Mercedes-Benz G-Class in the UAE: An Icon Built for Power, Prestige, and the Desert
The sight of a boxy silhouette navigating the streets of Downtown Dubai or racing along the vast dunes of the Empty Quarter is instantly recognizable. Known to the Germans as the Geländewagen, or cross-country vehicle, this is the iconic Mercedes G-Class, fondly known as the G-Wagon.
The origins of the G-Class date back to the early 1970s, when Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran and a significant shareholder in Mercedes-Benz at the time, played a key role in commissioning a robust military off-road vehicle that could also appeal to civilian drivers. This led to a collaboration with Austrian manufacturer Steyr-Daimler-Puch, with extensive prototype testing carried out across extreme environments, from desert conditions to sub-zero climates.
In 1979, the first production models officially debuted as the Geländewagen. While these early versions were more basic than the luxury models we see today, they featured the same ladder-frame chassis and triple-locking differentials that define its performance.
Over the decades, the G-Class has proven itself in some of the world's toughest motorsport events, including the Paris-Dakar Rally, and has served reliably in military and emergency services across the globe. Along the way, it also secured its place in popular culture.
By the 1990s, the G-Class had transformed from a purely functional off-roader into a luxury icon that does not compromise on capability. This evolution eventually led to the high-performance AMG variants that have captured the imagination of enthusiasts throughout the UAE and around the world.
The iconic design of the G-Class has remained largely unchanged for over forty years, which is a remarkable testament to its timeless appeal. The G-Class is popular in the local luxury SUV market and stands apart from other luxury SUVs in the UAE by bridging the gap between extreme off-road capability and premium comfort.
The G-Wagon’s popularity also stems from a mechanical design especially suited to the UAE landscape. While many luxury competitors utilize car-based frames, the G-Class retains a heavy-duty ladder-frame chassis and three independent locking differentials, providing the structural rigidity and traction needed to drive over the soft, shifting sands of the Liwa Desert or the sharp, rocky inclines of the Hajar Mountains. With this engineering excellence and impressive ground clearance working together, the Mercedes G-Class in the UAE offers something rare: genuine off-road capability that complements, rather than compromises, its iconic status.
Choosing the right G-Class variant depends on your preferences and performance requirements.
The G 500 serves as an entry point for those who desire the classic G-Wagon aesthetic with a focus on power. In the latest models, the G 500 has transitioned to a potent 3.0-liter inline-six engine equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup provides smooth, lag-free acceleration and a significant boost in torque, making it ideal for the stop-and-go traffic we are familiar with in Dubai. This variant often appeals to individuals who prioritize a comfortable ride and an understated presence without sacrificing the prestige associated with the brand.
Enthusiasts of the Mercedes G-Wagon in Dubai gravitate toward the G 63 AMG. This model remains the pinnacle of performance, retaining its handcrafted 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, now also enhanced with mild-hybrid technology for more explosive power delivery. It features the signature Panamericana grille and side-exit exhausts that produce a distinctive roar instantly recognizable in the city’s most exclusive valet circles. For the driver who wants the absolute best in mechanical engineering, 577 horsepower, and aggressive styling, the AMG variant is the right choice for you.
The G 63 AMG is also available in multiple specification variants. These include factory option models such as the AMG Night Package II, which offers high-gloss or matte black exterior accents, as well as limited-production variants like the G 63 AMG 4×4², designed for extreme off-road capability.
While both share the same iconic G-Class frame, each variant offers a distinct driving experience tailored to different driver preferences:
Suspension & brakes: G 63 features enhanced suspension tuning and larger braking systems.
Interior finishes: G 63 offers bespoke interior details for a more luxurious feel.
Ride quality: G 500 delivers a smoother, more comfortable ride ideal for daily driving.
Performance focus: G 63 is tuned for high-speed dynamics and a more visceral road connection.
The boxy design of the G-Class announces itself instantly. Its upright windshield, external door hinges, and rear-mounted spare wheel are unmistakable signatures that have remained largely unchanged for decades. This is a testament to a design philosophy that prioritizes function and character over fleeting trends.
This purposeful shape delivers more than visual impact. The elevated seating position and expansive glass area provide drivers with exceptional visibility and a commanding view of the road ahead. Combined with its high ground clearance and broad stance, the G-Class offers a reassuring sense of control. Even in its most refined variants, the signature three differential locks, a feature rare among luxury SUVs, reinforce its genuine off-road capability.
Step inside, and the rugged exterior gives way to a sanctuary of comfort made with high-end materials. This includes Nappa leather upholstery, brushed aluminum or open‑pore wood trim, and optional carbon‑fiber accents chosen for aesthetic appeal and durability in diverse climates.
Every model features the MBUX (Mercedes‑Benz User Experience) infotainment system, with dual high‑resolution 12.3‑inch displays serving as the digital instrument cluster and central media screen. This system supports intuitive touch, voice control (“Hey Mercedes”), and seamless smartphone integration via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Luxury touches extend to advanced comfort features such as heated and ventilated seats with multi‑contour support, ambient lighting, and temperature‑controlled cupholders. Burmester 3D surround sound provides an immersive audio experience which might come in useful for turning long drives or slow-moving traffic into moments you might actually enjoy!
Despite its rugged history, recent generations significantly enhance rear‑seat comfort and space, making the G‑Class a capable choice for chauffeured travel or long journeys in total luxury.
The G-Class is engineered to handle the unique climate and terrain of the Middle East. The engine power ensures that merging onto high-speed motorways is smooth, with acceleration that defies the size of the vehicle.
City Driving: Despite its dimensions, the light steering at low speeds makes navigating tight urban spaces manageable.
Highway Performance: The vehicle feels planted and stable even at the 140 km/h limits found on major inter-city routes.
Handling: Modern suspension systems have greatly reduced body roll, ensuring that the ride remains composed through corners.
Prices for the G-Class in Dubai vary based on the model, features, choice of dealership, and whether it is a brand-new or pre-owned vehicle. Keeping this in mind, here are some approximate price ranges buyers can expect:
Base G‑Class (e.g., G 500) – New models often start from around AED 578,000+ on pricing platforms for base variants before options are added. Depending on trim and optional features, the final price can also range from AED 750,000 to AED 900,000 or more.
AMG‑Spec High‑Performance Models (e.g., AMG G 63) – New AMG G 63 units generally start from around AED 1,000,000 and can exceed AED 1.2 million when fully loaded with premium options.
Older & High‑Mileage (early models):
Older G‑Class models (pre‑2010 to early 2010s) are sometimes listed from roughly AED 100,000–AED 200,000 on classifieds, particularly for high‑mileage models.
Mid‑2010s to early‑2020s:
Mid‑age used G‑Class examples frequently range from about AED 250,000–AED 500,000+ depending on model year, mileage, and condition.
Recent Pre‑Owned (late models / AMG versions):
Recent pre‑owned AMG G 63s and low‑mileage newer units often fall in the AED 600,000–AED 900,000+ range, with some listings even above this depending on the specifications and age.
If you enjoy learning about luxury SUVs like the G-Class, you might also be interested in our guide to the Bentley in the UAE, covering pricing, variants, and ownership insights.
Why Buy Your G-Class from The Elite Cars?
For those looking to buy a G‑Class in the UAE, The Elite Cars is a premier destination for luxury automotive enthusiasts. Every vehicle undergoes a verified inspection, with our expert technicians scrutinizing mechanical and aesthetic detail to ensure the highest standards of quality.
Our hand-picked selection of G‑Class vehicles delivers exceptional performance, luxury, and the confidence that comes with a trusted purchase. Beyond the sale, our maintenance center helps keep your G‑Wagon in optimal condition, while our partnerships with leading banks provide flexible financial options tailored to you.
We invite you to visit our showrooms to experience the G‑Class firsthand, and reach out to our team for any further information.
The G-Class combines decades of heritage with exceptional performance and a distinctive design that symbolizes success. What makes it ideal for vehicle owners in the UAE specifically is its unique ability to balance off-road capability with luxury.
The G 500 provides a smooth, comfortable ride with a powerful engine suitable for everyday driving. The G63 AM on the other hand is a performance-focused variant with a handcrafted V8 engine, AMG-tuned suspension, enhanced brakes, and bespoke interior touches. Both share the iconic G-Class design, but the AMG model is tuned for speed, handling, and a more aggressive driving experience.
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