Middle East and Africa Two Wheelers Market Outlook, 2030

The two-wheeler industry in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) represents a unique blend of functional necessity and emerging modern mobility trends. While often overshadowed by the massive markets of Asia or the electric mobility surge in Europe, the MEA region holds substantial potential for growth, especially as urbanization intensifies, public transport remains underdeveloped in many areas, and a large portion of the population seeks affordable and practical mobility solutions. In many African nations and parts of the Middle East, motorcycles and scooters are not just transportation tools they are essential instruments of daily economic activity, personal mobility, and last-mile logistics.

This practical relevance, combined with shifting consumer behavior, infrastructural development, and gradual electrification, positions the two-wheeler industry in MEA as a dynamic sector with both challenges and untapped promise. Electrification is beginning to emerge as a transformative force in parts of the MEA two-wheeler market, although it is still in the early stages.

Africa’s increasing access to mobile technologies and digital platforms has opened the door for new business models such as e-mobility-as-a-service. Startups like Ampersand in Rwanda and Ecobodaa in Kenya are introducing electric motorcycles specifically designed for African roads, with swappable battery solutions and solar-powered charging stations.

These innovations aim to address multiple pain points reducing operating costs for riders, lowering emissions, and offering more sustainable transport options in energy-constrained environments. Similarly, in the Middle East, government initiatives focused on sustainability, such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 or the UAE’s Green Mobility targets, are starting to encourage the adoption of electric two-wheelers, particularly for delivery and courier services. Yet, despite growing interest, key barriers such as high upfront costs, lack of charging infrastructure, and limited consumer awareness continue to slow the widespread adoption of electric models.

According to the research report “Middle East & Africa Two-wheeler Market Outlook, 2030” the market is projected to reach 7.24 Billion by 2030.The industry also contends with several structural and regulatory challenges. In many African nations, the two-wheeler sector remains largely informal, with minimal government oversight in terms of licensing, insurance, and vehicle standards. This informality limits the ability of governments to enforce safety norms and environmental regulations. Helmet use remains inconsistent, and road traffic injuries involving motorcycles are alarmingly common.

Additionally, high import duties on vehicles and spare parts can inflate the costs of ownership, making even basic maintenance a financial burden for many riders. In contrast, Middle Eastern countries have more formal regulatory frameworks, but the two-wheeler market is constrained by cultural perceptions, climate challenges, and infrastructure that favors cars. That said, increasing urban congestion and changing consumer habits, especially among younger populations and migrant workers, are slowly improving the market’s receptivity to two-wheelers. From a commercial perspective, Asian manufacturers particularly from India, China, and Japan play a dominant role in the MEA two-wheeler landscape.

Brands like Bajaj, TVS, Hero MotoCorp, and Honda are widely distributed across the region, favored for their cost-effectiveness, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Many of these companies have established assembly plants or local partnerships in African nations, helping to reduce costs, improve availability, and create employment. Chinese electric two-wheeler manufacturers are also making inroads, leveraging affordability and aggressive pricing strategies to compete in emerging markets. Meanwhile, a budding aftermarket for spare parts, repairs, and accessories supports a vibrant informal economy around motorcycle maintenance and customization.

Market Drivers

• Last-Mile Delivery and Urban Logistics Boom: The rapid growth of e-commerce, food delivery, and ride-hailing platforms like Talabat, Careem, and Jumia is driving significant demand for two-wheelers across both the Middle East and Africa. Motorcycles are the preferred choice for navigating congested cities and ensuring fast, low-cost deliveries.
• Low-Cost Mobility for Informal and Rural Economies: In many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, two-wheelers serve as critical transportation tools for rural populations and informal workers, offering a reliable and affordable means to access markets, healthcare, and jobs especially in areas where public transport is minimal or non-existent.

Market Challenges

• High Accident Rates and Limited Safety Enforcement: Many MEA countries face poor road infrastructure, minimal rider training, and weak enforcement of helmet and traffic laws, resulting in high rates of motorcycle-related injuries and deaths. This not only threatens public health but also affects the industry's long-term perception.
• Import Dependency and Cost Barriers: The majority of two-wheelers and parts in MEA are imported, often from Asia. High tariffs, volatile exchange rates, and weak local manufacturing make ownership and maintenance costly, especially for low-income users.

Market Trends

• Rise of Electric Motorcycles and Local E-Mobility Startups: Early but promising signs of electric two-wheeler adoption are emerging, especially in Kenya, Rwanda, Egypt, and the UAE. Startups like Ampersand and Ecobodaa are offering e-bikes with battery-swapping, while Middle Eastern governments are introducing green mobility incentives.
• Expansion of Microfinance and Pay-As-You-Go Models: To increase affordability, companies and NGOs are partnering with fintechs to offer microloans, pay-as-you-go, and lease-to-own models for two-wheelers. These innovations are helping more individuals, especially in Africa, to access bikes for personal use or income generation.

Motorcycles are leading the Middle East & Africa two-wheeler market due to their affordability, adaptability to varied terrains, and vital role in last-mile connectivity and informal transport systems.

In the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region, motorcycles dominate the two-wheeler market because they offer an ideal blend of low cost, fuel efficiency, and adaptability, especially in areas where infrastructure is limited or underdeveloped. Many parts of sub-Saharan Africa and rural Middle Eastern regions lack comprehensive public transport networks, making motorcycles a crucial mobility solution for daily commuting, goods delivery, and access to healthcare or education. Their ability to navigate rough roads, narrow alleys, and congested city centers gives them a distinct advantage over larger vehicles.

Furthermore, the cost of owning and maintaining a motorcycle is significantly lower than that of cars, which is critical in price-sensitive economies with high youth unemployment and informal labor markets. Motorcycles are also increasingly used in growing gig economy sectors such as motorbike taxis (boda-bodas, okadas, etc.) and delivery services, creating jobs and meeting the rising demand for last-mile logistics. In regions like East Africa and parts of West Africa, motorcycles are not just a means of transportation they are economic lifelines. Moreover, government-backed micro-financing programs and mobile-based payment solutions are making motorcycles more accessible, especially to first-time buyers.

The < 150 CC segment leads the Middle East & Africa two-wheeler market because of its affordability, fuel efficiency, and suitability for commercial and personal use in both urban and rural areas.

In the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region, two-wheelers with engine capacities below 150 CC dominate the market as they cater effectively to the economic and practical needs of a broad consumer base. These models are typically more affordable to purchase, maintain, and operate, making them ideal for populations with limited disposable income and for informal sector workers who rely on personal mobility to earn a living. The < 150 CC motorcycles are especially well-suited for short-distance commuting and delivery services, which are growing rapidly due to urbanization and the expansion of e-commerce and food delivery platforms.

Additionally, in many rural and semi-urban areas across Africa and parts of the Middle East, these bikes serve as essential tools for transportation across unpaved roads and narrow routes where public transport is either unavailable or unreliable. The lightweight design and simpler mechanical structure of these motorcycles also appeal to riders in remote regions, where repair infrastructure is minimal.

Moreover, many governments and microfinance institutions support the adoption of small-displacement motorcycles through financing schemes aimed at improving livelihood opportunities, further encouraging growth in this segment. This widespread applicability and economic accessibility make < 150 CC two-wheelers the most popular and practical choice across diverse use cases in the MEA region.

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) two-wheelers lead the Middle East & Africa market due to their affordability, wide availability, fuel accessibility, and the lack of charging infrastructure for electric alternatives.

In the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region, ICE-powered two-wheelers continue to dominate the market because they align closely with the existing infrastructure, consumer preferences, and economic conditions. ICE models are generally more affordable upfront compared to electric vehicles, which is a critical factor in cost-sensitive economies where a large portion of the population relies on two-wheelers for daily transport and livelihood. Additionally, petrol and diesel are widely available and often subsidized in parts of the Middle East, making ICE vehicles not only more practical but also more economical in the short term.

In rural and underserved urban areas across Africa, electric vehicle infrastructure such as charging stations is extremely limited or nonexistent, making it nearly impossible for EVs to compete in functionality and reliability. Moreover, ICE vehicles are perceived as more durable and easier to repair, with a broader network of local mechanics familiar with their operation, unlike EVs which often require specialized servicing. Many governments in the region have not yet introduced strong incentives or regulatory mandates to encourage electric adoption, which further cements ICE's leadership.

Saudi Arabia is leading in the Middle East & Africa two-wheeler market due to its expanding delivery and logistics sector, rising youth interest in recreational motorcycling, and proactive government initiatives supporting mobility diversification.

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leading market for two-wheelers in the Middle East & Africa region primarily due to a combination of economic diversification, changing consumer behavior, and evolving urban mobility needs. One of the most significant contributors is the rapid growth of the delivery and logistics sector, driven by the explosion of e-commerce and food delivery services in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Two-wheelers, being more agile and cost-effective, are increasingly preferred for last-mile deliveries, particularly in congested urban environments.

Additionally, there has been a notable rise in recreational motorcycling culture, especially among the younger population, who view motorcycles as a lifestyle product for leisure and adventure. This trend is supported by an increase in biking clubs, off-road biking events, and local demand for mid to high-end motorcycles. The Saudi government's Vision 2030 plan also plays a vital role, as it aims to diversify the economy and modernize transportation through investments in alternative mobility solutions, including two-wheelers for both personal and commercial use.

Relaxation of cultural norms, such as lifting the driving ban on women, has also expanded the potential rider base. Furthermore, strong purchasing power, well-developed road infrastructure, and a growing number of authorized dealerships and service centers enhance the overall ecosystem, making Saudi Arabia a hub for two-wheeler demand and sales in the broader MEA region.

Considered in this report

• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report

• Two Wheelers Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type

• Motorcycle
• Scooters
• Electric Two-Wheeler
• Mopeds

By Engine Capacity

• < 150 CC
• 151 -400 CC
• 401- 800CC
• > 801 CC

By Price

• ICE
• Electric

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to this industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.