JETOUR has quietly climbed to become one of Dubai’s most recognised automotive brands — a remarkable achievement for a brand that has prioritised genuine customer connection over aggressive marketing.

In October, the company welcomed global media to its headquarters in Wuhu, China, for the “Innovation·Defining the Future: JETOUR Global Media Alliance Tech Tour”, where it unveiled its pioneering GAIA architecture and the first model built on it: the G700.

With pure electric range of 130km and hybrid range extending to 1,200km, the G700 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds while offering capabilities including tank-turning, crab-walk mode, and even amphibious performance.

In this conversation with Gulf Business, Ke Chuandeng, president of JETOUR International, discusses the brand’s historic UAE sales milestone, the strategic thinking behind introducing the G700 to the region, and how JETOUR is building long-term customer trust through its “Travel Plus” philosophy, robust after-sales support, and genuine commitment to understanding what regional customers actually need.

JETOUR recently achieved a significant sales milestone in the UAE. Tell us about the brand’s current position in the market?

In the UAE, and particularly in Dubai, both JETOUR and our partners have been performing exceptionally well. Last month, our retail sales in the UAE reached a new record high, marking a significant milestone in JETOUR’s growth in this market.

Today, JETOUR ranks third among all automotive brands in the UAE — behind only Toyota and Nissan — and we continue to expand rapidly. We’ve built a strong foundation here, and the JETOUR name has become widely recognised, especially for our popular T1 and T2 models, with the T2 standing out as a clear favorite among customers.

What is JETOUR’s strategy to maintain this competitive edge and continue growing in the UAE market?

In November, we will officially introduce the G Series in Dubai, starting with the first model, the G700. The global launch ceremony will be held in the city, where we plan to welcome more than 1,000 delegates, guests, and partners.

From a brand perspective, we continue to uphold our global “Travel Plus” strategy. In the UAE, we are working closely with our local partners to bring this concept to life. For example, we’ve supported cycling events, marathons, fashion weeks, and music festivals — and recently, we lit up the Burj Khalifa to celebrate and promote the JETOUR brand.

Equally important is our focus on after-sales and service. As a foreign brand entering a competitive market, we know that customers are very attentive to service quality and reliability. That’s why we’ve established a dedicated office in Dubai, staffed with a permanent technician and service manager who provide round-the-clock, 24/7 support.

We’ve also set up a regional spare parts center in Jebel Ali, with an inventory valued at over $10m. This ensures we can maintain strong parts availability, not only for Dubai but for the wider region as well.

We believe that having reliable after-sales support and efficient parts supply is essential for customer confidence and for strengthening our brand image in this market.

Your expanding lineup showcases a push toward premium design. How are these new models shaping customer perceptions of the brand, and what customer groups are you targeting next?

JETOUR has already earned strong recognition in this region from customers, users, partners, and the wider market. We believe this is the right time to elevate our brand image, technology, and product lineup.

The T2 has been a successful model, but it was designed primarily for light off-road use. In this region, there’s a clear demand for vehicles that deliver true, professional-grade off-road performance. We have the technology to meet that need, which is why we decided to introduce the G700 here.

Many current JETOUR owners are ready to take that next step. During our first preview in Dubai, we received significant interest from existing customers eager to upgrade from the T2 to the G700 — not only because of the car’s capabilities, but also because of the trust they have in the JETOUR brand. That’s a very positive sign for us.

The G700 is built for high-end customers and off-road enthusiasts. It delivers exceptional power, advanced engineering, and a premium feel. While it’s a true off-road vehicle, it also offers remarkable comfort and luxury. A test drive makes that clear the moment you’re behind the wheel.

It’s also versatile enough for families, with five- and six-seat configurations and a spacious, comfortable interior. With the G700, we believe we can meet the diverse needs of local customers — from adventure seekers to everyday drivers.

The G700 is built on JETOUR’s new GAIA architecture. What makes this platform significant for the region?

The GAIA architecture represents a next-generation hybrid off-road platform that combines uncompromising power with cutting-edge intelligence to meet the demands of modern exploration. GAIA offers two advanced power systems.

The iDM-O super hybrid system is optimised for high-efficiency off-road performance, delivering strong power while maintaining fuel economy. The iEM-O amphibious range extender system provides tank-level propulsion with up to 18,000 N·m of wheel torque and 2,500 N of thrust.

GAIA is built on a dedicated off-road chassis with adjustable suspension travel up to 150mm and maximum ground clearance of 350mm. Capabilities include tank-turning, crab-walk mode, and integrated marine-grade functions for full amphibious performance.

Further enhancing the platform are six core innovations: low-orbit satellite communication, onboard oxygen generation, an immersive AI-powered cockpit, advanced terrain navigation and parking assistance, vehicle-cloud integration, and continuous intelligent system upgrades via over-the-air updates.

How does the G700 perform technically compared to competitors in the region?

The G700 is a high-performance hybrid SUV featuring three motors — a 2.0L turbocharged direct injection fuel engine and two electric motors, one on each axle. The electric system allows for 130km of pure electric driving, while hybrid mode extends range to an impressive 1,200km, making it ideal for long-distance travelers.

Built on the GAIA architecture, the G700 is designed to handle diverse terrains such as mud, deserts, rocks, and water with ease. With 904 horsepower and 1,135 Nm of torque, the G700 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds — an impressive feat given its weight. It features a 100L fuel tank and air suspension, allowing drivers to adjust ride height for obstacles, achieving an approach angle of 35° degrees and departure angle of 28° degrees.

The G700 stands as a strong rival to models like the ROX and Land Rover Defender plug-in hybrid. JETOUR has combined luxury, advanced technology, and mechanical power in a way that stands out in the market — there aren’t many hybrids with such features and technology.

How does JETOUR’s “Travel Plus” philosophy shape the brand’s approach in the UAE?

In Chinese, “Jia”, which translates to “plus”, is phonetically similar to “family” (家). This subtle wordplay reflects JETOUR’s goal: to transform the driving experience into a lifestyle.

With its advanced technology and flexible design, the G-series serves as more than just a car, it’s a second home for customers. JETOUR’s G-series not only serves as a great option for luxury enthusiasts, it also offers options for families with its five-seater and six-seater configurations and offers a great option for travelers with its features.

By introducing the G-series, JETOUR aims to redefine traditional perceptions of “luxury”.

The brand challenges the notion that luxury is reserved for a limited demographic and offers vehicles that blend luxury with practicality, appealing to both families and travel enthusiasts who value comfort and adventure.

Read: Jetour UAE achieves 230% YoY growth with Elite Group Holding

The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference from November 3-6.

Held under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and hosted by ADNOC, ADIPEC 2025 is expected to attract more than 205,000 visitors, including energy producers, policymakers, technology innovators, and investors.

Billed as one of the world’s largest energy gatherings, ADIPEC brings together global leaders to promote collaboration and investment aimed at shaping a resilient and inclusive energy future.

Since moving to ADNEC in 2006, the event has grown significantly, now occupying the full exhibition space as well as temporary halls at the Grandstand, Marina area, and Central Plaza.

ADIPEC 2025 to host over 2,000 exhibitors

This year’s edition will feature more than 2,000 exhibitors, several national pavilions, and dedicated industry zones focused on digitalisation, decarbonisation, maritime and logistics, and artificial intelligence.

“ADIPEC remains a premier and widely participated regional event, uniting global energy leaders to build a more resilient energy sector,” said Ahmed Al Obaidli, COO at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. “Since ADIPEC was first held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi in 2006, the event has expanded significantly in size and scope, becoming one of the biggest events in global scale and dedicated to the energy industry. ADNEC Group remains dedicated to delivering a world-class event experience for visitors, exhibitors, and international energy stakeholders.”

ADNEC said operational teams have implemented international safety and comfort standards for exhibitors, delegates, and visitors.

An integrated transport plan will facilitate access, with parking restricted to permit holders and shuttle services running every five minutes from Zayed Sports City and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The group urged attendees to comply with access and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth event. ADIPEC continues to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s

From Qatar’s record-breaking FIFA World Cup, which brought over 3.4 million fans together in stadiums, to Bahrain’s world-class Formula 1 Grand Prix and Oman’s rising status as a sailing destination, the Middle East is rapidly becoming a global stage for sport. As Dubai gears up to host the World Sports Summit this December under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the region stands on the brink of an even bigger opportunity: to lead the global revolution in sports technology.

The Middle East’s commitment to integrating sports and technology is pioneering new ways to transform fan experiences and advance world-class sports infrastructure.

With passionate audience, visionary governments, and rapid digital adoption, the region is uniquely positioned to set global standards and lead the evolution of next-generation sports experiences.

Building a digital-first sports ecosystem

According to the World Economic Forum, the Middle East’s sports industry is projected to outpace global growth nearly threefold (8.7% vs 3.3% by 2026). The region’s increasingly packed calendar of global sporting events, as well as the trend of high-profile athletes choosing to train here, has elevated the region’s profile and its institutional and organisational strengths.

The future of sports lies in creating digital-first ecosystems where every match, race, or tournament is enriched by data, insight, and interactivity.

The sportstech market is expected to exceed $40bn by 2030, which will see a surge in smart stadiums, immersive fan engagement, and data-driven operations.

The region is ready for this level of innovation. Governments are heavily investing in infrastructure, with mega-projects such as the UAE’s smart stadiums and Saudi Arabia’s sports sector. Regional investments such as the smart stadium projects in the UAE, the Saudi Pro League’s star-powered transformation and Qatar’s post-World Cup sports legacy initiatives are reshaping the fan experience. These projects are not prestige, but tied to national visions (Vision 2030, UAE National Sports Strategy), that see sports as a thrust towards tourism, health and economic diversification.

The region has both the ambition and the demographic advantage of a young, tech-savvy population – presenting a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform sporting experiences using technology.

These efforts provide the perfect backdrop for digital transformation.

Transforming the fan experience beyond stadium walls

Innovation is not only about infrastructure; it’s about how people experience the sport.

In the past, a fan’s journey started at the ticket counter and ended with the final whistle. Today, fans want seamless access to tickets, smart transport to the venue, personalized content on the game and favourite players’ stats, merchandise or food pre-orders available at the seating.

It is becoming clear that in the future, technology is not just part of the sports landscape, it is the sports landscape. For fans unable to attend in person, immersive digital platforms powered by AR/VR and social co-viewing tools will extend the stadium atmosphere into homes, cafes, and fan zones across the world.

By embedding AI, IoT, and edge computing into the fan experience, the industry is creating a more connected, personalised, and immersive environment.

This is the new reality sportstech facilitates. A deep passion for sports and demand for unmatched experiences is driving the Middle East to embrace advanced connectivity and smart city integration. The result: seamless, end-to-end fan journeys.

Youth, digital-first and demanding more

The Middle East is home to one of the youngest populations in the world. It is witnessing fans increasingly engaging with sports through streaming platforms, social media, and interactive apps. They demand more than just viewing – they want to be a part of it. Data-driven gamification, loyalty rewards, and post-match content that continues the conversation long after the final whistle will be key to sustaining this devotion.

Real-time engagements will strengthen the emotional connect between fans, sports, and players, shifting the perception of fandom in ways distinct to the region’s digital-first youth.

This youth-driven demand will change the region’s sporting future — one where digital platforms and sustainability go hand in hand

Read: From pit lane to mainframe: Globant’s Federico Pienovi on how AI Is redefining F1

A vision for the future

The future of every sporting event will not just be the game, but the digital experience. With right infrastructure, the next decade could see Middle Eastern cities become the global epicentres for sportstech innovation. From AI-driven analytics on player performance to immersive viewing experiences that bring fans closer to the action, the possibilities are endless.

Sporting events have its impact on the environmental too. Therefore, sustainability is equally gaining prominence on the global sporting agenda. Technology has a decisive role to play here. Smart stadium systems can optimise energy consumption, manage water usage, and reduce waste in real time. AI-powered logistics can minimise traffic congestion and emissions.

In the Middle East where countries are committing to ambitious net-zero targets — integrating sustainability into sporting infrastructure from the outset offers both beneficial and competitive advantages. This approach ensures that world-class events are not only spectacular but also responsible, setting the stage for green sportstech leadership.

Collaboration for a new era of sportstech

As we move forward, building a digital sports ecosystem will be crucial in realising the full potential of sportstech in the region. Governments are already investing heavily in infrastructure, and it is essential that these efforts be complemented by the expertise and innovation.

Middle East’s sporting ambitions are clear, and its bold investments translate these into action, creating a platform to showcase innovation and accelerate collaboration. By marrying sporting passion with cutting-edge technology, the region has the potential to redefine global sports experiences for the next decade.

Embracing technology goes beyond entertainment, creating a sustainable, holistic ecosystem that enhance fan experiences, player development, venue sustainability, and community engagement.

By collaborating with leagues, federations, and city authorities, the Middle East is emerging as a hub for sportstech innovation and regional economic growth.

This is more than an opportunity; it is the region’s defining play on the global stage. The world is watching, and the future of sports starts here.

The writer is the SVP and regional head, NTT DATA MEA

From real-time payments and super wallets to open finance and hyper-personalisation, here’s how financial technology is evolving in the UAE and beyond — turning digital wallets into engines of inclusion, speed, and trust.

Financial applications are no longer just tools; they are transforming the very fabric of how individuals and businesses experience and manage their money. What once began as simple digital wallets has evolved into platforms that foster financial inclusion, enable seamless daily transactions, and connect economies across borders.

In observing the shifting landscape, I see six powerful trends emerging both in the UAE and around the world, trends that are not only redefining mobile money but also shaping the future of financial empowerment.

1. Real time as the new baseline

Speed is no longer a premium feature. It is an expectation. In 2023, real time payments accounted for about 19 per cent of all electronic transactions worldwide and are projected to reach more than 27 per cent by 2028. In the UAE, this expectation is magnified by a population deeply engaged in internet-driven lifestyles and accustomed to digital convenience.

However, this shift represents more than convenience alone. It improves cash flow for small businesses, reduces friction in commerce, and raises user trust when funds arrive within seconds.

2. The rise of all-in-one super wallets

Financial apps are moving beyond single-purpose wallets to become comprehensive platforms. From bill payments and peer-to-peer transfers to international transfers and merchant acceptance, the trend is towards consolidation of services in a single application.

In markets like the UAE, where consumers interact daily with multiple service providers, this integration reduces friction and simplifies financial management.

Super wallets are evolving into everyday financial hubs that hold value, facilitate payments, and connect seamlessly with both local and international beneficiaries.

3. Financial inclusion through mobile money

Globally, over 1.4 billion adults still remain outside the formal banking system. Mobile money continues to bridge this gap by offering accessible, account-like services through smartphones. The UAE, with its diverse population of residents and migrant workers, reflects this global need for safe, affordable, and reliable digital access to funds, esp. for the unbanked and underserved segments. For instance, International Money Transfers is a lifeline for many households, and financial apps that provide secure cross-border transfers with transparent pricing play a crucial role in enabling inclusion.

4.Open finance takes hold in the UAE

The UAE is moving decisively toward secure data portability. The Central Bank’s Open Finance Regulation and trust framework creates the conditions for licensed players to share customer-permissioned data through standardised APIs. For consumers, this means better comparisons, more tailored offers, and easier switching.

For innovators, it reduces integration costs and accelerates new product development. Responsible data sharing, with clear guardrails, is emerging as the cornerstone of future financial design.

5.Hyper-personalisation as the new differentiator

We are entering an era of hyper-personalisation in financial services, where consumers increasingly expect more than standardised offerings. They want tools that recognise their individual patterns, goals, and preferences. Financial apps that provide contextual alerts, tailored recommendations, and meaningful insights elevate themselves from transactional utilities to trusted financial companions.

In the UAE, where customers are digitally savvy and accustomed to seamless experiences in other sectors such as retail and travel, the same expectation now applies to finance. The ability to deliver relevant, personalised interactions will be a defining measure of customer loyalty and long-term engagement.

6. Cross-border flows go digital and mainstream

The UAE’s economy is uniquely global, built on a workforce and families connected across borders. Officially recorded international transfers to low- and middle-income countries reached about $685bn in 2024, growing faster than expected. Digital rails and mobile money solutions are steadily replacing cash counters and paper forms.

The most trusted solutions are those that combine transparent FX pricing, instant tracking, and compliance by design, while speaking the languages and serving the corridors that matter most to residents.

Looking forward

The future of financial apps will be defined by speed, security, and inclusiveness. Mobile money is no longer peripheral; it is central to how households manage daily expenses, how businesses collect payments, and how communities remain connected across borders.

The UAE is uniquely positioned to be a global leader in this transformation, supported by its regulatory foresight, digital readiness, and dynamic population.

For financial technology providers, the responsibility is clear. They must deliver solutions that are instant, intuitive, and trusted. For customers, the benefit is equally clear. They gain greater control, transparency, and participation in an increasingly digital economy.

The six trends outlined above are not distant projections. They are unfolding now. The next phase belongs to those who can translate them into practical, everyday value for the people who matter most, the users.