New Showroom and Local Footprint
GAC's regional push includes an expanded UAE retail footprint. Gargash Motors, the brand's local distributor, opened GAC Motor's largest UAE showroom in Deira, Dubai, in January 2026, giving the brand a stronger physical base in one of the city's most active automotive retail districts.
Dual-Powertrain Strategy for Gulf Markets
At the Auto China 2026 exhibition, GAC positioned its i60 and N60 models, which the company describes as its "Overseas Twin Stars," at the centre of its global expansion messaging. The models are built around a dual-powertrain approach covering both pure electric and range-extended options, giving GCC buyers a choice between full EV and hybrid-style ownership within the same model family.
James Wang, Vice President of GAC International, said at the Beijing Auto Show 2026 that the company's expansion across the Middle East and Africa would be built around products matched to local driving habits, climate conditions and infrastructure readiness.
A Broader Shift in How Chinese Automakers Approach the Gulf
GAC's approach reflects a wider change in how Chinese carmakers are treating the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Rather than viewing the Gulf primarily as an export destination for petrol vehicles or early-stage EV launches, manufacturers including GAC are now investing in local showrooms, service networks and parts operations, alongside a broader mix of SUVs, EVs, range-extended models and hybrids designed specifically with Gulf road and climate conditions in mind.
What This Means for UAE Car Buyers and Fleet Operators
For UAE car buyers, GAC's expanded local presence means easier access to sales, service and spare parts support for its models, which has historically been a concern for buyers considering newer Chinese brands entering the market. The dual-powertrain strategy also gives buyers concerned about EV charging infrastructure the option of a range-extended model as a stepping stone toward full electrification.
For fleet operators and rental or leasing companies evaluating whether to add Chinese EV and hybrid models to their fleets, a stronger local distributor network, backed by dedicated showroom infrastructure and after-sales support, reduces some of the operational risk associated with newer market entrants, including parts availability and resale value uncertainty.
Market Context
GAC's expansion comes as the UAE government has set a target of 300,000 EVs on UAE roads by 2030, equivalent to roughly 10 percent of the country's total vehicle fleet, part of the UAE's wider Net Zero 2050 strategy. This national target is helping to shape demand for a broader mix of electrified vehicles across price points and brands, including newer entrants such as GAC.
Key Facts
● Gargash Motors opened GAC Motor's largest UAE showroom in Deira, Dubai, in January 2026.
● GAC's i60 and N60 models were presented as its 'Overseas Twin Stars' at Auto China 2026.
● Both models follow a dual-powertrain strategy covering pure electric and range-extended options.
● James Wang, GAC International Vice President, outlined the company's Middle East and Africa expansion strategy at the Beijing Auto Show 2026.
● The UAE targets 300,000 EVs on its roads by 2030, about 10 percent of the national vehicle fleet.
Sources
Gulf News — GAC Expands in UAE and GCC With EVs, Hybrids and SUVs Tailored for Gulf Roads and Drivers (April 25, 2026)
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