I. Exhibition Overview
METAS 2026 was held at the Sharjah Exhibition Centre from August 3 to 5, 2026. As a regional event preceding Automechanika Dubai 2026, the exhibition gathered 51 exhibitors and over 19,000 professional buyers. The event provided a forum for discussing regional industry trends and market conditions.
II. Market Context and Customer Engagement
Sharjah serves as a trade hub between Asia and Africa. Regional tire consumption remains stable: Saudi Arabia accounts for approximately 16 million units annually, and together with the UAE, represents 86% of regional imports. The vehicle population exceeds 200 million, with a significant share of older models sustaining aftermarket replacement demand. Forlander has prioritised the Middle East and African markets, using exhibitions such as this dubai tyre expo to engage local partners and evaluate replacement product demand.
During the exhibition, Forlander held discussions with over 100 buyers from the Middle East, Africa, and other regions. Interest centred on TBR and PCR products, with some OTR inquiries. These conversations provided feedback on Forlander’s regional sales, channel relationships, and expansion plans. As a tyre manufacturer, Forlander presented its product portfolio and application cases from other markets.
Key products presented included 315/80R22.5 with FR969 and FR966 truck tire patterns, and 385/65R22.5 with FR969 and FR166 patterns. The 325/95R24 SPOWER 316 & FR818 truck tire also drew inquiries. Discussions confirmed regional preference for durable, high-mileage, and heavy-load tyres, informing Forlander’s future product positioning.
III. Product Portfolio
Forlander displayed its full range at Sharjah, including Passenger Car, TBR, OTR, and Agricultural tyres. The display demonstrated the company’s manufacturing scope across segments.
Middle Eastern and African markets require tyres suited to high temperatures, long-haul operations, heavy loads, and variable road surfaces. Forlander has directed R&D toward these parameters, emphasising durability and thermal stability.
IV. TBR Product Highlights
Forlander featured several TBR models: 315/80R22.5 FR969, 315/80R22.5 FR966, and 385/65R22.5 FR969. These attracted buyer attention for load capacity and performance consistency. As a supplier of commercial truck tire solutions, Forlander positioned these models for regional transport operations.
FR969 (315/80R22.5 & 385/65R22.5) – Designed for long-haul and heavy-duty use. The carcass structure supports load-bearing and stability; the tread design improves wear resistance through even ground contact pressure. The shoulder construction reduces heat accumulation during extended operation, relevant for high-temperature conditions.
FR966 (315/80R22.5) – Developed for medium- to long-distance transport. The tread pattern provides grip and handling, while reduced rolling resistance supports fuel efficiency and cost control.
V. Customer Feedback
Discussions with distributors, logistics operators, and technical professionals from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Africa provided input on local operating conditions and product expectations. Several visitors inquired about Forlander’s participation in upcoming Tire Expo 2026 events, indicating ongoing market interest.
The exhibition confirmed that heat resistance, dust tolerance, and heavy-load performance remain priorities for Middle Eastern end-users. Forlander will incorporate this feedback into product development and testing.
VI. Post-Exhibition Outlook
The Sharjah exhibition provided a basis for evaluating Forlander’s market positioning in the Gulf region. The company plans to continue regional trade event participation, with preparations underway for Automechanika Dubai 2026. Product updates—particularly in TBR and OTR categories—are being considered based on climate-specific data collected during this show.
Forlander will maintain its focus on regional partnerships and product adaptation. Feedback from this dubai tyre expo has been documented for internal review, and the company expects to present further developments at Tire Expo 2026 and subsequent industry gatherings.
