General Motors Centennial celebrations have officially begun as the automotive giant marks 100 years of operations in Africa and the Middle East. The company has partnered with CBS, Alarabiya, and Acumen Media to launch a documentary showcasing its transformative journey from 1926 to today, highlighting how GM became one of the most trusted automotive companies in the region.
The documentary, now available for viewing, chronicles GM’s remarkable impact across the region through its world-class brands: Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac. It demonstrates how the company has positioned itself for another century of innovation and leadership in Middle Eastern and African markets.
Leadership Vision for the General Motors Centennial
“In 1926, under the leadership of GM legendary leader Alfred Sloan, our company expanded to the region – eventually expanding to nine Gulf States and North Africa markets. Over that time, I am proud that our brands – Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac – have become part of the fabric of the region.”
Rory Harvey, General Motors Executive Vice President and President of Global Markets
Harvey emphasized GM’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology like Super Cruise to the region while empowering local industries and talent. The documentary tells the story behind these innovations and the partnerships forged to realize the company’s vision.
A Century of Regional Impact and Job Creation
Jack Uppal, President and Managing Director of General Motors Africa and Middle East, highlighted the company’s customer-centric approach that has remained constant since its beginnings in Alexandria, Egypt. Every product introduced has been thoughtfully tailored to meet the unique needs of regional markets, including exclusive trims and features designed specifically for local customers.
The company’s dealer network has generated over 7,000 jobs across the region. For every GM employee, at least 50 industry professionals work together to deliver on the shared promise of progress and impact, demonstrating the multiplier effect of GM’s regional presence.
From Alexandria to Regional Hub
GM’s Middle Eastern journey began in 1926 with operations in Alexandria, Egypt. The plant quickly became a regional hub, setting new standards in assembly, distribution, and service. It served as a catalyst for regional growth, supporting local industries and training a diverse workforce representing over a dozen nationalities.
The company pioneered transportation solutions across the region, with GM buses serving Egyptian railways and Chevrolet trucks supporting vital infrastructure projects. GM introduced patent technologies including the electric self-starter, mass production breakthroughs, and automatic transmissions, making modern transportation accessible to millions.
Iconic Vehicles and Future Technologies
The documentary showcases iconic vehicles that became cultural symbols across the region. The Chevrolet Suburban, introduced in 1935 as the world’s first SUV, served families and adventurers throughout the Middle East. The Chevrolet Caprice became a cultural icon in the Gulf, while the Silverado and GMC Sierra, affectionately known as “Chaffar” and “Jims” in the Arab world, symbolized strength and pride.
Looking ahead, GM is bringing Super Cruise, the world’s first true hands-free driver assistance technology, to the Middle East in 2026 as part of the General Motors Centennial celebration. This technology sets the industry standard and marks GM’s path toward personal autonomy in driving.
In Saudi Arabia, GM’s ACDelco brand has been powering the future through battery manufacturing for 25 years, supporting the Kingdom’s vision for a diversified, knowledge-based economy through local industry development and technological innovation.
