According to statistics, Geely gained popularity in the UAE market and neighboring countries, including the KSA. But why is Geely UAE a significant player, and the main question is whether it is as reliable as the automotive manufacturers announce? We will discuss this in this article, compare Geely with other Chinese cars, and analyze its characteristics and advantages.
Cars in the UAE should be reliable and durable, due to the hot climate and heavy traffic. Let’s figure out how well this brand’s cars suit the UAE market, which customers it will appeal to most, and who its target audience is.
Feature-rich Geely as a Global Automotive Brand
Geely Holding currently controls a diverse portfolio of brands and companies, including automotive brands such as Geely Auto and Volvo Cars. In 2024, approximately 2.17 million Geely vehicles were sold worldwide. During the first half of 2025, Geely sold about 1.409 million cars. In the Middle East region, including the UAE, the company reports that its models rank among the top three Chinese brands by sales in several countries.
Geely’s current position combines the desire to become an affordable brand offering high-quality and innovative technologies with a focus on comfort. It is no coincidence that the company’s slogan is “Happy Life, Geely Drive!”
Geely invests in technology, focusing primarily on automotive research and development of electric vehicles. This includes creating its own platforms for Geely hybrids to solve electrical issues. The company also invests in autonomous driving technology, digitalization, communication and internet systems, and even aerospace technology, mobile services, and progressive technologies.
Build Quality and Materials in Geely Cars
Geely is not a luxury automobile brand, and some of its basic models use plastic interior trim. Still, owners say that even in this version, the interior is comfortable, the parts don’t squeak, and the plastic doesn’t feel “cheap.” Overall, for its price range, Geely provides solid build quality and practicality, with eco-leather or leather options, great sound insulation, comfy seats, and a smooth ride to satisfy customers’ needs and preferences. Despite their simplicity and affordability, Geely cars feature precise seams, well-fitted panels, and bodies that meet safety standards, as evidenced by high ratings in independent crash tests such as Euro NCAP, ANCAP, and C-NCAP.
Engine, Transmission, and Technical Reliability
In calm driving conditions on normal city roads with moderate loads, the Geely powertrain demonstrates stability, according to available reviews, with no significant complaints about overheating, excessive wear, or widespread breakdowns. The petrol engine and transmission offer acceptable performance and require less expensive maintenance than those of premium brands. The engine power ranges from 218 hp and above, and, as already mentioned, they are fuel-efficient for vehicles in their class.
Electronics and Safety Features Performance
Drivers note in their reviews that the cars have a sound infotainment system, including a perfectly functioning radio, Bluetooth, navigation/maps, phone compatibility (e.g., via CarPlay/Android Auto), or similar functionality.
Many new Geely models come with modern driver assistance systems: parking assistants, cameras (sometimes with 360° view), maneuvering assistance systems, basic safety systems (ABS, airbags, possibly Electronic Stability Program – an electronic system for maintaining the vehicle’s directional stability).
Fuel Consumption and Operating Costs
Fuel consumption depends on the car model and operating conditions. For example, the Geely Monajro consumes approximately 7.3 l/100 km in the suburban cycle and about 8.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle.
Geely is one of the leading brands for fuel economy, especially appreciated by people in countries with high petrol prices.
Long-Term Ownership and Maintenance Experience
Geely cars perform well for 3-5 years, but car owners sometimes report common issues, including engine problems that can develop over time. It is essential to have regular mechanical inspections, especially if driving conditions are harsh, such as city driving with frequent braking, riding on rough roads in hot, dusty conditions, or during a sandstorm. For Geely owners, it is recommended to maintain every 10-15 thousand miles or once a year, whichever comes first. For new vehicles in the UAE, a “zero” maintenance check is required after 2-3 thousand miles or 1-3 months after purchase to maintain engine performance at its peak.
Regular technical inspections and attention to your car’s condition will help increase its resale value if you decide to sell it later. It will also help lower long-term maintenance costs.
Geely SUV Cars vs Other Budget and Mid-Range Brands
When choosing between Geely and other brands, you may find it difficult, as many new names have entered the market. Each brand offers something unique and new, and it is quite easy to get confused. Let’s compare the models of other Chinese car brands with the Geely SUV in UAE.
Geely VS Haval
- Geely: The Geely Monjaro is a better choice if you want premium comfort and technology at a mid-range price, moderate fuel consumption, and a decent set of features without overpaying for the brand. Geely offers drivers more technology and more comfort in this segment, such as adaptive CCD suspension, massage and ventilated seats, excellent air conditioning, a 540° camera, and L2 assistants (autonomous driving). It also has relatively low fuel consumption for a powerful engine. Geely has received a lot of positive feedback, with real users noting the decent build quality, functional assistants, and good driving experience. On Reddit, an owner with 1,500 km on the clock is satisfied with the quality, assistants, and terms of the deal.
- Haval: If we take the Haval H6 as an example, it is cheaper (around AED 80,000 and above), well-balanced in terms of technology and warranties, and a strong choice if you want to save money at the start while still enjoying strong manufacturer support. Reviews in the region note the spacious interior, modern systems that are useful in the city and on the highway, and competitive fuel economy. Thus, the Haval 6 is a better choice if you want to spend less at the outset.
Geely VS Jetour
The Jetour is more versatile with off-road abilities. If you need a car that handles rougher roads better, the Jetour will do the job. For example, on Reddit, in a vote between Geely Starray and Jetour Dashing, Geely wins. However, Jetour Dashing is more affordable.
But in general, if you want affordable prices and proven quality, Geely is unmatched. If you need versatility and off-road capability, go with Jetour. Geely outsells Jetour overall, partly because of the popularity of models like the Atlas and Monjaro. This clearly suggests that finding spare parts and getting service for Geely will be easier in the near future.
Geely VS BYD
The Geely is typically a more comfortable, quieter cruiser. Meanwhile, the BYD is seen as more agile and sporty, particularly in urban settings. Both companies also compete on pricing, with Geely often launching models that are either more budget-friendly or offer more features at a similar cost to BYD’s offerings.
Current Geely Prices: New and Used Cars
Geely cars start at AED 55,000 for new models. When purchasing from an official dealer, you can receive up to AED 12,000 cashback, as stated on the official website. They also offer free tinting, up to 5 years of service, and up to 7 years of warranty. However, it is important to check this before purchasing, as terms and special offers are subject to change.
- Geely Emgrand costs from AED 55,000 to 75,000.
- The Geely Coolray price starts from AED 70,000 to 85,000.
- Geely Monjaro and Tugella cost from AED 100,000 to 150,000.
- Used car prices vary. For instance, a used 2024 Geely Emgrand can cost between AED 32,000 and 46,000.
Test Driving Different Car Classes Through Rental in Dubai
Octane offers a vast fleet of top models. From Chinese brands like Geely, Haval, and Jetour, to standard and popular models like Nissan Patrol. To compare cars and figure out which one is right for you, take a test drive and rent a car for any period from one day to a month or even a year.
To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and have at least 3 years of driving experience. Tourists need a passport, a Visit Visa, a Home Country Driving License, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Dubai. Residents must have a UAE Driving License and an Emirates ID (a Residential Visa may also be accepted instead).
For Whom Geely Is a Practical Choice in the UAE
In this section, we will discuss who would benefit from owning a Geely.
- Families and Individuals: Geely is a perfect option for families seeking excellent value for money. Popular mid-size SUVs such as the Geely Monjaro are particularly in demand, as they offer a convenient, spacious trunk, a comfortable interior, and driver-assistance technology. Similarly, if you need a more spacious car, the Haoyue and Okavango models are recommended as six and 7-seater options.
- Urban Trips and Casual Exploitation: Buyers in the UAE appreciate Geely because, in “city traffic” mode, where low-end performance is essential, Geely cars are pretty economical.
- Economy for Travel Between Emirates: Geely isan attractive option for budget-conscious buyers in the United Arab Emirates, with prices starting at AED 55,000 for new models. Used options can be purchased at a low cost. In addition, turbo engines, combined with adequate gearbox tuning, guarantee fuel consumption below the class average.
Experience Geely SUVs in Dubai
At Octane, our fleet includes new Geely models, such as Monjaro, Tugella, and Starray. However, our fleet is expanded and updated every six months. The rental price for Geely starts at AED 130 and can reach AED 300 per day. The longer the rental period, the bigger the discount. What we offer to our clients:
- 24/7 customer support
- Road-ready vehicles with a full tank
- No-deposit rental options
- Wide range of all types of vehicles, from SUVs to sports cars
- Basic insurance and daily 250 km of mileage are included in the price
- Convenient delivery services
- Affordable and transparent prices
- Each vehicle undergoes a 60-point inspection before arriving at the client
- Regular maintenance and servicing: Each car in our fleet is in perfect condition
Our website is user-friendly and designed for quick and intuitive navigation. To rent a car with Octane, follow these steps:
- Choose the vehicle model: Browse categories such as sedans, SUVs, vans, EV cars, and more. To make the search process even faster, use the filters to sort vehicles by price, fuel type, number of seats, and color.
- Set Rental Dates: When you choose the pick-up and drop-off dates, the price will be calculated automatically.
- Send the Request: You can send a booking request directly on the website or contact us via WhatsApp. In either case, you will receive instant confirmation.
Drivers across the UAE and visitors from around the world choose our car rental service, as evidenced by our high ratings on Google Reviews and Trustpilot.
