Aito Drives into UAE: Huawei-Backed EV Brand Expands

2026-02-09 companies

Dubai, Monday, 9 February 2026.
Aito, supported by Huawei, expands to the UAE in February 2026, marking its first export foothold. The Aito 9 has already begun test drives, with vehicles arriving at Dubai port.

Strategic Partnership with Performance Plus Motors

Seres (601127.SS), the Chinese automaker behind the Aito brand, announced on Friday, February 6, 2026, a strategic agreement with Abu Dhabi-based Performance Plus Motors to facilitate its entry into the Middle East market [1][3]. Performance Plus Motors, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Motors (ADM), will manage Aito’s sales, delivery, and after-sales service in the UAE [1][2]. The partnership was formalized in Chongqing, China [2][4].

Aito’s Expansion Strategy

Aito’s move into the UAE represents a key step in its globalization strategy, as the company seeks to expand beyond China’s competitive market [1][2]. Jason Wang, President of Seres’ overseas business unit, emphasized that this collaboration marks a new starting point for exploring the luxury new energy vehicle market in the Middle East [1][2]. Aito previously presented its global lineup at the Munich car show in September [1].

Product Lineup and Localization

Aito is launching its M9 flagship SUV, M7 family SUV, and M5 mid-size performance SUV in the UAE [8]. These models feature Huawei’s intelligent vehicle technology, including AI voice control and LiDAR-based driver assistance [8]. The vehicles have been localized for Middle Eastern conditions, featuring Arabic, English, and Chinese voice interfaces, reinforced cooling, and desert-grade filtration [8].

Market Dynamics and Future Plans

Chinese EV makers are increasingly targeting the Gulf region due to rising trade barriers in Europe and the United States [8]. The Gulf market offers high disposable income, rapid EV infrastructure development, and a neutral trade environment [8]. Aito aims to enhance its presence in the Middle East and expand into surrounding regions [1][4]. Commercial launches and test drives in the UAE are expected around March 2026 [8].

Sources

electric vehicles huawei