The full-size luxury SUV segment in the UAE is dominated by two German flagship models: the BMW X7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Both SUVs offer powerful engines, advanced technology, premium interiors, and strong road presence—making them top choices for luxury SUV buyers in the UAE. Here, selling price, performance, interiors, fuel consumption, and costs of ownership of an X7 over a GLS are compared in this BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS UAE comparison to find out which flagship SUV offers better value to the consumer in 2026. If you’re exploring BMW SUVs further, don’t miss our detailed BMW X5 UAE review, comparing its features and performance for 2027 buyers.
BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS 2026 UAE: Detailed Review & Buying Guide
Both competitors have a good argument if you are looking to buy the 7 seater luxury SUV in the UAE. The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a model oriented on comfort, classiness and a high level of safety, whereas the BMW X7 can be defined as a model of sporty luxury and involvement of the driver. This luxury comparison guide is a UAE SUV on how they can work in the real-world conditions of the UAE.
| Model | Price, Key Specifications & Description |
| BMW X7 (2026 UAE) | Price: Starting from approx. AED 579,000 Engine: 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 / 4.4L V8 Power: Up to 523 hp Drivetrain: xDrive All-Wheel Drive Seating: 7-seater luxury SUV Highlights: Adaptive air suspension, curved digital display, premium leather interior, advanced driver-assistance systems. Ideal for sporty luxury and confident highway performance in UAE conditions. |
| Mercedes-Benz GLS (2026 UAE) | Price: Starting from approx. AED 439,000 Engine: 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 / 4.0L V8 Power: Up to 510 hp Drivetrain: 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive Seating: 7-seater luxury SUV Highlights: MBUX infotainment, E-Active Body Control suspension, refined cabin comfort, excellent ride quality. Best suited for family luxury, long-distance comfort, and premium UAE road driving. |
BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS Price in UAE
In the UAE, the BMW X7 starts from approximately AED 579,000, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS begins at around AED 439,000. The GLS offers a lower starting price, whereas the X7 justifies its premium with sportier performance and design-focused luxury.
- BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS Specifications in the UAE
- Both SUVs are powerful and refined when it comes to specifications.
Specifications of the BMW X7 in the UAE usually contain:
- V8 and 6-cylinder turbocharged.
- Up to 523 hp (X7 M60i)
- Adaptive air suspension
- xDrive all-wheel drive
Mercedes-Benz GLS specs in the UAE provide:
- V8 and inline-6 turbocharged engines.
- Up to 510 hp (GLS 580)
- 4MATIC all-wheel drive
State of the art E-Active Body Control suspension. By the numbers, this BMW X7 Mercedes-Benz GLS comparison in the UAE is very close, as both provide easy acceleration and an even smoother ride. Learn more about the benefits of all-wheel-drive systems in our feature on the best AWD cars in the UAE.
| Specification | BMW X7 (UAE) | Mercedes-Benz GLS (UAE) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 5151 mm | 5207 mm |
| Overall Height | 1805 mm | 1956–2030 mm |
| Overall Width | 1990–2000 mm | 1823–1850 mm |
| Wheelbaase | 3105 mm | 3135 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 131 – 140 mm | 200–355 mm (varies by spec) |
| Kerb Weight | 1610 – 1695 kg | 200–355 mm (varies by spec) |
| Boot Capacity | 750 L | 470–493 L |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 7 persons | Up to 7 persons |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Performance at the UAE Roads: Power vs Comfort
When comparing BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS performance in the UAE, the choice depends on your driving style—sporty and engaging or smooth and comfort-focused. For more insights into how BMW stacks up against other premium rivals, check out our BMW comparison with the Genesis G70 on UAE roads.
- BMW X7 performance in the UAE focuses more on steering and sports handling, which makes it the best option among drivers who like an exciting ride.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS performance in the UAE gives much importance to comfort and stability during the ride, particularly on extended highways.
They both manoeuvre around the UAE highways with relative ease, yet GLS is more relaxed, and the X7 is more dynamic.
Fuel Economy: BMW X7 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS Fuel Economy UAE
Luxury SUVs are not primarily designed for fuel efficiency, but fuel economy remains an important factor for UAE buyers, especially for long highway drives. If you’re also considering greener options, explore our list of the best electric vehicles in the UAE to see how they compare for sustainability and savings.
- BMW X7 fuel economy UAE: The fuel economy of this car is approximately 9-10 km/l, depending on the engine.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS fuel consumption UAE: A little higher in certain models, with an average of 10-11km/l.
The GLS could also be appealing in the UAE road trip as a vehicle with a slight advantage when it comes to long-distance driving.
| Metric | BMW X7 (UAE) | Mercedes-Benz GLS |
| Engine Type | TwinPower Turbo petrol inline‑6 / Mild‑hybrid | Turbocharged 3.0 L inline‑6 with mild hybrid drive |
| Displacement | 2,998 cc (petrol inline‑6) / 4,395 cc | 2,999 cc inline‑6 |
| Horsepower | 381 hp (petrol xDrive40i) / up to 530 hp | 375 hp @ 5,800‑6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 520 Nm (petrol) / ~750 Nm (V8) | 369 lb‑ft (~500 Nm) |
| Cylinder | 6 (xDrive40i) / 8 (M60i) | 6 cylinder inline‑6 |
| Acceleration 0-100Km | 5.8 s (xDrive40i) / ~4.7 s (M60i) | 6.1 s |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (electronically limited) | 250 km/h |
| Drive Type | All‑wheel drive (xDrive) | All‑wheel drive (4MATIC) |
| Start/Stop System | Mild‑hybrid with start/stop idle control (48 V system) | Mild hybrid with s |
Interior & Comfort Comparison: BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS
These SUVs shine in the interior quality.
BMW X7 Interior UAE
The BMW X7 interior in the UAE is modern and is driver-oriented, with:
- Curved digital display
- Premium Merino leather
- Sporty and luxurious cabin design.
Mercedes-Benz GLS Interiors in the UAE.
- The interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLS in the UAE is oriented towards luxury:
- Dual wide-screen MBUX screens.
- Premium materials, ambient lighting, and high-end craftsmanship create a first-class cabin experience.
- Outstanding second and third row luxury.
In case a luxurious environment is more important than sportiness, the GLS can be more luxurious.
Seating & Practicality
Both SUVs are family-friendly.
- BMW X7 seating capacity in the UAE: 7 people, flexible seating arrangements.
- Mercedes-Benz seating capacity GLS UAE: 7, a bit more comfortable in the third row.
Both have good cargo capacities, which makes them perfect to use when running errands to the airport, family tours, and even business.
Towing Capacity: Power Counts
For buyers who plan to tow boats or trailers in the UAE:
- BMW X7 towing capacity UAE: Approximately 3500kg.
- Towing capacity of Mercedes-Benz GLS in the UAE: It is also about 3,500 kg.
- This renders both to be good competitors in the luxury utility market.
For serious adventure seekers, review our guide to the top off-road vehicles for UAE desert terrain.
| Feature | BMW X7 (UAE) | Mercedes-Benz GLS |
| Climate Control | Five‑zone automatic climate control | Five‑zone automatic climate control |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes (rear & 3rd row vents) | Yes (rear & 3rd row vents) |
| Heated Seats | Heated front and second‑row seats are standard | Heated front and second‑row seats standard |
| Leather Seats | Heated front & rear seats available | Merino extended leather upholstery |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Panoramic glass sunroof with LED lighting | Panoramic sunroof with power sunshade |
| Interior Lighting | Multi‑color ambient lighting | 64‑colour ambient LED lighting |
Maintenance Cost in the UAE
Owning a full-size luxury SUV in the UAE involves premium servicing costs, especially for V8 variants and advanced suspension systems.
- BMW X7 service cost in the UAE: Generally, a little bit cheaper because of service packages.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS service price UAE: Slightly increased, particularly post-warranty.
There are long-service contracts that are strongly suggested for both.
Final Decision: What Luxury SUV is Even More Valued?
Which is the better luxury SUV in the UAE: X7 or GLS?
- Select the UAE BMW X7 luxury SUV if sporty performance, fresh design, and slightly reduced initial cost are important to you.
- Select the Mercedes-Benz GLS luxury SUV in the UAE when it comes to more comfort, ride quality, and high-end interiors.
Overall, both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS are among the best luxury SUVs in the UAE for 2026. For more expert reviews, price updates, and vehicle comparisons in the UAE, visit Dubai Wheels home. If you prefer dynamic performance and a modern, sporty design, the BMW X7 is the better choice. If comfort, ride quality, and premium cabin experience matter most, the Mercedes-Benz GLS stands out. Your final decision depends on whether you prioritize driving excitement or executive-level comfort.
FAQs
Which is better for UAE roads: BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The two are good; however, the BMW X7 is better in sporty driving, whereas the Mercedes-Benz GLS is more comfortable when making long UAE highway trips.
How much is the BMW X7 in the UAE?
THE BMW X7 selling price in the UAE begins at about AED 579,000, depending on features and models.
In the UAE, what is the cost of a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
Mercedes-Benz GLS price in the UAE begins with about AED 439, 000 and may rise with the addition of superior trims.
What are the specifications of the BMW X7 in the UAE?
BMW X7 has turbo 6-cylinder and V8 engines, xDrive all-wheel-drive, adaptive air suspension, and state of the art driver assistant systems.
What are the UAE specifications of the Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The GLS has potent turbocharged engines, 4MATIC AWD, E-Active Body Control, and MBUX infotainment.
What is the most fuel-efficient luxury SUV in the UAE?
The GLS Mercedes-Benz has a little more fuel efficiency in the UAE conditions, particularly the long-distance on highw
