Li Auto has officially signed partnership agreements with Al Fahim Motors in the UAE and Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors in Saudi Arabia, marking the Chinese brand’s first major push into the Middle East market. The agreements were finalized at Li Auto’s headquarters in Beijing as part of the company’s wider international expansion strategy.

The move will bring Li Auto’s L-series extended-range electric SUVs to both countries, including models such as the Li L6, Li L7, Li L8, and Li L9. Unlike traditional EVs, these vehicles use Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology, combining an electric drivetrain with a petrol-powered generator that helps recharge the battery during longer journeys. This setup is designed to reduce charging anxiety while maintaining the smooth driving experience of an electric vehicle.

Li Auto says the Middle East is a key market for premium family-focused vehicles, especially in countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia where long-distance driving and growing interest in new-energy vehicles are shaping customer demand. The company also highlighted its focus on spacious interiors, advanced driver-assistance systems, and intelligent cockpit technology aimed at family buyers.

For the UAE market, Al Fahim Motors will oversee sales and distribution, with the partnership aligning with the country’s sustainability initiatives including UAE Vision 2031 and Net Zero 2050 goals. Saudi Arabia’s Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors will handle Li Auto’s entry into the Kingdom, where demand for premium electrified SUVs continues to grow.

The expansion is also part of Li Auto’s broader global strategy. Alongside the Middle East rollout, the automaker confirmed plans to enter Cambodia, Laos, Macau, and Myanmar, while also preparing for its European debut at the 2026 Paris Motor Show.

As Chinese automotive brands continue to strengthen their global presence, Li Auto’s arrival in the Gulf could add further competition to the region’s rapidly growing premium EV and hybrid SUV market, especially as more buyers look for practical electrified alternatives that suit long-distance regional driving conditions.