the company provides services related to tours, ticketing, and cargo.
Within the division, the company is engaged in car rental services through Hertz.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In March 2015, SBG received the ‗GOLD Marketing Award‘ for sales performance, ‗Outstanding Customer Service Award‘ for
customer satisfaction activities, and ‗Overall DIAMOND Marketing Award‘ for excellent performance in vehicle sales and
customer service from Toyota Motor Corporation for the year 2014.
Saud Bahwan Group (Privately Owned) Oman
Source: Company Website
Page | 80
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Established in 2004, Suhail Bahwan Automobiles LLC (SBA) is a part of Suhail Bahwan Group, a conglomerate engaged in diverse
businesses such as automobiles, engineering and construction, steel and building materials, fertilizers and chemicals, and logistics,
among others. SBA is the authorized dealer of Nissan, Infiniti, and Renault brand vehicles in Oman. Apart from sale of new and
used vehicles, SBA also offers full-fledged after sales service, auto-financing solutions, genuine parts and accessories, and vehicle
leasing and rental services. The company owns a network of 17 showrooms, 21 service centers, and 35 genuine spare parts outlets
across Oman.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Vehicles:
SBA distributes a wide range of vehicles including hatchbacks, sedans, crossovers, SUVs, convertibles, and LCVs of
automobile brands such as Nissan, Infiniti, and Renault in Oman.
Used Cars: Through its pre-owned car division – Popular Cars, SBA deals in certified used vehicles of different brands.
Genuine Accessories: SBA sells a range of genuine parts and accessories of Nissan, Infinity, and Renault brands.
Service Centers:
The company has a nationwide network of mechanical repair workshops and body shops offering
comprehensive repair and maintenance solutions.
AUTOFINANCE:
This division of the company extends financing solutions including customized finance packages, variable
installment schemes, attractive interest rates, and loan transfer facility to individuals and corporates for purchase of new and
used vehicles.
Vehicle Leasing: SBA also provides vehicle leasing and rental solutions in Oman.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In July 2016, Nissan announced that the world‘s first ‗Nismo Corner‘ dedicated showroom space for its Nismo performance
vehicle brand will be launched in the Middle East. In Oman, the Nismo Corner will be showcased at SBA‘s Qurm showroom in
Muscat.
In September 2015, SBA received the delivery of a new automotive finishing facility in Sohar Freezone.
Suhail Bahwan Automobiles LLC (Privately Owned) Oman
Source: Company Website, Muscat Daily, Breakbulk Events & Media
Page | 81
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Company Description
Founded in 1973, Zubair Automotive Group (Zubair) is the flagship enterprise of the Zubair Corporation, an industrial conglomerate
with operations in automotive, energy and logistics, engineering, construction and contracting, real estate, hospitality, financial
services, and manufacturing sectors. Zubair is a multi-brand automotive distributor in Oman. The company distributes a range of
passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles of automotive brands such as Mitsubishi, Fuso, Bentley,
Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Volvo, Renault, Bobcat, Hi-Force, Kennedy, Graco, and Ingersoll Rand,
among others. Zubair also facilitates sale of pre-owned cars and offers vehicle fabrication and paint services, leasing and rental
services, repair and maintenance services, and spare parts. Zubair operates a network of 18 showrooms, 22 service centers, and
28 parts outlets across Oman.
Business Segments/Product Portfolio
Dhofar Automotive:
Through this subsidiary, the company is engaged in the distribution of vehicles of brands such as Chrysler,
Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Fiat Professional, Alfa Romeo, and RAM, among others. The subsidiary has a network of seven showrooms
and two service centers in Oman. It also offers after sales services and certified pre-owned vehicles.
General Automotive Company (GAC):
GAC is the exclusive distributor for Mitsubishi Motor‘s range of sedans, SUVs, pick-ups
and light commercials along with the FUSO commercial vehicles. The company also provides related after sales service.
International Heavy Equipment (IHE):
IHE offers heavy haulage and transport solutions to the construction sector. The range of
products includes buses, coaches, trucks, excavators, tractors, rigid dump trucks, bulldozers, drum rollers, and cranes of brands
like Volvo, Renault, Bobcat, Kobelco, and Ferrari Cranes, among others. Additionally, IHE operates dedicated after sales services
and parts outlets.
Rumaila Motors:
It is the sole distributor for Great Wall Motors and sells passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs of the Great Wall
brand and premium SUVs of the Haval brand in Oman. This subsidiary has seven showrooms across Oman.
Wattayah Motors:
This subsidiary distributes vehicles of premium automotive brands such as Bentley, Audi, Skoda, and
Volkswagen and offers parts, accessories and approved used cars through its strong network of showrooms and service facilities.
Other Divisions: Through
Zubair Mega Body Shop, the company offers a range of accident repair, fabrication, and vehicle
modification solutions. Zubair also provides lighting, window tint, car entertainment systems, lubricants, batteries and filters of
Magneti Morelli, Kenwood, Energiser Batteries, and Cooper & Mickey Thompson Tyres through Sayarti LLC. The vehicle leasing
and rental services are conducted by Zubair Leasing.
Recent Developments/Future Plans
In February 2016, GAC opened a new Express Service Centre in Azaiba.
In February 2016, Zubair launched a new Mega Body Shop facility in Sohar.
In November 2015, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles selected Dhofar Automotive‘s CRM network as a best practice in the Middle East
region.
Zubair Automotive Group (Privately Owned) Oman
Oman
Source: Company Website
Page | 82
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016
Sameena Ahmad
Managing Director
sameena.ahmad@alpencapital.
com
+971 (0) 4 363 4345
Siraj Bhavnagarwalla
Managing Director
s.bhavnagarwalla@alpencapital.
com
+968 (0) 2 494 6611
Krishna Dhanak
Executive Director
krishna.dhanak@alpencapital.
com
+971 (0) 4 363 4324
Payal Doshi
Vice President
payal.doshi@alpencapital.
com
+971 (0) 4 363 4384
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Page | 83
GCC Automobile Industry
| December 7, 2016