Tesla’s Cybertruck Heads to UAE and Saudi: A Bold Move or a Last Resort?

Abu Dhabi : Tesla is bringing its polarizing Cybertruck to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, aiming to boost sales—but the move raises more questions than answers.

• Tesla will start Cybertruck deliveries in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar by late 2025.
• Global sales remain underwhelming, with under 50,000 units sold.
• Regulatory and design barriers block entry into Europe and China.
• Tesla may reposition the truck as a niche luxury vehicle in Gulf markets.

Cybertruck’s Global Gamble Begins in the Gulf

Tesla’s highly polarizing Cybertruck is heading for a new challenge—Saudi Arabia and the UAE. After disappointing sales in its home market and regulatory roadblocks abroad, Tesla will begin deliveries of the stainless steel electric truck to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar by late 2025. 

The move marks the vehicle’s first step outside North America, as Tesla aims to capture attention—and buyers—in high-income but small EV markets.

A Truck Without a Home

Since its launch in 2023, the Tesla Cybertruck has struggled. The futuristic design that once drew over a million reservations has not translated into actual sales. In the first three months of 2025, only 6,406 units were sold, and total deliveries remain under 50,000. These numbers are far below Elon Musk’s early target of 200,000 units per year.

“There's really no way to describe its sales record today as anything other than a severe disappointment,” said Glenn Mercer, head of GM Automotive.

Despite Tesla’s best efforts, China and Europe remain largely closed markets due to regulations and infrastructure needs. The Cybertruck’s wide body, weight, and sharp lines create issues on narrow European roads. One unit in the UK was even seized for not meeting local laws.

Why the Gulf, and Why Now?

Saudi Arabia and the UAE represent a rare combination: high-income buyers and growing interest in EVs. Still, they are oil-rich regions with limited EV infrastructure. Bringing a bulky electric pickup to a region with sparse chargers may seem odd, but Tesla could be betting on prestige appeal over practicality.

Industry experts believe Tesla may shift strategy, presenting the Cybertruck as a boutique luxury product rather than a mass-market vehicle. Mercer explained, “Given the high cost of adjusting the vehicle to each local market, I would imagine they would try to sell a very expensive, high-priced version of it as a niche or premium vehicle.”

Barriers the Cybertruck Faces Globally

• China: Strict pickup regulations; Musk himself admitted making it road-legal would be “very difficult.”
• Europe: Narrow roads and legal hurdles; the truck needs major changes to comply.
• Sales slump: Under 50,000 units sold, far below 1.5 million reservations.
• Production issues: Some goals dropped at the Austin factory.

High Hopes, Higher Risks

Tesla’s move into the Gulf could either revive the Cybertruck or confirm its status as a niche flop. Selling a high-tech electric pickup in oil nations with low EV demand may help the brand retain exclusivity, but it won’t likely reverse Tesla’s broader troubles. With limited markets left to tap, Tesla must now hope the Cybertruck’s bold look can shine under the desert sun.