Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has seen its 2008 sales in the Middle East increase by 48 per cent. This result exceeds the record 40 per cent growth achieved in 2007. Four Middle East dealers are amongst the global top ten dealerships. Abu Dhabi and Dubai achieved the highest results in the world, taking first and second place respectively, with Saudi-Arabia and Kuwait also joining the top ten for the first time.

“This is a tremendous result and particularly strong considering the challenging economic environment that all manufacturers faced in the second half of 2008,” said Peter Schoppmann, Regional Director Middle East of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. He continued, “It is very rewarding to see that Rolls-Royce is once again confirmed as the most desirable brand in the super luxury market.”

There was strong demand for all Phantom models, with the four door versions (Phantom and Phantom Extended Wheelbase) in high demand, accounting for the lions share. The Phantom Drophead Coupé, launched in 2007, and the most driver-orientated member of the Phantom family, the new Phantom Coupé, also substantially contributed to the total.

Looking ahead, preparations are now fully underway to ready the company for the unveil of a brand new model series, currently named RR4 and complementing the Phantom family, due later this year.

Largest markets in the world for Rolls-Royce in 2008:

1. USA

2. UK

3. United Arab Emirates

4. China

5. Russia

Rolls-Royce regions by sales in 2008:

1. Americas

2. Europe and South Africa

3. Middle East

4. APAC

Rolls-Royce top dealers in the world in 2008:

1. Abu Dhabi

2. Dubai

3. Beijing

3. London

5. Beverly Hills