The UAE is known for its sprawling roads, scenic highways, and challenging terrains—from the smooth city streets of Dubai to the rugged deserts of Liwa. In a country that offers such a dynamic driving environment, owning a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) has become more than a trend—it’s a necessity for many.
SUVs in the UAE are especially popular among families, expats, professionals, and off-road enthusiasts. Their popularity stems from their versatility, safety, high ground clearance, and superior performance, especially under the UAE’s extreme weather conditions.
Whether you’re buying your first SUV or upgrading to a newer model in 2025, this guide breaks down the top 10 best SUVs in UAE. We’ll help you understand tyre what makes each model stand out—from design and engine performance to price, features, and fuel economy—so you can make a confident decision tailored to your lifestyle.
1. Toyota Land Cruiser
Performance & Specifications
The Toyota Land Cruiser is widely regarded as the king of the desert—and for good reason. Under the hood, its twin-turbo V6 engine delivers 409 hp with 650 Nm of torque, making it incredibly capable on dunes, highways, and mountains alike.
The full-time 4WD drivetrain, 10-speed automatic transmission, and multi-terrain monitor further enhance its driving experience, especially for those who frequent desert safaris or live in mountainous Emirates like Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah.
Features & Interior
Toyota didn’t hold back on the cabin design. This SUV boasts ventilated seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, head-up display, wireless charging, and a JBL sound system—all standard in higher trims. With third-row seating, the Land Cruiser comfortably fits 7–8 adults, offering enough cargo space for long family trips.
Price & Value for Money
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Starting Price: AED 238,000
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Top Variant: Up to AED 330,000+
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Pros: Long-lasting engine, low maintenance, high resale value
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Cons: Premium price, slightly lower fuel economy
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Best For: Adventurers, large families, high-mileage drivers
2. Nissan Patrol
Engine & Drivability
The Nissan Patrol is a cult classic, often dubbed the “hero of the dunes.” The latest model sports a powerful 5.6L V8 engine, delivering 400 hp and 560 Nm of torque. It’s backed by an intelligent 4WD system with selectable driving modes for sand, rock, snow, and tarmac.
Its Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) ensures an ultra-smooth drive, minimizing body roll and enhancing cornering performance—perfect for families that need comfort and thrill in equal measure.
Cabin Design & Features
Luxury meets practicality inside the Patrol. You’ll find quilted leather seating, dual-screen infotainment with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bose audio, and a rear entertainment system—ideal for long drives to Hatta or Al Ain.
Market Comparison
Despite offering similar performance to the Land Cruiser, the Patrol often comes in at a lower price point, with more interior tech. However, it has a slightly lower resale value in comparison.
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Starting Price: AED 210,000
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Top Trim Price: AED 298,000
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Best For: Comfort lovers, family use, desert explorers
3. Mitsubishi Montero Sport
Performance Insights
Built for the practical buyer, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a 7-seater SUV powered by a 2.4L turbo diesel engine with 178 hp and 430 Nm torque. It features Super Select II 4WD, ideal for light dune bashing or rough terrain driving in Al Dhaid or Sharjah outskirts.
Design & Functionality
The Montero combines a rugged design with modern touches like LED headlights, leather seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration. Its compact size makes it suitable for daily commutes and tight city parking in areas like Downtown Dubai.
Price & Affordability
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Starting Price: AED 139,000
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Fuel Economy: 11.2 km/l
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Maintenance: Affordable parts and service across UAE
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Best For: Budget adventurers, growing families, expat workers
4. Ford Explorer
Engine Options & Ride Quality
The Explorer stands as a well-rounded SUV with a sporty attitude. Choose from the 2.3L EcoBoost with 300 hp or the 3.0L V6 with 400 hp (in ST trim). It features rear-wheel drive as standard and offers AWD as an option—perfect for UAE’s variable terrains.
Tech & Interior Innovation
The standout feature is Ford’s SYNC 4 system with voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. Additional perks include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and self-parking in higher trims.
Price Breakdown
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Base Model (XLT): AED 169,000
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Top Trim (ST): AED 240,000
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Best For: Tech-savvy buyers, mid-size families, road trippers
5. Kia Sorento
Engine & Drive
The Sorento comes with multiple configurations—2.5L petrol, 3.5L V6, and a hybrid version. The hybrid variant is particularly popular among environmentally-conscious drivers in the UAE.
With a smooth 8-speed automatic, the Sorento delivers responsive handling for city driving and open highways. Paddle shifters and driving modes enhance control.
Technology Features
Top trims include Smart Parking Assist, panoramic sunroof, digital cluster, 360° camera, and Bose premium audio. It’s one of the safest SUVs in its category with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
Price & Reliability
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Starting Price: AED 115,000
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Best For: New families, hybrid SUV buyers, urban dwellers
6. Hyundai Palisade
Powertrain & Performance
Hyundai’s largest SUV, the Palisade, comes with a 3.8L V6 that generates 295 hp and a smooth 8-speed transmission. With good ground clearance and AWD capabilities, it’s ideal for light off-roading and family getaways.
Interior & Space
The highlight is its cavernous interior with 3 rows, dual sunroof, 12.3-inch cluster, and intuitive controls. The rear seats recline for extra comfort, and there’s wireless charging, USB ports in all rows, and tri-zone climate control.
Value Proposition
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Starting Price: AED 152,000
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Warranty: 5 years / unlimited km
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Best For: Comfort seekers, families, long-distance drivers
7. Lexus RX
Power & Hybrid Tech
For those who want a fuel-efficient luxury SUV, the Lexus RX 500h fits the bill. It delivers 366 hp, accelerates 0–100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, and consumes only 6.5L/100km, thanks to its self-charging hybrid system.
Luxury Features
From its handcrafted interior with real wood trims, head-up display, Mark Levinson audio, to Lexus Safety+ package, this SUV offers a first-class experience.
Premium Pricing
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Starting Price: AED 230,000
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Fuel Economy: Best in segment
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Best For: Executives, couples, eco-conscious drivers
8. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Off-Road Capability
Built to conquer, the Grand Cherokee shines with Quadra-Lift air suspension, select-terrain system, and 4WD drivetrain. It offers a class-leading towing capacity of up to 7,200 lbs—great for boating or camping in the UAE’s Northern Emirates.
Interior Amenities
Inside, you’ll find heated/ventilated seats, digital instrument cluster, 10.1” touchscreen, and real wood accents. The cabin is incredibly quiet even at high speeds.
Price Analysis
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Starting Price: AED 160,000
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Summit Reserve: AED 245,000+
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Best For: Weekend adventurers, off-roaders, road trip lovers
| Model | Price (AED) | Power (hp) | Ground Clearance (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laredo | 160,000 | 290 | 215 |
| Limited | 190,000 | 357 | 220 |
| Summit | 245,000 | 357 | 227 |
9. Chevrolet Tahoe
Muscle & Performance
The Tahoe is a full-size SUV with massive cargo space, 9-passenger capacity, and an aggressive 5.3L V8 engine. The newer models also include magnetic ride control and adaptive air suspension for superior comfort.
Interior Size & Comfort
It excels in cabin size and third-row legroom—plus it has an optional 15-inch head-up display, wireless charging, and a rear camera mirror for improved visibility.
Cost & Ownership
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Starting Price: AED 214,000
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Fuel Economy: 7.5 km/l (due to size)
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Best For: Big families, long road trips, frequent movers
10. Mazda CX-9
Performance & Economy
The CX-9 offers a smooth ride with a turbocharged 2.5L engine, producing 227 hp and a fuel economy of 11.5 km/l. It handles like a sedan, but performs like an SUV—ideal for city driving in Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.
Design & Comfort
Mazda’s focus on design is apparent with elegant curves, minimalist dashboard, Nappa leather, and Bose speakers. It’s stylish without being flashy—a solid pick for younger buyers.
Price & Final Verdict
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Starting Price: AED 130,000
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Top Trim: AED 170,000
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Best For: Daily drivers, young couples, mid-size families
Comparison Table: Top 10 SUVs in UAE (2025)
| SUV Model | Starting Price (AED) | Fuel Economy (km/l) | Seating Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Land Cruiser | 238,000 | 8.5 | 7–8 | Families, Off-roaders |
| Nissan Patrol | 210,000 | 8.9 | 8 | Desert Drivers, Tech Lovers |
| Mitsubishi Montero | 139,000 | 11.2 | 7 | Budget Adventurers |
| Ford Explorer | 169,000 | 9.5 | 7 | Families, Daily Commute |
| Kia Sorento | 115,000 | 12.0 | 7 | Budget-conscious Expats |
| Hyundai Palisade | 152,000 | 10.3 | 8 | Comfort Seekers, Families |
| Lexus RX | 230,000 | 13.0 (Hybrid) | 5 | Luxury Buyers |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 160,000 | 9.0 | 5–7 | Adventure Seekers |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | 214,000 | 7.5 | 9 | Big Families, Long Distance |
| Mazda CX-9 | 130,000 | 11.5 | 7 | Young Professionals |
Conclusion
The UAE Top 10 Best SUVs market in 2025 is as diverse as the country’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re after raw power, luxury finishes, or fuel economy, there’s an SUV here for every lifestyle and budget.
Quick Picks:
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Most Versatile: Toyota Land Cruiser
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Most Luxurious: Lexus RX
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Best Value: Kia Sorento
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Most Spacious: Chevrolet Tahoe
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Tech-Loaded Option: Ford Explorer
Pro Tip: Always test drive multiple models. Consider insurance costs, resale value, and dealership network before purchasing.
The UAE doesn’t just drive SUVs—it lives them. Ready to find yours?
