CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai — Bulldozer Comparison 2025
Slug:cat-d6-vs-d7-vs-d8-dubai SEO Title:CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai | Bulldozer Comparison 2025 Meta Description:Compare CAT D6, D7 & D8 bulldozers in Dubai. Specs, horsepower, blade size, cost & transport insights for housing, metro & port projects in 2025.
CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai — Bulldozer Comparison 2025
When contractors in Dubai invest in a Caterpillar bulldozer, the choice usually comes down to three models: the CAT D6, D7, and D8. These dozers dominate housing developments, Dubai Metro expansions, and port projects at Jebel Ali.
But which is the right choice in 2025? This in-depth guide compares the CAT D6, D7, and D8 in terms of specs, horsepower, pricing, applications, transport, and ownership costs for Dubai contractors.
Why CAT Bulldozers Are Dubai’s #1 Choice
Reliability in desert climate — built for extreme heat, dust, and sand.
High resale value — stronger than Komatsu or Shantui.
Operator training — most operators in Dubai are CAT-certified.
Smart technology — Grade Control & Assist features save fuel and time.
CAT bulldozers are the gold standard for Dubai’s construction market.
CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 — Specifications
CAT D6 — The Versatile Choice
Horsepower: ~215 hp
Operating Weight: ~23 tons
Blade Capacity: 5–6.5 m³
Best For: Housing developments, utilities, site prep in Downtown Dubai.
Transport: Simple; no special permits required within Dubai.
👉 The D6 is the perfect entry-level dozer for contractors scaling projects.
CAT D7 — The Balanced Performer
Horsepower: ~265 hp
Operating Weight: ~28 tons
Blade Capacity: 6–7.5 m³
Best For: Roads, metro expansion, mid-size industrial projects.
Transport: Needs multi-axle trailers; may require permits.
👉 The D7 is Dubai’s most common bulldozer, bridging versatility and strength.
CAT D8 — The Heavy-Duty Powerhouse
Horsepower: ~335 hp
Operating Weight: ~39 tons
Blade Capacity: 8–10 m³
Best For: Jebel Ali port expansion, landfill, mega projects.
Transport: Requires escorts and permits on Dubai highways.
👉 The D8 is designed for Dubai’s largest and toughest projects.
CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
Bulldozer Applications in Dubai
Housing & Real Estate (Downtown, Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah)
Recommended Model: CAT D6
Small footprint, efficient for tight urban spaces.
Roads & Metro Expansion CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
Recommended Model: CAT D7
Provides balance of maneuverability and horsepower.
Ports & Logistics (Jebel Ali, Dubai South)
Recommended Model: CAT D8
Handles heavy fill, reclamation, and cargo infrastructure.
Municipal & Landfill Projects
Recommended Model: CAT D8 with guarding packages.
Price Comparison in Dubai (2025)
CAT D6: AED 450,000 – 700,000
CAT D7: AED 600,000 – 950,000
CAT D8: AED 800,000 – 1,200,000
💡 Certified-used units save 30–40% versus new bulldozers.
Ownership Costs Compared CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
Fuel Consumption:
D6 → ~20–25 liters/hr
D7 → ~25–30 liters/hr
D8 → ~30–35 liters/hr
Undercarriage (UC):
D6 → Lowest replacement cost.
D7 → Mid-range.
D8 → UC = up to 50% of lifetime ownership.
Maintenance:
Costs rise with size, especially filters & hydraulics.
CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
Transport in Dubai
D6: Can move on local trailers without escorts.
D7: Requires multi-axle trailers, some permits.
D8: Needs escorts for Jebel Ali–Abu Dhabi routes.
👉 Transport can add 5–12% to bulldozer ownership in Dubai.
CAT Technology in 2025 CAT D6 vs D7 vs D8 in Dubai
CAT Grade Control (3D): Precision grading saves time & fuel.
Assist Features: Automates blade slope, lift, and tilt.
Fuel Efficiency Packages: Reduce burn by 10–15%.
Which CAT Bulldozer Should You Buy in Dubai?
Choose D6 → Housing, utilities, small construction projects.
Choose D7 → Roads, metro expansion, industrial estates.
Choose D8 → Ports, landfill, mega infrastructure projects.