North 9 launches in Dubai to bring exclusive brands to GCC
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Dubai-based North 9 aims to introduce exclusive heritage, performance and bespoke automotive brands to collectors across the GCC, with its first partnerships to be announced ahead of a November launch event
Dubai-based North 9 officially launched on 22 October 2026 as a new UAE-born automotive house dedicated to bringing specialist and exclusive automotive brands to collectors and enthusiasts across the GCC. Founded by Danial Mausoof and founding partner Nael Afieh, North 9 aims to address what it identifies as a gap in the regional market, where several specialist automotive brands remain without official representation despite growing demand for heritage, collectible and bespoke vehicles. According to Credence Research, the UAE's classic car market is projected to reach approximately US$1.83 billion (AED 6.72 billion) by 2032, reflecting increasing demand for collectible automobiles
Heritage, performance and design
North 9 is built around three core pillars: Heritage, Performance and Design. The company plans to establish partnerships with heritage marques, specialist manufacturers, performance innovators and contemporary design-led automotive brands.
Its planned portfolio will also include companies specialising in the restoration and reimagining of iconic vehicles, bringing rare, handcrafted and highly bespoke creations to the GCC market.
Rather than following a conventional, volume-driven distribution model, North 9 intends to focus on carefully selected brands distinguished by their craftsmanship, exclusivity, design and individual character.
By combining local market expertise with international partnerships, the company aims to connect underrepresented specialist manufacturers with the GCC's established community of automotive collectors and enthusiasts.
Connecting specialist brands with GCC collectors
Danial Mausoof, Founder of North 9, highlighted the UAE's longstanding passion for automobiles and the opportunity to connect distinctive international brands with knowledgeable regional collectors.
He explained that North 9 was established to curate brands with character and purpose for customers who value engineering, heritage and individuality.
Nael Afieh, Founding Partner, emphasised that exceptional automobiles are defined by more than performance figures. He highlighted craftsmanship, emotional connection and the memories associated with owning and preserving distinctive vehicles as equally important aspects of the ownership experience.
The founders envision North 9 as a platform that introduces specialist automotive manufacturers to the GCC while helping them build lasting relationships with the region's collector community.
First automotive partnerships to be announced
North 9 will reveal its first partner brands over the coming weeks, ahead of its flagship launch event in Dubai in November 2026.
Through its expanding portfolio, the company aims to strengthen the GCC's position as a destination for rare, handcrafted and design-led automobiles. It also plans to create opportunities for specialist automotive brands to establish and grow their presence across the region.
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