Vietnam’s EV brand VinFast lands in the UAE, combining sleek models, strong partnerships, and serious ambition to win over Gulf drivers.
Vietnamese automaker VinFast has officially entered the UAE market, bringing with it a full lineup of electric vehicles and a clear plan to carve out a local presence. Backed by strong government support for electrification and a growing appetite among UAE drivers for sustainable cars, VinFast is betting big on the region.
From Vietnam to the Gulf
VinFast might be a newcomer to the region, but it’s moving fast. Already Vietnam’s top-selling car brand in 2024, the company has built a solid EV ecosystem and now sources 60% of components locally, aiming for 80% by 2026. Its UAE launch is designed to bring that same high-tech, service-driven approach to a new audience.
The brand’s regional debut is anchored by the VinFast VF 8, an all-electric SUV packed with smart features and wrapped in a luxury design. The VF 8 comes with a 10-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and unlimited battery coverage for the same period — a clear move to build long-term trust. Safety is a major focus, with 11 airbags and a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Local roots through Al Tayer Motors
VinFast has teamed up with Al Tayer Motors, one of the UAE’s most established auto retailers, to handle sales and service. A flagship showroom has opened in Downtown Dubai, showcasing the full lineup — VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, and VF 9 — in a 1,000 sqm space that includes a state-of-the-art workshop.
It’s a launch designed not just to sell cars, but to build credibility and convenience into the ownership experience from day one.
Looking beyond the UAE
VinFast’s Middle East push doesn’t stop at the Emirates. The company plans to expand to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain before the end of 2024. This regional strategy comes as ties deepen between Vietnam and Gulf investors.
One key example: a non-binding agreement signed in late 2024 with Emirati backers led by Emirates Driving Company, securing at least $1 billion in new funding. That’s a major vote of confidence for the Vietnamese brand, which also recently listed on Nasdaq.
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Charging up with Charge&Go
To support its cars on the road, VinFast has signed an MoU with Charge&Go to roll out public charging stations across the UAE. The partnership strengthens the region’s fast-growing EV infrastructure — a crucial piece of the puzzle for wide adoption.
Why the UAE?
The UAE is quickly becoming a hotspot for electric vehicles. EV market revenues are forecast to hit $1.95 billion by 2025, fuelled by policy incentives and shifting consumer preferences. A 2024 survey found 73% of UAE residents are interested in owning an electric car, drawn by better efficiency, smart features, and improved safety. Nearly 40% say they’re ready to buy soon.
Charging demand is also rising. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) recorded a 23.6% increase in EV charging activity in early 2025 — a clear sign that drivers are making the switch.
The government is playing a key role, with free parking for EVs, zero Salik fees, and plans to expand charging networks across the country. There’s even talk of an EV-only lane on Sheikh Zayed Road. All of this supports the UAE’s goal of having 50% of vehicles on the road be electric by 2050 — a target that’s creating real opportunities for brands willing to invest.
What it means
With bold styling, generous warranties, and a serious commitment to the local market, VinFast’s arrival adds a new layer of competition to the Gulf EV space. Backed by trusted local partners and a focus on smart, sustainable mobility, the Vietnamese brand is well placed to make a mark — not just in the UAE, but across the region.
