As Hogg & Swan continues to grow, so does the need to network with parts suppliers, vehicle sources, and like-minded business owners in the classic Land Cruiser industry. Recently, I—Eddie, the owner of Hogg & Swan—embarked on a journey to the United Arab Emirates. It wasn’t just a trip to Dubai; it took me across the UAE, from bustling cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi to smaller inland towns, all in search of Land Cruisers, parts suppliers, and fellow enthusiasts.

Connecting with Passionate People

One of the greatest perks of being in the automotive industry is the chance to meet people who are driven by passion, not just business. Whether it’s a restoration shop or a private collector, the love for vehicles shines through. On this trip, I had the opportunity to visit a range of places—from high-end workshops with impressive resources to humble backyard garages that have been around since before Dubai became the city it is today.

It was inspiring to meet some of the best painters, body specialists, customisers, and collectors in the region. Many of the business owners I encountered were Emirati nationals who don’t rely on their businesses for income; they do it purely out of passion for the craft. That level of dedication is something you feel instantly when talking to them, and it’s a reminder of how deep the Land Cruiser’s roots run in the Middle Eastern market.

The Land Cruiser’s Place in the Middle East

If you’re reading this, you probably already know how iconic the Land Cruiser is in the Middle East. It dominates the market, especially in off-road and desert environments. Interestingly, the old Toyota office building in downtown Dubai was one of the first buildings in the city, and it’s still standing—a testament to how far back the Land Cruiser’s presence goes in the region.

Beyond Land Cruisers: Exploring the UAE's Automotive Scene

Of course, no trip would be complete without checking out the luxury and exotic car dealerships that Dubai is known for. I saw cars I didn’t even know existed! It was also exciting to visit classic car dealerships focused on European models and a top-notch workshop that’s renowned for JDM performance cars like Skylines, Silvias, AE86s, and other legendary drift cars.

This trip wasn’t just about Land Cruisers, it was about soaking in the full spectrum of car culture in the UAE. From classic European rides to cutting-edge supercars, there’s something for every type of enthusiast.

The Summer Heat and the Road Ahead

Getting around in the sweltering summer heat was made a little easier with a rented 2024 Golf GTI, which made the journeys between workshops a lot more comfortable with the AC blasting. While I did have the chance to drive several Land Cruisers, the lack of air conditioning in some of the older models meant that my time behind the wheel didn’t last long in that heat. It made me appreciate the modern comforts of my Golf GTI even more.

Unlike the restored Land Cruisers we offer at Hogg & Swan, many of the ones I drove didn’t have updated AC systems, which was a bit of a challenge in the desert heat. But that didn’t take away from the fun of driving these iconic vehicles.

Looking Forward to More Adventures

My 10-day trip to the UAE was a whirlwind of meetings, cars, and connections. I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet so many talented and passionate people, and I’m excited about the stronger relationships we’ve built with those in the automotive industry across the globe.

I’m looking forward to many more adventures as Hogg & Swan continues to expand. Whether it’s sourcing parts, restoring Land Cruisers, or just sharing a love for classic cars, we’re always on the move—literally and figuratively.

Stay tuned for more stories from the road!

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