MG Motor Middle East Sets a Regional First with RAKAN, The First Model to Carry an Arabic Name

• Born of the sands, named for the region, RAKAN marks a milestone in MG’s commitment to regional identity.

Dubai, UAE (28 January 2026) – MG Motor Middle East has marked a defining milestone in its regional journey with the all-new MG RAKAN, the first vehicle in the Middle East to carry an Arabic name as an official model designation - adopted not as a limited run or special edition, but as a permanent and integral part of the brand’s regional portfolio.

By placing Arabic language and identity at the heart of a globally produced vehicle, this moment represents a meaningful first for the automotive industry in the region and reflects MG’s evolving approach to regional relevance.

Derived from the Arabic word Rukn, meaning a pillar, a foundation, and a symbol of strength, RAKAN was carefully chosen to embody resilience, stability, and purpose. More than a naming decision, it reflects MG’s intent to create vehicles that connect culturally and authentically with the markets they are designed for. It goes beyond being just a badge and reinforces MG’s long-term commitment to regional identity, authenticity, and relevance.

As MG’s first truly capable and dedicated 4x4, RAKAN has been engineered to meet the region’s toughest demands — from demanding desert drives and rugged journeys to everyday versatility. Kuwait was selected as the first market to introduce RAKAN, reflecting the country’s strong off-road culture and long-standing affinity for adventure-focused vehicles. With off-roading embedded in everyday life, Kuwait represents a market where capability is expected rather than optional, making it a natural home for RAKAN. Its challenging landscape and extreme climate provided the ideal proving ground, laying the foundation for a wider regional rollout.

Jacky Xu, Managing Director of MG Motor Middle East, said: “RAKAN represents a proud and defining moment for MG in the Middle East. Choosing an Arabic name as an official model name — not as a special edition, but as a core part of our portfolio — was a deliberate decision and one we are incredibly proud of. From its name to its purpose, RAKAN reflects the strength, culture, and expectations of the region, and signals our long-term commitment to building vehicles that truly belong here.”

As MG Motor Middle East continues to strengthen its presence across the region, RAKAN represents an early expression of a broader direction - grounded in cultural relevance, regional pride, and a deeper connection with Middle Eastern audiences. The model will be rolled out progressively across the Middle East in the coming months, signalling a new dawn for MG Motor Middle East.