RELY R8 Pickup Truck Launches in UAE from AED 59,900

Chery Commercial Vehicle UAE has officially launched the RELY brand and its R8 mid-size pickup truck in the UAE, marking the brand's GCC debut. The vehicle was unveiled at an event in Al Quoz, Dubai on February 10, 2026, with Al Ghurair Mobility serving as the exclusive distributor.

This launch represents a strategic move into the competitive one-tonne pickup segment, targeting fleet operators, small-to-medium enterprises, contractors, and private buyers looking for value. The R8 arrives with aggressive pricing that undercuts established rivals by a significant margin.

Here's what you need to know.

RELY R8 UAE Pricing and Variants

The RELY R8's most compelling feature is its starting price. The base petrol Standard 2WD model begins at just AED 59,900 (excluding VAT). That's AED 62,895 with the UAE's 5% VAT included.

The full variant lineup is as follows:

• Standard Petrol (2WD, 5MT): AED 59,900
• Comfort Petrol (4WD, 5MT): AED 69,900
• Standard Diesel (2WD, 6MT): AED 63,900
• Comfort Diesel (4WD, 6MT): AED 72,900
• Limited Diesel (4WD, 8AT): AED 89,900 - 94,395 (VAT inclusive)

These prices position the R8 squarely as a value champion. To put it in perspective, a similarly equipped Toyota Hilux double cab 4WD starts around AED 115,000. The RELY R8 offers a potential saving of over AED 50,000 for buyers who don't require the badge prestige.

The vehicle is available for immediate purchase at the RELY showroom in Ras Al Khor, Dubai.

2026 RELY R8 Key Specifications and Dimensions

Built on a rugged body-on-frame chassis, the R8 is designed for both work and lifestyle duties. Its dimensions are competitive for the mid-size segment.

• Length/Width/Height: 5,370 mm x 1,960 mm x 1,880 mm
• Wheelbase: 3,230 mm
• Cargo Bed: 1,530 x 1,620 x 515 mm
• Payload Capacity: 1,000 kg
• Fuel Tank: 80 litres
• Suspension: Double wishbone (front), leaf spring (rear)
• Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear
• Seating: 5-passenger cabin

The generous 80-litre fuel tank is a boon for long-distance driving or remote worksites common in the GCC. The 1,000 kg payload meets the needs of most commercial and personal use cases.

RELY R8 Engine and Performance Options

Buyers have a choice between two engine types, catering to different priorities: cost-efficiency or torque.

The petrol option is a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated Mitsubishi-sourced unit producing 158 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

For those needing more grunt, the diesel option is the standout. It's a 2.3-litre turbocharged Dongfeng engine delivering 161 horsepower and a substantial 420 Nm of torque. This engine comes with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission on the top Limited trim.

The combination of high torque and available four-wheel-drive makes the diesel R8 particularly suited for towing, off-road use, and handling the heavy loads often encountered in regional construction and logistics.

GCC Angle: Why the R8 Matters Here

The UAE's logistics, construction, and SME sectors are booming. The RELY R8 enters this market with a compelling package tailored to regional demands.

The 5-year/200,000 km warranty is a major confidence-builder, addressing a common concern about newcomer brands. Scheduled maintenance is required every 10,000 km or 6 months at authorized service centers, a standard interval for the segment.

Its mechanical simplicity—robust ladder frame, proven engine choices, and capable 4WD system—is ideal for the harsh Gulf environment. The vehicle is built to handle desert heat, rough terrain, and the stop-start traffic of urban deliveries.

From a pure value perspective, it disrupts a segment long dominated by Japanese and American brands. For business owners counting every dirham, the R8 presents a financially attractive alternative without sacrificing core capability.

Executive Insights on the RELY R8 Launch

The launch event highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership for the region.

Oscar Rivoli, CEO of Motors Al Ghurair Mobility, stated: "The launch of RELY R8 reflects our deepening relationship with Chery Commercial Vehicle and our commitment to supporting the UAE’s rapidly growing logistics and transport sectors with reliable, high-value vehicles."

She Cairong, President of Chery Commercial Vehicle International, added: "This partnership represents an important step in expanding our commercial vehicle presence in the GCC. We are confident the R8, with its blend of durability, technology, and competitive pricing, will resonate with UAE customers."

What's Next for the RELY R8 in the GCC

With the UAE launch complete, the focus shifts to getting buyers behind the wheel. Test drives are expected to be available shortly at the Ras Al Khor showroom as stock arrives.

The immediate rollout across other GCC nations like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain will be the next logical step, though official dates for those markets have not yet been announced. Given the price-sensitive nature of the commercial vehicle sector across the Gulf, the R8's value proposition could see rapid adoption.

For now, the message is clear: a new, aggressively priced player has entered the UAE's pickup truck arena. The RELY R8 is here, and it's aiming straight at the heart of the value-focused buyer.