Digital Innovation and Sustainability Take Center Stage at Automechanika Dubai 2024

From Moshood Karim

Dubai, UAE – The GCC automotive aftermarket is undergoing a significant transformation, with digitalisation and sustainability emerging as critical drivers for growth and innovation in 2024.

This was the central theme at Automechanika Dubai 2024, the region's premier automotive aftermarket event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from December 10-12. 

According to a report presented by Frost & Sullivan during the Automechanika Academy, the GCC light vehicle units in operation reached 16.2 billion in 2024, projected to grow at a CAGR of 1.8% to hit 17 billion by 2027. This expansion reflects the region's growing population, rising income levels, and urbanisation, alongside an increasing demand for aftermarket services. 

One of the most discussed topics at the event was the digitalisation of part trading and retailing. Industry leaders highlighted how digital platforms are revolutionising the automotive aftermarket by offering greater accessibility, efficiency, and transparency for both businesses and consumers.

Sammy Krishnamurthy, Director – Mobility Practice at Frost & Sullivan, stressed that Saudi Arabia and the UAE lead the GCC market, accounting for 51% and 22% of vehicles in operation, respectively, underscoring their role in driving the digital shift. 

The event also spotlighted sustainability initiatives, including advancements in electric and hybrid vehicle services. Sebastian Fuchs, Managing Director at World Automotive Group, shared insights on equipping workshops to cater to the growing demand for EV maintenance and repair.

Meanwhile, Mohit Agarwal from eBay explored how eCommerce is enabling aftermarket businesses to tap into global markets, with a focus on eco-friendly products and solutions. 

Another key trend discussed was the rise of mobile on-demand aftermarket services, which are reshaping consumer expectations for convenience. Seggayi Ashiraf, CEO of PHAMON Automotives, highlighted how mobile platforms are streamlining car servicing, from diagnostics to repairs, making it more accessible for urban and remote customers alike. 

In addition to digitalisation, the GCC's light vehicle aftermarket revenue was a hot topic, with figures projected to grow from $10.7 billion in 2024 to $12 billion by 2027. Ageing vehicle parts, advancements in technology, and a burgeoning market for used cars are driving this growth, according to Frost & Sullivan. 

Automechanika Dubai 2024 also featured a wide range of workshops and conferences, including the Lubricants and Base Oils Conference, the Modern Workshop, and the PowerTread Workshop.

The Innovation4Mobility platform, a central feature of the event, brought together industry pioneers to discuss cutting-edge solutions in the automotive sector. 

Now in its 21st edition, Automechanika Dubai continues to be a critical hub for knowledge-sharing and innovation in the Middle East's automotive aftermarket. As the industry embraces digitalisation and sustainability, events like these play a vital role in shaping the future of mobility in the region.