FREELANDER Launches Globally in Abu Dhabi With FREELANDER 8 as First Model

Saudi Arabia: FREELANDER has officially entered the international automotive market with its Global Brand Launch in Abu Dhabi, marking the UAE as the brand's first international market. The launch took place at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on September 29, 2026, with the FREELANDER 8 introduced as the brand's first strategic nameplate. The launch marks the next stage in FREELANDER's international expansion, with the Middle East serving as its first strategic region outside its home market. The brand has also established its UAE dealer network through Al Tayer Motors and Premier Motors ahead of the launch.

FREELANDER Enters the Global Market From Abu Dhabi

FREELANDER, a British premium intelligent all-terrain brand, is jointly developed by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover. Its global launch in Abu Dhabi follows its earlier announcement at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where the UAE was confirmed as its first international market. For the UAE market, Al Tayer Motors has been appointed as the authorised distributor for Dubai and the Northern Emirates, while Premier Motors represents the brand in Abu Dhabi. The UAE launch also gives FREELANDER a base for its planned expansion into additional international markets.

FREELANDER 8 Is the First Strategic Nameplate

The centrepiece of the global launch is the FREELANDER 8, which becomes the first strategic nameplate under the new brand. FREELANDER 8 has been developed for the new-energy vehicle era and international markets. It brings together three core product pillars:

• British Craftsmanship
• Smart Confidence
• All-Terrain Freedom

The FREELANDER 8 is positioned around premium design, intelligent technology and all-terrain capability. 

Freelander 8 Key Highlights

• First production model from the new Freelander brand
• Mid-to-large intelligent all-terrain SUV
• Mass production began in July 2026 at the Changshu plant in China
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 5,118 mm
  • Width: 2,050 mm
  • Height: 1,926 mm
• Electrified powertrain
• First vehicle in its segment to bring Super Intelligent Valet Parking (SIVP) to the Middle East
• China-market model features Huawei advanced driver assistance technology
• Qualcomm automotive cockpit chipset
• CATL battery technology with fast-charging capability
• Completed cold-weather validation in Sweden at temperatures as low as −30°C
• Co-developed by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover
• Produced by the Chery Jaguar Land Rover joint venture in Changshu, China

UAE Becomes the First International Market

FREELANDER's decision to begin its international expansion in the UAE makes the country the first market outside its initial development and launch programme. The brand's UAE distribution structure is already in place, with Al Tayer Motors handling Dubai and the Northern Emirates and Premier Motors handling Abu Dhabi. The two companies bring an established sales, service and parts infrastructure to the new brand. The launch establishes FREELANDER's first international retail and after-sales network as the company prepares to expand beyond the UAE.

What About FREELANDER in Saudi Arabia?

FREELANDER's UAE launch provides an early look at a new premium brand entering the Middle East. However, a Saudi launch is yet to be confirmed, so the following details for the Kingdom:

• Saudi launch date
• Saudi distributor
• Saudi pricing
• Saudi trim levels
• Saudi powertrain options
• Saudi specifications
• Saudi warranty or after-sales package

The Saudi Arabian launch for FREELANDER has not yet been officially confirmed. Its debut in the UAE signals a strong commitment to the Middle Eastern premium automotive market. So the drivers in the Kingdom can expect localized distributor partnerships, a competitive pricing structure, and robust regional warranty packages once it is launched. 

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