Korean Brand Tyres in UAE: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Driving in the UAE presents unique challenges, and selecting the right car tyres is important for your overall safety and comfort. 

In the latest years, Korean tyre brands emerged in the market as strong contenders with top quality tyres in the UAE market due to their value and performance. 

Yet, deciding on the best tyre brand for you can be exhausting. 

Many discussions can be biased in some cases where sources might push their agenda favouring certain tyre brands over others. 

These discussions could cost you time and money. 

That’s why we’ve created this guide to let you avoid any of the pitfalls that your fellow UAE drivers might have fallen for. 

This is your blueprint for Korean Brand Tyres. 

It’s the encyclopedia for Korean tyres in the UAE. 

We’ll cover all you need to know about their history, how to know the best tyre for you, and expert recommendations on top-notch Korean tyre brand models for plenty of car brands. 

So pull up an easy chair, prop your feet and let’s dive into the sea of Korean Tyres. 

What are Korean Brand Tyres, and Why Do They Matter for UAE Drivers?

As the name indicates, Korean Brand Tyres are tyres manufactured in South Korea. 

Apart from K-drama and K-Pop, South Korea is known for its long history and significance in the automotive world. 

Top quality tyres like Hankook, Kumho & Nexen have gained popularity and recognition worldwide. 

The Korean tyre brands market isn't just growing; it's experiencing a Midas Touch with an expected value of $6,603.19 million by the end of 2032.

Korean brand tyres are great for the UAE for a multitude of interrelated reasons. 

To note, withstanding extreme temperatures as they’re crafted with robust compounds and raw materials. 

They also could save you lots of money while providing premium performance due to their less price but similar performance as top quality tyres. 

Korean tyre firms are also known for their investment in R&D. 

Hankook for instance increased their spending by 350% once for this department. 

This investment makes the tyres more environment and driver friendly at the same time. 

Korean tyre brands also cater to different UAE needs offering a wide range of tyres. 

All-season, High Performance, UHP, you name it! 

The History of Korean Tyre Brands

Korean Brand Tyres has been in the market for nearly a decade. 

In this decade they’ve shown that they are premium top quality tyres. 

Most of the key players like Hankook and Nexen always innovate and adapt to the needs of the market. 

For instance, Hankook in 2022 presented their airless tyre concept i-Flex. 

The tyre was unique due to great shock absorption and capacity due to the biometric design. 

In this section, we’ll discuss what are the different histories of key tyre brands like Hankook, Nexen, Hankook and Kumho and how they shaped the South Korean industry forever. 

Hankook

Hankook was launched in 1941 as Chosun Daiya Industrial 84 years ago. 

Hankook is one of the most popular, if not the most popular South Korean brand. 

It’s the country’s very first tyre firm. 

They produce around 100 million tyres every year. 

The firm recorded several key moments and milestones like sponsoring the UEFA Europa league in 2012 and forging a marketing partnership with Real Madrid in 2016. 

Hankook recorded a total of 6.3807 billion sales in the year of 2024!

The firm’s well-known for their environmental practices and achieving environmental goals. 

For example, they aim to reduce GHG emission by 50% by 2050.

And in case you didn’t know, Lauffen tyres are managed by Hankook too as they collaborate to provide great value while not breaking your wallet. 

Beyond selling tyres, the brand has created creative ways to connect with its customers. 

An example of this is DRIVE in 2024 where they featured Korean artists in art exhibitions and collaborated with fashion brands. 

This test where Hankook Ventus Prime 3 ranked first among other reputable brands like Pirelli and Michelin is a testimony of the tyres quality. 

Kumho

Launched in 19600, Kumho tyres were found in the city of Gwangju.

Their initial name was Samyang Tire. 

Today Kumho Tires  is part of Kumho Doublestar Tyre Group selling in over 150 countries globally. 

Not only do they have two plants in South Korea but also they have three operating facilities in China in the cities of Nanjing, Tianjin and Changchun. 

The brand breakthrough was in the early 2000s where they expanded globally and came to shine. 

In 2006, Kumho developed the first 32-inch UHP tyres for suvs and just a year later they became the OE supplier for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars. 

Not only did they innovate, but also they captured 40% of the Formula 3 tyre market. 

Like any growing brand Kumho had rough challenges. 

In 2011, they faced wide criticism in China due to using recycled materials, but they managed the crisis as they issued a public apology. 

The brand now focuses its efforts on the drivers needs. 

A proof of this is that they won the 2024 Green Good Design Award in North America which is an award given to tyres equipped with environmentally friendly features. 

Nexen

We can’t speak of Korean Tyres without mentioning Nexen. 

The tyre origins trace back to 1942 just a year after Hankook. 

Nexen’s story isn’t about flashy slogans or overnight success. 

It’s about delivering value and promise. 

The firm is known to make the first vehicle tyre after the Japanese Korean war in 1956.

Like its peers, Nexen tyres prospered in the 2000s changing its name to what we know today. 

Nexen combines the words of next and generation emphasizing futuristic approach. 

It's in 2005 when they launched a firm in the US. (NEXEN TIRE AMERICA,INC). 

The firm has a total of three production sites, two in South Korea and one in China. 

In the year of 2018, they launched a new facility in the Czech Republic in the city of Zatec.

The firm works closely with reputable car manufacturers like Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler. 

If you like to binge-watch premier league matches every once in a while you would notice the logo of Nexen on Manchester city’s badge and as you’ve probably guessed. 

Yes they do sponsor the club from August 2015. 

The firm’s production rate is estimated to be 42 million annually. 

The firm is in a continuous process of growth given that they’re developing a plant in the US at the moment. 

Pros and Cons of Hankook Tyres for UAE Drivers

Hankook tyres have become a popular choice in the UAE for several reasons, so let’s break down what they do well and where they fall short. 

Hankook tyres are a great choice for UAE roads for many reasons. 

They can withstand the brutal hot climate of UAE due to their strong sidewalls, preventing wear out. 

They provide great value for money.

Whether you drive an SUV, sedan, or something sporty, models like the Dynapro AT2 or Ventus V12 Evo2 offer decent grip and comfort without the higher price tag you’d pay for other premium tyre brands. 

Models like RF10 are great for off-roading and can help you navigate rocky and sand roads without hassle. 

Living in the UAE you probably drive on highways lots of time. 

Another feature that’s worth noting in hankook tyres is that in some models, like the Kinergy Eco2 re designed to reduce how hard your engine has to work due to their low rolling resistance. 

Some models, like the Kinergy Eco2, are designed to reduce how hard your engine has to work.

That means you might save a bit on fuel, especially if you spend a lot of time on highways.

No one likes a noisy drive. 

Models like Ventus S1 AS (H125)  are great to cut the noise making your ride more enjoyable. 

Where they might fall short ? 

Not the best choice for heavy rain. 

Hankook tyres don't handle deep water and strong rain too well. 

Aquaplaning also can be the issue with certain models, so you have to keep that in mind especially in extreme weather. 

The tyres longevity can be less compared to other premium models like Michelin. 

For example, Optimo H426 was worn out around 33-39 k miles according to user reviews. 

Also, aggressive drivers noted that some models like didn’t feel sharp in fast or tight turns. 

Pros and Cons of Kumho Tyres for UAE Drivers

Here's a closer look at what Kumho brings to the table for drivers in the UAE. 

One of the biggest reasons people choose Kumho is the price.

You can find models starting around AED 150 and going up to about AED 840, depending on size and type. 

That’s noticeably cheaper than brands like Michelin or Bridgestone, making Kumho a solid pick if you're trying to save some money without totally compromising on quality.

The brand’s got a tyre for every driver and every car. 

If you spend your time on city roads or head into the desert now and then, you’ll find options like the Road Venture AT51 for off-roading and Solus KH17 for regular day-to-day driving. 

You could find both at Tyresonline.ae. 

Driving in the UAE means dealing with serious heat.

Kumho tyres are made with materials that can take high temperatures without breaking down too quickly. 

Some models, like the ECOWING ES31, are designed to stay cooler and use less fuel by reducing heat buildup.

When rain hits the road can get slippery in a blink.

Tyres like the Crugen HP71 come with tread patterns and compounds that grip better in both dry and wet conditions, giving you more control when there’s an unexpected turn of events. 

On the other hand, this is where the tyres might fall short. 

Kumho tyres lacks specialized tyres for high-speed driving which may not be something enthusiasts want to hear. 

While they do okay in the UAE’s hot climate, Kumho tyres might not last as long as premium brands if you're regularly on rocky roads or carrying heavy loads.

Compared to some brands like Bridgestone, the tyres could wear out sooner. 

Not all Kumho tyres are created equal. 

The Road Venture AT51, for example, can be a bit loud at high speeds. 

If you’re doing long highway trips often, that extra road noise might be annoying.

Pros and Cons of Nexen Tyres for UAE Drivers

Like its peers, Nexen tyres are a solid pick if you want something that works well without burning a hole in your wallet.

If you're living in Dubai or driving on highways often, you'll appreciate how these tyres handle the heat.

They’re made with materials that hold up well under high temperatures and have stronger sidewalls to keep them from wearing out too soon.

They are really great at keeping things quiet. 

This is due to technology on models like the Roadian HTX. 

You’ll find Nexen tires fitted on cars from Kia, Hyundai—even Porsche. 

These are just a few of the OEM partnerships. 

Around half of what goes into Nexen tyres comes from sustainable sources, like bio-based rubber and silica. 

If you’re trying to be a bit more environmentally conscious, that’s a nice bonus.

On the contrary, here are the pitfalls of Nexen tyres. 

While some Nexen models scream all-terrain, they’re more suited for gravel roads or light trails. 

If you’re serious about off-roading, especially in rocky or sandy areas, you’ll probably need something more tough than the majority of Nexen tyres. 

Compared to other brands like Michelin or Hankook, Nexen just doesn’t have the same reputation.

That might be a dealbreaker if you care about what brand is on your car or you’re try to impress your friends on your next trip.

Which One Should I Choose?

Feature	Hankook	Kumho	Nexen
Price	Good value, varying price points	More affordable, wider range of budget options	Budget-friendly, may have slightly higher options than some Kumho models
Heat Resistance	Strong sidewalls for hot UAE climate	Materials resist heat, some models stay cooler	Materials hold up well, strong sidewalls
Variety	Range of tyres for different needs, including off-roading and performance	Tyres for various needs, may lack specialized high-speed options	Offers variety, may not have the same high-performance options
Longevity	Varies, some report less lifespan than premium brands	May wear out sooner, especially with heavy loads or rocky roads	Decent longevity, may not match premium brands
Wet Performance	Not the best for heavy rain, aquaplaning possible	Some models offer better wet grip, performance varies	Not specifically detailed in document
Noise	Some models designed for quiet rides	Some models (e.g., Road Venture AT51) can be noisy at high speeds	Generally known for being quiet (e.g., Roadian HTX)
Brand Reputation	Stronger, more established reputation	Growing brand, less recognition than Hankook	Growing brand, doesn't have reputation of premium brands
Off-Roading	Offers off-roading models (e.g., RF10)	Offers off-roading options (e.g., Road Venture AT51)	More suited for light trails, not serious off-roading
Sustainability	Focus on environmental practices and goals	Focuses on environmentally friendly features	Uses sustainable materials in production
OEM Partnerships	Various sponsorships and partnerships (e.g., UEFA Europa League)	OE supplier for Mercedes-Benz, etc.	OEM partnerships with Kia, Hyundai, Porsche, etc.

How to Choose the right tyre for you? 

Choosing the right Korean tyre brand in the UAE can be a headache, but it all comes down to what you need, what you can afford, and how you drive.

Let's break it down based on what we've talked about:

Your Budget

Kumho

If you're on a tight budget but still want good quality, Kumho has a wide variety of tyres at lower prices (AED 150 to AED 840).

Nexen

Nexen is also budget-friendly and gives you good value for your money. 

They might be a bit pricier than some Kumho tyres, but they're generally cheaper than Hankook.

Hankook

Hankook tyres offer good value but have a wider price range, with some models being more expensive. 

They offer a good balance between performance and price.

Your Driving Needs

Off-Roading

Hankook

They have models like the RF10, which are great for off-roading and driving on rocky and sandy roads.

Kumho

The Road Venture AT51 is good for off-roading, but it can be a bit noisy at high speeds.

Nexen: These are better for gravel roads or light trails, not serious off-roading.

Highway Driving

Hankook

Some models, like the Kinergy Eco2, are designed to help you save fuel on highways.

Kumho

They don't really specialize in high-speed tyres, and some models can be noisy.

Nexen

Known for quiet rides, which is great for long highway drives.

City Driving

All three brands have good options for city driving. 

Think about things like noise level and fuel efficiency. 

Hankook and Nexen have models that are designed to be quieter.

Climate and Conditions

All three brands can handle the UAE's hot weather. 

Hankook and Nexen have strong sidewalls, while Kumho uses materials that resist heat.

So, Which Brand Should You Pick?

Go for Kumho if

You're on a tight budget and need a good tyre for everyday driving or light off-roading. 

Go for Nexen if

You want a quiet ride, care about sustainability, and mostly drive in the city or on highways with some light off-roading.

Go for Hankook if

You want a good balance of performance and price, need a tyre that can handle off-roading, and like a brand with a good reputation and environmental focus.

Still Not Sure? Tyresonline.ae Can Help!

We know that picking the right tyre can be tough. 

If you're still not sure which brand or model is right for you, just get in touch with us.

Our team at Tyresonline.ae is happy to give you expert advice and help you make a decision.

Call Tyresonline.ae today, and let our team help you find the perfect Korean tyres for your needs and make sure you have a safe and comfortable driving experience in the UAE!

Final Thoughts

So, we've journeyed through the world of Korean tyres – from their history to the nitty-gritty of what makes each brand tick.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here.

Hankook, Kumho, and Nexen each have their own strengths and weaknesses.

It all boils down to what you value most and your driving style. 

If you're on a budget, Kumho might be your best bet. 

If eco-friendliness and quiet rides are your thing, Nexen could be the way to go

And if you want a good all-rounder with solid performance, Hankook might be the brand for you.

Still unsure? No worries, reach out to us at Tyresonline.ae – we're here to help you find the perfect fit for your ride and your wallet. 

Ready to Roll?

Not a fan of Korean brand tyres? 

Don’t worry we got any tyre you desire. 

All you’ve got to do is search tyresonline.ae. 

Filter through the options and you’ll get your tyre before you know it! 

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Written By: Rageh