Skoda celebrates fresh entry into the Saudi Arabian market

As they say, better late than never. Skoda has announced that it is entering Saudi Arabia for the first time in history. In doing so, it will gain a presence in the largest car market within the Middle East, thus helping to expand its footprint within the region.

The Czech brand will work with the Volkswagen Group’s sales organisation for the Middle East and local partner, SAMACO Motors, which has operated int the automotive market since 1978. It has also already laid out plans to provide a fully digital customer experience at its soon-to-be-opened showrooms.

The Czech brand is teaming up with established local distributor SAMACO Motors, as it enters Saudi Arabia 

Two of these, covering more than 1,200 square metres, will open in Jeddah and Al Khobar by year-end, before a flagship outlet in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, follows in 2026. G

iven the oil-rich nature of the Middle East, it should perhaps come as no surprise that Skoda is intending to field only its ICE models for the time being. These include the compact likes of the Kushaq, Slavia, Karoq and Octavia, the mid-sized likes of the Kodiaq, as well as its flagship Superb and Superb Combi. It also intends to primarily target younger buyers and families in Saudi Arabia's larger cities. 

Skoda's has announced a full ICE lineup for Saudi Arabia, ranging from compact and entry-level models like the Slavia (pictured) to its flagship Superb and Superb Combi

Skoda states that the move underscores its commitment to advancing its international footprint, and will leverage on the potential for growth within Saudi Arabia. The country, which is located in the middle of the Middle East, is estimated to see annual car sales reach one million vehicles by 2030.

The latest news also follows intensifying efforts by Skoda to establish itself within the Middle East in recent times.

 2025 alone has seen the Czech brand also enter the Omani market for the first time, resume its operations in Qatar, and also open two new state-of-the-art showrooms in the United Arab Emirates.