DP World and Cars24 Launch AED 55 Million Automotive Hub in Dubai — Largest in the Region

DP World and Cars24 have announced a major AED 55 million partnership to build one of the region's largest automotive refurbishment facilities at Dubai's National Industries Park (NIP). The 220,000 sq. ft. solar-powered hub will process more than 100,000 vehicles annually and create over 200 new jobs in its first phase.

Construction begins in November 2025, with operations scheduled to start by August 2026. The facility will have direct connections to DP World's global ports, logistics corridors, and free zones, positioning Dubai as the definitive automotive hub for the Middle East and Africa.

Here's what you need to know about this game-changing development for the GCC automotive market.

Why This Automotive Hub Matters for Dubai

This isn't just another industrial facility — it's a strategic move that solidifies Dubai's position as the automotive capital of the region. The Middle East and Africa used car market generated over $100 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at 4.9% annually from 2025 to 2030.

Abdulla Al Hashmi, COO Parks & Zones at DP World GCC, stated: "Cars24's new facility will anchor Dubai's position as the region's automotive hub. This partnership strengthens our automotive cluster and supports Dubai's vision to become the world's leading automotive marketplace."

The timing couldn't be better. With Dubai announcing plans for the world's largest car market in 2024 through a partnership between DP World and Dubai Municipality, this new facility adds critical infrastructure to support that vision.

What the AED 55 Million Facility Will Offer

The 220,000 sq. ft. facility will be solar-powered and equipped with state-of-the-art technology for vehicle refurbishment. Here's what buyers and sellers can expect:

• Multi-brand refurbishment for all vehicle types
• Pre-delivery inspections with 140+ checkpoints
• After-sales services and maintenance
• Export-ready preparation for regional markets
• Certifications including Dubai RTA approval and Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) 5-Star quality rating

But here's the most interesting part: the facility will specifically focus on the growing demand from electric vehicle manufacturers and Chinese OEMs entering the GCC market.

Abhinav Gupta, CEO of Cars24 Arabia, explained: "Our new centre will set a benchmark for speed, reliability and sustainability. Located in NIP, it offers world-class infrastructure and seamless access to trade routes, enabling us to serve customers across the Middle East and Africa more efficiently."

GCC Market Impact: Better Quality Used Cars

For consumers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and across the GCC, this facility means one thing: higher quality used cars with proper certification.

The 140+ checkpoint inspection process ensures that every vehicle meets stringent quality standards before reaching the market. This addresses one of the biggest concerns for used car buyers in the region — uncertainty about vehicle condition.

The facility's focus on electric vehicles is particularly significant. By refurbishing and extending the lifespan of used EVs, the hub supports regional EV adoption while reducing emissions from new vehicle production.

And the best part? With capacity to process more than 100,000 vehicles annually, this facility will significantly increase the supply of quality-certified used cars across the GCC.

Strategic Location at National Industries Park

The choice of National Industries Park (NIP) is no accident. NIP offers direct connectivity to DP World's global logistics network, including:

• Jebel Ali Port — the region's largest port
• Al Maktoum International Airport for air freight
• Road networks connecting to GCC markets
• Free zone benefits for automotive businesses

This location gives Cars24 and its customers seamless access to international supply chains and regional distribution networks. Vehicles can be imported, refurbished, and exported with minimal delays and maximum efficiency.

The facility adds to DP World's existing automotive cluster in NIP and Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), creating a comprehensive ecosystem for automotive businesses in Dubai.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

The project will create over 200 new jobs in its first phase alone, with more expected as operations scale up. These positions will span various specialties:

• Automotive technicians and mechanics
• Quality control inspectors
• Logistics and supply chain professionals
• Administrative and support staff

This job creation supports Dubai's economic diversification goals while developing local expertise in automotive refurbishment and quality assurance.

What This Means for the Future of GCC Automotive

This AED 55 million investment signals a major shift in how the GCC automotive market operates. Here's why:

For buyers: Expect more certified pre-owned vehicles with transparent inspection reports and proper certifications. This reduces risk and increases confidence in the used car market.

For sellers: Access to professional refurbishment services that can increase vehicle value and marketability, especially for export to other GCC countries and Africa.

For the industry: A benchmark for quality standards in vehicle refurbishment that other facilities will need to match. This raises the bar for the entire regional automotive sector.

The facility's focus on sustainability through solar power and EV refurbishment aligns perfectly with GCC sustainability initiatives, particularly the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative.

Timeline and Next Steps

Construction begins in November 2025, with the facility expected to be operational by August 2026. This aggressive timeline reflects the urgency of meeting growing demand in the regional automotive market.

As operations begin, consumers can expect to see more Cars24-certified vehicles entering the market with enhanced quality assurance. The facility will also serve as a model for similar developments across the GCC.

DP World and Cars24 have positioned this partnership as just the beginning of their collaboration in the automotive space. With Dubai's automotive market continuing to grow, additional investments and facilities are likely to follow.

The Bottom Line for GCC Car Buyers

If you're in the market for a used car in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, or anywhere in the GCC, this development is excellent news. The AED 55 million facility represents:

1. Higher quality standards through rigorous 140+ point inspections
2. Better certification with Dubai RTA and MoIAT approvals
3. More options with capacity for 100,000+ vehicles annually
4. EV focus supporting sustainable transportation choices
5. Regional access through Dubai's strategic logistics hub

The facility's August 2026 operational date means these benefits will start reaching consumers within the next two years. Until then, the announcement itself signals growing confidence in the GCC automotive market and Dubai's role as its central hub.

As Abdulla Al Hashmi of DP World noted, the Middle East and Africa used car market is already a $100 billion industry with strong growth projections. This investment ensures Dubai will remain at the center of that growth for years to come.

Source: Gulf News, Dubai Government Media Office