The Middle East automotive aftermarket is showcasing is gathering this week at the region’s largest trade exhibition, Automechanika Dubai, which opened its doors on 10 December at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
The event was inaugurated by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning and Well-Being Pillar and Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Running until 12 December, this 21st edition highlights the expanding influence of the aftermarket sector across the region.
This year’s edition is the largest in its history, reflecting the aftermarket’s upward trajectory. The exhibition features 2,228 exhibitors—a 15% year-on-year increase—spanning over 83,000 square metres, an 18% rise from 2023, and filling 17 halls. Companies from 62 countries are participating, further underlining the Middle East’s growing status as a global hub connecting key markets across Africa, Asia, and the CIS.
Regional Market Growth in Focus
The booming automotive aftermarket is evident in the significant representation of companies from across the region. Saudi exhibitors, including Middle East Battery Company, Minerets Tech, and Tadawol Trading Company, demonstrate the Kingdom’s increasing investments in the sector. Meanwhile, UAE-based companies like Autohub Conexus, Nissens, and Polarix are debuting at the event, joining industry veterans such as AMAP, Central Motors, and HAPCO Group.
This regional growth aligns with broader market trends that point to increased demand for spare parts, advanced technologies, and sustainable solutions.
Pioneering Features Highlight Market Evolution
Automechanika Dubai 2024 introduces new features aimed at fostering innovation in the aftermarket:
- PowerTread Workshop: A detailed exploration of advancements in tyres and batteries.
- Future Fleet & Telematics Workshop: Bringing together industry leaders to discuss the latest telematics trends shaping fleet management.
In addition, the Innovation4Mobility feature underscores the aftermarket’s role in driving the transition to future mobility. Sessions by industry leaders explored topics such as behavioural change for sustainable mobility, electrification trends, and actionable strategies for building greener urban environments.
Growing Connections with Southeast Asia
This year’s event also shines a spotlight on Southeast Asia’s contribution to the region’s aftermarket growth. Experts discussed the pivotal role of automotive companies from this region in shaping the UAE’s thriving aftermarket industry, highlighting the increasing importance of international partnerships.
Skills, Innovation, and Recognition
Automechanika Dubai’s popular competitions continue to highlight the importance of expertise and innovation within the sector. The PitStop Challenge and the new Find the Fault competition emphasise the demand for skilled technicians as the industry embraces cutting-edge technologies.
Further underscoring the aftermarket’s growth, the Automechanika Dubai Awards celebrate the achievements of regional and global companies and individuals. Winners will be announced on 11 December during a dedicated ceremony.
Cross-Sector Collaboration
Running alongside Automechanika Dubai is Logimotion, a logistics-focused event. This collaboration highlights how the aftermarket is intersecting with other industries, creating new opportunities for innovation and market expansion.
A Positive Outlook for the Future
“The remarkable growth of Automechanika Dubai reflects the dynamic expansion of the automotive aftermarket industry in the Middle East. The record-breaking number of exhibitors and new features demonstrate how this sector continues to evolve, driving regional and global innovation,” said Bilikozen, the event organiser.
As the event continues until 12 December, the Middle East automotive aftermarket’s strong momentum is on full display, confirming the region’s central role in the global automotive ecosystem.
