Buying a car as an expat can be a tricky business. Read our guide to the top selling cars for expats in the UAE.

 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a popular location for expatriates (expats) over the years as a result of a high standard of living, which includes top quality vehicles of practically all makes and models at a lower cost than in the United States or the United Kingdom. Toyotas are the top selling cars for expats, but before you decide which make and model is best for you, as well as whether to purchase a new or used vehicle, doing your homework to discover more about the vehicle buying process can help make your transition into the UAE more pleasant.

Benefits of Living in the UAE Include An Excellent Vehicle Selection at a Lower Cost

With the benefit package of living in an oil rich region of the world, the UAE offers expats a selection of practically any vehicle desirable along with inexpensive fuel costs and reasonable maintenance expenses. As a result, you will likely be able to afford a higher end vehicle here due to the reduced overall prices on cars and related expenses.

Luxury Vehicles Are Expat Favorites

Many expats choose to purchase a luxury vehicle from the makes of Toyota, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and more. The Toyota Land Cruiser seems to be particularly popular due to its off-road capabilities while providing an extremely comfortable ride in urban areas. The Audi Q5 provides luxury at its best with a long list of features and an ultra smooth ride. The Mercedes-Benz G550 offers incredible power with total comfort.

More Affordable Options Are Preferred for Some Expats

Buyers who are seeking a quality vehicle at a lower price are likely to be interested in vehicles produced by Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Jeep, Nissan, and more, as well as more basic models produced by Toyota. The Ford Edge provides roomy comfort with a great ride, while the Chevy Tahoe balances off road abilities with urban economy. Nissan produces the Tiida, popular with expats due to its spaciousness and style.

Buying a Used Vehicle is Usually Your Best Bet

Regardless of which vehicle make and model you feel best meets your needs, deciding whether to buy new or used will significantly affect the cost of your car. Because of the high depreciation rate in the UAE, purchasing a vehicle that is in excellent used condition is generally considered the best choice for expats, allowing you to obtain the most value for your money.

Professional Dealerships Offer Advantages Over Private Sellers

If you agree that purchasing a used car is the way to go, your next step will be to decide between purchasing through a professional or a private seller. Because of the large number of high quality used cars on the market, the ease of dealing directly with a dealer who will handle the necessary paperwork for you, as well as professional service inspections provided by on-site mechanics, most expats prefer working with professional sellers rather than rolling the dice and dealing with a private seller.

 

If you are looking to buy a car, contact us to speak with one of our advisers.