In short: This guide covers catalytic converter prices across the Gulf Region (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman) and South Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh) in 2026. Learn what your converter is worth, why SUVs and luxury cars command premium prices, and how to get the best value through professional recycling.
A catalytic converter in the Middle East and South Asia is worth between $50 and $900 USD (approximately AED 185-3,300 or INR 4,200-75,000) depending on the vehicle type, converter condition, and precious metal content. Prices in 2026 reflect elevated platinum group metal (PGM) markets, with platinum trading above $2,300 per ounce and palladium exceeding $2,000 per ounce following the rally in late 2025.
The Gulf region commands particularly strong prices due to the prevalence of large SUVs (Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol) and luxury European vehicles – both categories containing significantly higher PGM content than standard passenger cars. At Recohub, our UAE-based facility serves the entire Middle East and South Asia region with professional assay analysis to ensure you receive fair market value for every auto catalyst.
📋 What This Article Covers
Precious Metal Market Trends Driving Catalytic Converter Prices in 2026
Every car catalytic converter derives its value from the platinum group metals (PGMs) contained within its ceramic honeycomb structure. According to the Heraeus Precious Metals Forecast 2026, platinum prices are projected to range between $1,300 and $1,800 per ounce throughout the year, while palladium forecasts suggest $950 to $1,500 per ounce. These projections follow the exceptional rally in late 2025 that pushed PGM prices to multi-year highs.
Supply chain disruptions from major producing regions continue to support elevated prices. Russia and South Africa together account for over 75% of global palladium production, and geopolitical tensions have created persistent supply uncertainty. The U.S. Geological Survey’s Mineral Commodity Summaries 2025 reports that recycled automotive catalysts now provide approximately 25-30% of global palladium supply – underscoring the importance of catalytic converter price recovery through professional recycling channels.
How Do Precious Metal Prices Affect Catalytic Converter Values in 2026?
Rising precious metal prices directly increase your automotive catalytic converter value because the platinum, palladium, and rhodium content becomes more valuable when extracted and refined. When platinum prices climb by 30%, the recoverable value of your converter’s platinum content increases proportionally. This relationship makes 2026 an excellent time to sell converters from scrapped or upgraded vehicles.
Professional recyclers track real-time commodity markets and adjust purchasing rates daily. A converter worth AED 1,500 one week could be worth AED 1,650 the next if palladium prices surge. For detailed insight into how metal prices translate to actual payments, read our guide: Catalytic Converter Cost Breakdown: Parts vs. Labour vs. Market Metal Prices.
What Types of Catalytic Converters Are Worth the Most Money?
The highest-value catalytic converters come from hybrid vehicles, large SUVs, and luxury European cars – all categories well-represented in the Gulf region. Hybrid converters (Toyota Prius, Camry Hybrid) contain 10-15 grams of PGMs because they must function efficiently during frequent engine start-stop cycles. Large SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol contain 8-12 grams due to their higher displacement engines and strict emissions requirements.
Catalytic Converter Prices by Vehicle Type (Middle East & South Asia 2026)
| Vehicle Category | Price (USD) | PGM Content | Common In |
| Small Cars (Yaris, City) | $50 – $200 | 3-5 grams | South Asia |
| Medium Sedans (Camry, Accord) | $150 – $400 | 5-8 grams | All regions |
| Large SUVs (Land Cruiser, Patrol) | $300 – $700 | 8-12 grams | Gulf Region |
| Luxury Cars (BMW, Mercedes) | $250 – $600 | 6-10 grams | Gulf Region |
| Hybrid Vehicles (Prius) | $400 – $900 | 10-15 grams | UAE, India |
| Diesel Vehicles | $100 – $350 | 4-8 grams | South Asia |
| Aftermarket Converters | $20 – $50 | 1-2 grams | All regions |
Note: Prices are estimates based on January 2026 market conditions. Actual values depend on assay analysis and current precious metal spot prices.
Why Are SUV and Luxury Car Converters Worth More in the Gulf Region?
SUV and luxury car catalyst prices are significantly higher in the Gulf because these vehicles dominate the regional market and contain substantially more precious metals than standard cars. A Toyota Land Cruiser converter can contain 8-12 grams of PGMs – roughly double what you’d find in a typical sedan – because larger engines produce more exhaust volume requiring more catalyst material.
The extreme Gulf climate also plays a role. Vehicles operating in 40-50°C temperatures with heavy air conditioning loads work their engines harder, which is why manufacturers specify robust catalytic converters with generous precious metal loading. When these vehicles reach end-of-life, their converters represent significant recoverable value that shouldn’t be underestimated.
How Much Is a BMW Converter Worth in 2026?
A BMW converter is worth between $200 and $700 depending on the model, with larger vehicles and M-series performance models commanding premium prices. BMW converters are particularly common in the Gulf region’s luxury vehicle market, and their German-engineered quality means higher precious metal content compared to economy brands.
BMW Catalytic Converter Values (2026)
| BMW Model | Price (USD) | Price (AED) | Notes |
| BMW 3 Series | $200 – $400 | AED 735 – 1,470 | Common, moderate PGM |
| BMW 5 Series | $250 – $500 | AED 920 – 1,835 | Higher PGM content |
| BMW 7 Series | $300 – $600 | AED 1,100 – 2,200 | Premium converter |
| BMW X5 / X7 | $350 – $650 | AED 1,285 – 2,385 | Large SUV, high value |
| BMW M Series | $400 – $700 | AED 1,470 – 2,570 | Performance, high PGM |
Why Are Toyota Prius and Hybrid Catalytic Converters Worth More?
Hybrid vehicle catalytic converters are worth $400 to $900 – significantly more than standard petrol cars – because they contain substantially higher precious metal concentrations. A Toyota Prius converter typically holds 10-15 grams of platinum group metals compared to just 3-5 grams in a standard sedan. This difference translates directly into higher scrap value.
The engineering reason is straightforward. Hybrid engines cycle on and off constantly during normal driving, meaning the catalytic converter must reach optimal operating temperature quickly during each restart. Cold converters don’t work efficiently, so manufacturers load hybrid converters with extra precious metals to ensure they “light off” faster and maintain emissions compliance during frequent start-stop cycles.
In the Middle East and South Asia, the Toyota Prius, Camry Hybrid, and Lexus hybrids are increasingly popular – particularly in the UAE where fuel efficiency and environmental awareness are growing. These vehicles’ converters represent some of the highest values in the regional market:
Hybrid Vehicle Catalytic Converter Values (2026)
| Hybrid Model | Price (USD) | Price (AED) | PGM Content |
| Toyota Prius (Gen 2-4) | $500 – $900 | AED 1,835 – 3,300 | 12-15 grams |
| Toyota Camry Hybrid | $450 – $750 | AED 1,650 – 2,750 | 10-13 grams |
| Lexus RX Hybrid | $500 – $850 | AED 1,835 – 3,120 | 11-14 grams |
| Lexus ES Hybrid | $450 – $700 | AED 1,650 – 2,570 | 10-12 grams |
| Honda Accord Hybrid | $400 – $650 | AED 1,470 – 2,385 | 9-11 grams |
The Prius is particularly notable because earlier generations (Gen 2 and Gen 3) often contain even more precious metals than newer models, as Toyota refined their catalyst formulations over time. If you have an older Prius, don’t assume it’s worth less – the converter could be among the most valuable in your fleet.
Catalytic Converter Prices by Country: Regional Comparison
Converter values vary across the region based on the typical vehicle mix, local regulations, and market maturity. Gulf countries generally command higher average prices due to their concentration of large SUVs and luxury vehicles, while South Asian markets see more volume in smaller vehicles with correspondingly lower individual converter values.
Regional Price Comparison (2026)
| Country | Price Range (USD) | Local Currency | Key Factors |
| UAE | $150 – $700 | AED 550 – 2,570 | Luxury, SUVs dominant |
| Saudi Arabia | $150 – $650 | SAR 560 – 2,440 | Large SUVs, trucks |
| Kuwait | $150 – $600 | KWD 46 – 185 | High-end vehicles |
| Qatar | $150 – $650 | QAR 545 – 2,365 | Luxury market |
| Oman | $100 – $500 | OMR 38 – 192 | Mixed vehicle market |
| India | $50 – $400 | INR 4,200 – 33,500 | Volume, BS6 standards |
| Sri Lanka | $50 – $300 | LKR 15,000 – 90,000 | Import vehicles |
| Bangladesh | $40 – $250 | BDT 4,400 – 27,500 | Older vehicle fleet |
What Factors Determine How Much Your Catalytic Converter Is Worth?
Five primary factors determine your automobile catalytic converter value: the vehicle make and model, whether it’s an OEM or aftermarket unit, physical condition, ceramic honeycomb integrity, and current precious metal spot prices. Understanding these variables helps you estimate your converter’s worth and avoid underselling to uninformed buyers.
OEM (original equipment) converters are worth significantly more than aftermarket replacements because manufacturers engineer them to meet strict emissions standards for the vehicle’s entire lifespan. An OEM converter from a Land Cruiser might fetch $500-700, while an aftermarket replacement for the same vehicle could be worth only $30-50.
How to Identify a High-Value Catalytic Converter
Identifying high-value converters before selling helps you avoid underselling to uninformed buyers. Several visual and physical indicators can help you estimate whether your converter falls into the premium category or represents standard value.
Check the serial number first. Every OEM catalytic converter has a serial number stamped or engraved on the metal housing. This number identifies the exact model and allows professional buyers like Recohub to look up the converter in databases containing verified assay results. Aftermarket converters often have generic or missing serial numbers – a red flag that the unit contains minimal precious metals.
Assess the weight and size. Heavier converters generally contain more precious metals. A typical sedan converter weighs 1-3 kg, while SUV and truck converters can weigh 4-8 kg. Hybrid converters are often surprisingly heavy for their size due to increased catalyst loading. If your converter feels substantial, it’s likely worth more than a lightweight unit.
Look at the honeycomb condition. Inside every converter is a ceramic honeycomb structure coated with precious metals. If you can see inside (through the inlet or outlet), check whether the honeycomb is intact or damaged. Broken, melted, or missing honeycomb sections reduce recoverable value. However, even damaged converters have value – just less than intact units.
Identify the vehicle origin. Converters from Japanese vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Lexus) and European vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Porsche) typically command higher prices than converters from economy brands. Vehicles sold in regions with strict emissions standards (Europe, Japan, USA) contain more precious metals than those from markets with looser regulations.
Know the high-value categories:
- Hybrid vehicles (Prius, Camry Hybrid, Lexus hybrids) – highest values • Large SUVs (Land Cruiser, Patrol, Lexus LX) – premium prices • Luxury European (BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Audi) – above average • Pre-2010 vehicles – often contain more PGMs than newer models • Diesel vehicles with DPF – additional value from filter materials
When in doubt, send photos and serial numbers to Recohub for a professional assessment. Our database includes thousands of converter types with verified assay results, allowing us to quickly identify high-value units that visual inspection alone might miss.
Where Can I Sell My Catalytic Converter in the Middle East & South Asia?
Selling your catalytic converter through a professional recycling facility ensures you receive fair market value based on accurate precious metal analysis rather than generic estimates. Recohub operates a dedicated processing facility in the UAE that serves customers throughout the Gulf Region and South Asia.
We purchase converters from all eight countries in the region, with established logistics networks for efficient collection. Whether you’re an individual with a single converter or a business with regular volume, our UAE facility provides professional assay analysis to determine exact precious metal content – ensuring transparent, fair pricing for every transaction.
Avoid selling to informal buyers or unverified exporters who may offer below-market prices based on visual estimates alone. Reputable recyclers use laboratory-grade analysis to determine actual PGM content, and the difference between an educated guess and a proper assay can mean hundreds of dollars in your pocket.
How Does the Assay Process Determine Your Converter’s Value?
The assay process is what separates professional recycling from guesswork. At Recohub, we use XRF (X-ray fluorescence) spectroscopy and chemical analysis methods to measure the exact platinum, palladium, and rhodium content in each converter. This laboratory-grade testing eliminates estimation errors and ensures your payment accurately reflects your material’s true worth.
Many converters that look identical can have dramatically different PGM content depending on the manufacturer, vehicle specifications, and production year. A professional assay identifies these differences, often revealing value that visual inspection would miss entirely. Learn the complete process: How Assay Results Translate to Scrap Price.
The Environmental Importance of Catalytic Converter Recycling
Professional catalytic converter recycling serves critical environmental purposes beyond generating income for sellers. Mining platinum group metals from natural ores requires massive amounts of energy and creates significant environmental impact. Recycled converters now supply approximately 25-30% of global palladium demand, reducing the need for destructive mining operations.
The precious metals recovered from your old converter will be refined and reused in new catalytic converters, electronic components, or industrial applications. By recycling through established facilities like Recohub, you’re participating in a sustainable materials loop that benefits both the economy and the environment.
Ready to Sell Your Catalytic Converter?
If you have a used catalytic converter and want to receive fair market value based on professional assay analysis, Recohub is ready to help. Our UAE facility serves customers throughout the Middle East and South Asia with transparent pricing, expert analysis, and competitive payment terms. Whether you have a single converter or regular volume from your business, we provide the same commitment to accuracy and fair dealing.
Visit Recohub to learn more about our services or contact us directly for a quote on your catalytic converters. Take advantage of strong PGM markets and convert your unused converters into cash today.
FAQ
What is the average catalytic converter price in the UAE and Gulf region?
The average catalytic converter price in the UAE and Gulf region ranges from $150 to $700 (AED 550-2,570) depending on the vehicle type. SUVs like Land Cruiser and Patrol command $300-700, while medium sedans typically bring $150-400. Luxury European vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Porsche) fall in the $250-600 range. Contact Recohub for a precise quote based on assay analysis.
How much is a BMW catalytic converter worth in 2026?
A BMW catalytic converter is worth between $200 and $700 in 2026. The 3 Series brings $200-400, the 5 Series $250-500, the 7 Series $300-600, X5/X7 models $350-650, and high-performance M Series $400-700. Actual value depends on model year and assay-verified precious metal content.
How can I find out what my car catalyst is worth before selling?
You can get a preliminary estimate using the price tables in this guide based on your vehicle type. For accurate valuation, send photos and converter details to Recohub for a no-obligation quote. Our database includes thousands of converter types with verified assay results, allowing us to provide accurate estimates before you ship your materials.
Does Recohub buy catalytic converters from the Middle East and South Asia?
Yes, Recohub purchases catalytic converters from all eight countries covered in this guide: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Our UAE-based facility serves the entire region with established logistics networks for collection and competitive pricing based on professional assay analysis.
Why are Land Cruiser and Patrol catalytic converters worth more than other vehicles?
Land Cruiser and Patrol converters are worth more because their large-displacement engines require converters with higher precious metal loading to meet emissions standards. These SUVs typically contain 8-12 grams of platinum group metals compared to 3-5 grams in small cars. The Gulf region’s hot climate also means manufacturers specify robust converters, further increasing PGM content.
