BMW X5 vs Mercedes GLE – Which Luxury SUV Wins in UAE 2025?

Abu Dhabi: The high-end luxury SUV segment in the UAE has seen some action as more and more buyers are turning to them. To cater to these growing trends, all top brands are jostling to get customers' attention with a variety of options. This makes the market crowded, and buyers are literally spoiled for choices. Two brands that managed to stay ahead of others are marquee Europeans- BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which are always something Emirati buyers get extra attracted to. 

Two SUVs that rule the upper end of the luxury segment from the German brands are the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE. It is fair to say, these aren't just expensive cars; they represent two different approaches to what a luxury SUV should be, and both have earned their place in driveways across the Emirates.

Not hard to spot them across our top cities; they are visible everywhere. The X5 has that sharp, sporty look, while the GLE is known for its elegant, refined, almost splendid presence. While they share the same roots and engineering excellence with great tech, comfort and driving dynamics, they are not the same. Far from it, and not hard to notice. The X5 leans into the driving experience, providing sharp handling and a sportier persona. The GLE is opulent and comfortable, making you feel in the lap of luxury.

If you’re in the market looking for either of them, what matters the most is your preference and choice. For buyers in the UAE, the choice matters. With 2025 models now available, featuring updated engines, refreshed interiors, and new tech features, the competition between these two has never been fiercer. We compare both to tell you what you need to know.

The Past and Present

BMW first launched the X5 in 1999, which played a crucial role in redefining the SUV segment from not much evolved to something different. More refined, smooth and great at handling. Over four generations, BMW has maintained its core and continues to offer a special luxury and comfortable experience. Over four generations, the X5 has stayed much like its original vision. The current model, launched in 2018 and updated for 2025, has improved a lot with a focus on driving dynamics without losing practicality.

Mercedes-Benz took a different path with the GLE. When it first came in 1997, it was called the M-Class, emphasising elegant comfort and luxury first. The name changed to GLE in 2015, as part of Mercedes' new naming structure, but the true idea remains the same. The current fourth-generation GLE, introduced in 2019 with its latest minor update  in 2025, which now comes with great passenger comfort and advanced technology. It's built on Mercedes' modular platform, sharing a lot of similarities and components with the E-Class and S-Class sedans, which shows in its refined on-road performance.

Looking at both the SUVs from an Emirati perspective, they have been well-established with loyal followers. The X5 appeals to buyers who love being behind the wheel, who want their SUV to feel responsive and engaging. The GLE attracts buyers who value composure, who want to arrive feeling relaxed regardless of traffic conditions. Both retain strong resale values, and both are common sights at schools, shopping malls, and business districts across the country. Nothing really goes against them, and buyers who can afford them just love the ownership experience. 

Price Comparison

Luxury SUVs cost money; that is pretty much the truth, and neither are these SUVs for everyone. But understanding the value proposition matters, especially when both vehicles start around the same price point yet offer different features at each level.

The BMW X5 comes in three variants and the price range is between AED 427,000 - 470,000. The Mercedes GLE is also available in three variants with a price range of  AED 476,900 - 562,900.

Variant	BMW X5 (AED)	Mercedes GLE (AED)
Base Model	427,000	4,76,900
Mid-Range	4,50,000	5,10,900
Top Trim	4,70,000	5,62,900
Performance	575,000 (M60i)	550,000 (AMG 53)

The GLE starts slightly lower, making it more accessible at the entry level. However, as you climb the range, the price rises considerably. Both brands offer standard warranty and service packages to make the ownership experience hassle-free.

Dimensions Comparison

Size matters when you're talking about SUVs, especially for families. Here you will find that both of them are quite big; the GLE scores a little better in overall length and interior space.

The X5 is highly visible with the typical BMW characteristics like wide, muscular, with a low roofline, with a sporty character. The highly recognisable kidney grilles are massive now, but not everyone is a fan, though it does give it an imposing road presence. Inside, the cabin feels driver-focused with driver-centric controls.

The GLE is quite conventional, with smooth flowing lines and chrome accents. It's taller, which means more headroom. The cabin has passenger comfort equally across all seats, not much emphasis on the driver's position, which isn’t a big problem.

Dimension	BMW X5 (mm)	Mercedes GLE (mm)
Length	4,935	4,924
Width	2,004	2,018
Height	1,765	1,782
Wheelbase	2,975	2,995
Ground Clearance	221	241
Fuel Tank	83L	85L
Boot Space	650L (behind 2nd row)	630L (behind 2nd row)
Wheel Size	19/20/21/22 inches	19/20/21/22 inches

 

The GLE's extra width and height make it feel more spacious inside, particularly in the second row. Whereas the X5 gets slightly more boot space and a lower loading height. Both offer optional third-row seating, though neither is generous with space back there. Think of the third row as suitable for children or short trips, not adult comfort.

Performance Comparison

Here's where the approach diverges between the German luxury brands. BMW builds the X5 for people who enjoy driving. Mercedes builds the GLE for people who enjoy being driven.

The BMW X5 xDrive40i is sporty and fun to drive with a highly capable inline-six cylinder engine that produces great overall performance across all driving conditions in the UAE, while the M60i variant is legendary for its higher output and quicker acceleration. The Mercedes GLE is equipped with a slightly more powerful inline-six cylinder with mild-hybrid EQ Boost, basically to offer you some refined power and efficient performance further bolstered by a 9-speed automatic gearbox.

Specification	BMW X5 xDrive40i	BMW X5 xDrive50i (M60i)	Mercedes-Benz GLE 450
Engine	3.0L turbocharged inline-six	4.4L turbocharged V8	3.0L turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost
Power Output (hp)	375 hp	Not specified, implied higher	367 hp
0-100 km/h Acceleration	6.5 seconds	Less than 4.8 seconds	Not specified
Top Speed	250 km/h (varies slightly)	250 km/h	Not specified
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic	9-speed automatic
Driving Experience	Refined, dynamic gear shifts	Refined, dynamic gear shifts	Engaging driving experience across varied terrains

 Take the X5 on our highways, and you feel it more engaging, with precise steering. You can feel what the front wheels are doing. Like a luxury SUV, one would expect, the body roll is minimal even during corners or changing direction. It's an SUV that encourages you to take the long way home. While the GLE feels more composed, more settled and balanced. The steering is lighter, the suspension absorbs bumps with barely a whisper, something you expect from a luxury Mercedes SUV. The air suspension is standard on higher trims and enhances ride quality.

Features Comparison

Both brands have loaded these SUVs with technology, luxury materials, and features that are contemporary and modern. This ensures that your daily driving is easier and more pleasant. But they prioritise different things.

Exterior

Feature	BMW X5	Mercedes GLE
Headlights	LED with adaptive technology	Multibeam LED with adaptive function
Wheels	19–22 inches alloy	19–22 inches alloy
Styling	Sporty, aggressive, bold grilles	Elegant, refined, smooth lines

It is clear, the X5's exterior is all about presence. Those massive kidney grilles dominate the front end. LED headlights with laser technology are available, extending high-beam range noticeably. The rear sits low, emphasising the width. M Sport packages come with aggressive body kits and larger wheels. The GLE takes a more subtle approach. With chrome accents, smooth curves, and elegant proportions. It doesn't really mean to attract attention, but it gets the necessary respect..

Interior & Comfort

Feature	BMW X5	Mercedes GLE
Upholstery	Vernasca leather / Merino leather	Artico synthetic / Nappa leather
Climate Control	4-zone automatic	4-zone automatic
Infotainment	12.3-inch curved display + 14.9-inch touchscreen	12.3-inch digital cluster + 12.3-inch touchscreen
Seating	5/7-seater	5/7-seater
Audio	Harman Kardon / Bowers & Wilkins	Burmester surround sound

The cabins of both the SUVs are just as awesome, full of luxury and elegance, visible in every aspect of the cabin. The X5, and you're greeted by BMW's latest iDrive 8 system. The curved display integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment screen perfectly. The interface, as expected, is just remarkable with good responsiveness, intuitive, and packed with some exciting features. Some standard stuff is Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The front seats are well-designed and comfortable, giving you a feeling of being in command. There is ventilation, and massage functions are available.

The GLE's interior feels more luxurious at first glance, usually what Mercedes cars are known for. The novelty is the brand's proprietary MBUX infotainment system with two large screens with touchscreen functionality for the centre display. Voice control via Hey Mercedes works well. The seats are well cushioned, feel softer, and your long drives are just superbly fun with utmost comfort. The ambient lighting has 64 colours to choose from. What further enhances your time in the cabin is the Burmester sound system, which is indeed exceptional. No surprise the material quality is excellent since these are high-end cars. The X5 uses a mix of leather, wood, and metal accents. The GLE adds more soft-touch surfaces and offers open-pore wood trim options.

Safety & Driver Assist

Feature	BMW X5	Mercedes GLE
Airbags	8	9
Driver Assist	Active Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, 360 Camera	Active Distance Assist, Active Steering Assist, Blind Spot Assist, 360 Camera
Brakes	ABS, EBD, Dynamic Stability Control	ABS, EBD, Active Brake Assist, Adaptive Damping

As far as safety goes, both SUVs have everything going as one would expect in such a high-end segment. BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional consists of evasion aid and front cross-traffic alert. The parking assistant can remember your last 50 metres of driving and reverse your path automatically; indeed, quite awesome. 

Mercedes' Driver Assistance Package comes with active steering assist that works up to 210 km/h and can help with lane changes on the highway. The pre-safe system can detect an impending collision and prepare the cabin by tensioning seatbelts and closing windows. The X5's adaptive cruise control is smooth and responsive. The GLE's system is slightly more conservative, maintaining larger gaps. But don’t be put off, as neither will let you completely zone out, but both reduce fatigue on long drives, and you reach your destination refreshed. 

Which One Best Suits the UAE in 2025?

That is not a straightforward question to answer. In the UAE, both German luxury SUVs have been highly popular with strong followers, positioned right at the top of the segment. They're practical, comfortable vehicles that handle the unique demands of driving here.

Let's look at some typical conditions that an SUV like this encounters. We know the summer heat is intense in the UAE, and both SUVs have powerful climate control systems that cool the cabin quickly. The ventilated seats are standard on higher variants, quite a feature to have when temperatures hit 50°C outside. Another useful feature is remote start via smartphone app, which means you can cool the car before you get in. Both handle this equally well, so climate control isn't a deciding factor.

On the highway, driving is another common factor for owners of these SUVs. The GLE has a slight edge here. The reason is its air suspension and softer tuning make long highway stretches more comfortable. The X5 is stable and quiet, too, but you feel more of the road. If you're going to use the SUV for regular Dubai-Abu Dhabi runs or longer trips, the GLE's comfort-first approach pays off.

For daily city driving, both work well. The X5 feels more nimble in traffic, easier to place precisely. The GLE's larger dimensions can feel a little tougher on narrow roads and congested parking situations, though the 360 camera and parking sensors come to your rescue. If you're navigating crowded malls or narrow streets regularly, the X5's slightly smaller size would make a difference.

Service and support networks are nothing to worry about; both brands have been around here for a while and have established multiple dealerships and service centres across the Emirates. Parts availability is good. Another positive is good resale value.

The X5 suits buyers who want an engaging driving experience. If you're the primary driver and you enjoy being behind the wheel, the X5 rewards you every time. The GLE is perfect for those owners who want luxury and comfort above all else. It's for the person who wants to arrive relaxed, who values a serene cabin over sharp handling. The focus on passenger comfort makes it ideal for families or anyone who regularly has business meetings and also needs to travel together with clients or colleagues. If your SUV plays a dual role as a mobile office or family transport where the number of passengers find spending a good amount of time in the back seats, the GLE's spacious, well-insulated and superior quality ride is more appealing.

Overall, it is hard to pick one; it is fair to say the GLE scores a little more, considering the buyers' profiles in the Emirates in 2025.  Its comfort-focused approach resonates well with everyone for the long highway drives, the focus on passenger space works better for families, and the serene cabin environment matches what most luxury SUV buyers actually want. But if you're a driving enthusiast and also love adventures, then the X5 may be best for you.

Conclusion

Choosing between the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE comes down to what you value most in a luxury SUV. Both are equally promising choices, and have a lot that makes them perfect in their own standing. Honestly, there isn’t much of a difference. As an end user, you get almost everything.

Both are exceptionally well-built and known luxury SUVs that tick all the right boxes as far as the UAE’s lifestyle or driving conditions are concerned.  Deliver on all applications, like families use, daily commute or even long road trips. So, head to the brand's showroom, explore it closely. Test drive both. Spend time in each cabin. See which philosophy resonates with you. Whichever you choose, you're getting one of the best luxury SUVs available today.