Abu Dhabi Set to Host Freelander's Historic UAE Launch This September

Freelander Confirms UAE Launch With Major Abu Dhabi Debut This September

[Abu Dhabi Becomes the Gateway for Freelander's UAE Debut]

Key Highlights

• Freelander confirms the UAE as its first international market.
• Official global launch event will take place in Abu Dhabi in September 2026.
• Brand is jointly developed by Jaguar Land Rover and Chery Automobile.
• Super Intelligent Valet Parking system is engineered for UAE's high-temperature conditions.
• Freelander debuted globally in April 2026 with the Concept 97 premium electric SUV.
• Huawei, CATL and Qualcomm are among the company's key technology partners.

Freelander Chooses UAE for Its First Overseas Expansion

The Freelander UAE launch has been officially confirmed, making the Emirates the first international destination for the newly established premium electric mobility brand developed by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and China's Chery Automobile. The company will formally introduce the brand to international audiences during a launch event scheduled for September 2026 in Abu Dhabi.

The announcement was made during the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom at an industry exchange hosted by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) at The Orangery. The decision highlights the UAE's growing influence as a regional hub for next-generation mobility and electric vehicle innovation.

Why UAE Was Selected for Freelander's Global Expansion

Freelander says its international strategy begins with the UAE because of the country's strategic geographic position, business-friendly environment, and increasing demand for intelligent mobility solutions.

The company also pointed to the UAE's strong commitment to accelerating new-energy vehicle adoption and creating an ecosystem that supports advanced automotive technologies. These factors made the country an ideal location to introduce the brand outside China.

Commenting on the milestone, Freelander International CEO Lucia Mao said the company's international expansion "goes beyond entering a new market... it is about making a long-term commitment," adding that the UAE is "the starting point of Freelander's global expansion."

Super Intelligent Valet Parking Headlines the Technology Showcase

One of the biggest highlights of the upcoming launch is Freelander's Super Intelligent Valet Parking system, which is scheduled to make its global debut in 2026.

The advanced automated parking technology has been specifically adapted to operate reliably in extreme high-temperature environments such as those experienced across the UAE. The feature reflects Freelander's strategy of tailoring intelligent vehicle technologies for regional operating conditions rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.

About Freelander: A New Premium Brand Backed by JLR and Chery

Freelander combines the premium heritage of Jaguar Land Rover with Chery Automobile's expertise in electric vehicle technology, manufacturing and global supply chains.

Under the partnership, JLR leads vehicle design and premium brand development, while Chery provides EV platforms, engineering capabilities and production expertise.

Although the Freelander name carries nearly three decades of automotive heritage, it has now been relaunched as an independent global premium mobility brand.

The company's first concept vehicle, Concept 97, debuted in April 2026 as a compact premium electric SUV built on an all-new proprietary architecture.

Freelander is also collaborating with leading technology companies including Huawei, CATL and Qualcomm to support its future intelligent vehicle ecosystem.

Global Expansion Roadmap and What's Next

Freelander currently employs more than 5,000 people across five strategic global hubs covering design, research and development, manufacturing and worldwide operations.

In China, the company plans to establish a 100-store service network across 60 cities during 2026, strengthening its domestic foundation before accelerating international growth.

With Abu Dhabi serving as its first overseas launch destination, Freelander is positioning the UAE as the gateway for broader expansion into global markets while reinforcing its long-term commitment to premium electric mobility.