In line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to establish and develop the Dubai Auto Market as the largest and most advanced of its kind in the world, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, witnessed the launch of the market’s development project, which will span 22 million square feet.
During the launch event, His Highness also unveiled the market’s new visual identity. The project is being developed by DP World, drawing on its extensive global logistics expertise and its ability to connect markets across continents.
Dubai’s Vision, Brought to Life
Speaking at the launch, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said:
“Guided by the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s foremost economic and commercial hubs.”
He further emphasized the alignment of the market with Dubai’s long-term goals:
“The Dubai Auto Market project embodies this ambitious vision. It adds significant value by reinforcing Dubai’s place among the fastest-growing cities in the global automotive trade sector—built on advanced infrastructure and a world-class logistics network managed by DP World that spans continents.”
Positioned as a global destination, the project is designed not only to facilitate trade, but also to support investment, innovation, and economic diversification:
“This project is a fully integrated destination and a global center that brings together car enthusiasts, investors, and businesses under one roof. With its dynamic facilities and ability to host major automotive events and conferences, it will also support light industries related to vehicle trade and assembly. The market is set to attract new investments that will drive economic growth and support the goals of Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda—to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033 and position it among the world’s top three economic cities.”
A New Global Hub for Automotive Trade
In a post shared via X, Sheikh Maktoum stated:
“Today we launch the Dubai Auto Market—set to become the world’s largest, spanning 22 million square feet, with over 1,500 showrooms and integrated facilities capable of handling 800,000 vehicles annually. It is a platform for investors, companies, individuals, and car lovers, supporting the trade of electric, hybrid, and conventional vehicles, and connecting Dubai to global markets through DP World’s logistics network. The market will boost trade, attract high-value investments, and contribute to the D33 Agenda—keeping Dubai at the forefront of global economic leadership.”
Strategic Features and Economic Impact
The Dubai Auto Market will feature:
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Over 1,500 showrooms
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Multi-level warehouses and workshops
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A hotel, auction house, conference center, and food and retail zones
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Annual capacity for up to 800,000 vehicles
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Customs, employee housing, and inspection services
The market is set to transform Dubai into a central hub for the global automotive industry, supporting the import, export, and re-export of electric, hybrid, and traditional vehicles. It also aims to connect exporters with high-demand markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Projections indicate that the UAE’s automotive export and re-export volumes will nearly double by 2030, with the new market playing a key role in achieving that growth. Dubai already leads the Gulf in used car trade, and Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)—home to more than 940 automotive and spare parts companies, including giants like Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, and Volkswagen—will be instrumental in supporting the market’s logistics.
Backed by Global Expertise
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, described the launch as a milestone:
“This market is a key step in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global trade gateway. With the capabilities of Jebel Ali Port and our global automotive supply chain network, the Dubai Auto Market will accelerate economic growth and enhance the region’s automotive trade ecosystem.”
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World – GCC, added:
“Our goal is to create a fully integrated destination that meets all automotive sector needs with world-class infrastructure and a new standard of service. We’re working closely with the business community to ensure that this market is truly designed around the needs of the industry.”
A Global Benchmark in Automotive Trade
The project is part of a strategic partnership between Dubai Municipality and DP World’s Economic Zones Sector, aimed at turning Dubai into the world’s leading destination for innovation and trade in the automotive sector. The market will serve as a vital node in DP World’s global network, which currently manages 10% of the world’s car trade.
