If you love cars and dream of starting your own business, the used car industry in the UAE is a fantastic opportunity. It’s on the rise, with sales projected to hit over USD 32 billion by 2027. In the UAE, you have a diverse customer base, including locals, expats, and tourists, making it a great place to run a successful used car business.
Here’s what we’ll cover: an overview of the UAE’s used car market, the upsides, the challenges, and how to kickstart your used car business in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE.
Table of Contents
Demand for Used Cars in the UAE
Many factors drive the demand for used cars in the UAE, making it a promising market for business owners:
- Expats: Many expats in the UAE prefer used cars because they often have short stays and value practicality over new vehicles.
- Tourists: The UAE attracts millions of tourists who often look for rental and used cars to explore the country during their visit.
- Cost of Living: The high cost of living in the UAE encourages budget-conscious consumers to choose used cars as a more economical option.
- High Income: With a high per capita income in the UAE, people have more money to spend on goods, including cars.
Additionally, the UAE’s population is growing, expected to reach 11.5 million by 2025, up from 9.9 million in 2022. This population growth will increase the demand for transportation, leading many to opt for used cars because of their affordability.
Read More: How to Start a Car Rental Business in Dubai
Process of Starting a Used Car Business in UAE
Starting a used car business in Dubai involves nine steps:
1. Market Research to Setup a Used Car Business
Understand the demand for used cars and study your competitors to position your business effectively.
2. Business Model:
Decide whether you want a physical dealership, an online platform, or a mix of both.
3. Business Structure:
Choose your business structure, like mainland, free zone, or offshore, depending on your needs.
4. Location and Facilities:
Pick a prime location for your dealership or online platform, ensuring it’s visible and accessible.
5. Registration and Trade License:
Register your business and obtain a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
6. Corporate Bank Account:
Open a corporate bank account to manage financial transactions for your business.
7. Source Used Cars:
Acquire used cars from individuals, auctions, or other dealerships.
8. Inspect and Recondition:
Have the used cars inspected and reconditioned by a qualified mechanic to ensure they meet safety standards.
9. Marketing and Sales:
Market and sell your used cars through various channels like newspapers, online classified websites, or a physical dealership.
Read More: How to Setup a Car Wash Business in Dubai
Cost of Starting a Used Car Business in UAE
Starting a used car business in the UAE can have different costs, and they depend on factors like where you’re located, how big your business is, and your specific plans.
Typically, the license cost to start a used car business in the UAE starts at AED 25,500. You’ll also need to consider other expenses like registration fees, renting showroom space, buying used cars, paying employees, and more.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on costs, it’s a good idea to talk to a UAE business setup advisor. They can help you make informed decisions about your budget.
Supercharge Your UAE Used Car Business with Company Setup Experts
Starting a used car business in Dubai can be challenging but very rewarding. If you’re passionate and willing to work hard, you have a good chance of success. One great tip to make the process smoother is to get help from professionals.
A business setup consultant can assist you with everything, from licenses to business plans and marketing strategies. If you’re looking for a reliable Business Setup consultant, we recommend Company Setup Consultants. They have over 12 years of experience and have helped over 25,000 entrepreneurs start their businesses in the UAE.
For further information and assistance on How to Start a used Car Business in UAE, speak with our experienced consultants. Book your FREE consultation today at +971582595164, +97145187213 or drop us a line on info@companysetup.ae