The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UAE has grown in popularity over recent years, driven by government initiatives and environmental concerns among consumers. As more residents consider EVs as a viable alternative to traditional gasoline vehicles, the demand for a comprehensive EV charging infrastructure has become essential.
This blog explores the current state of the EV charging network in the UAE and the trends shaping its future.
Current EV Charging Network in UAE
The UAE has made impressive strides in establishing a reliable EV charging network across its Emirates. Key providers, including DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) and ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company), have led the way in expanding the number of charging stations available.
Most stations in the UAE are strategically located in popular areas, such as malls, hotels and main highways, making it convenient for EV owners to access charging points across the country. With the presence of rapid and standard charging options, EV users can confidently travel within and between Emirates without fear of running out of power.
According to statistics from ElectroMaps, as of 2023, there are currently 2000 public EV charging stations across the UAE, with most of them being in Dubai. The second emirate that follows is the capital, Abu Dhabi, while Umm Al Quwain is ranked last, with only ten charging stations available at the moment. This data suggests that the popularity of EV vehicles is by far the greatest in Dubai, and that trend seems to grow even more in the following years.
The availability and convenience of EV charging stations make it even more appealing for consumers to consider purchasing an EV vehicle, considering its many benefits for the environment and sustainability.
Here is where you can find some of the EV charging station locations in Dubai:
- Public EV charger, Gate Avenue, DIFC
- Public EV charger, Al Nasr Club, Maktoum Stadium
- Public EV charger, Dubai Courts
- Public EV charger, DEWA, Burj Nahar Customer Happiness Center
- Public EV charger, Dubai Hospital, Deira
- Wallbox EV Charger, City Walk
- Public EV Charger, H.H Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Office, Al Wasl Road
- EV Charger, Grand parking, Dubai Mall
- EV Charging Station, Lower basement, Festival City Mall
- ENOC Petrol Station, Dubai Internet City
- ENOC Petrol Station, Wadi Al Safa
These are just some of the convenient locations, but you can also find an EV charging station in almost any mall across the UAE.
How to Use an EV Charging Station in Dubai?
As mentioned before, most public EV charging stations have been installed by the local electrical authorities and are very easy to use.
To begin with, for Dubai, every customer is required to register on the DEWA website or, alternatively, follow the steps on the charging station itself to avail of the guest mode feature.
How Much Does it Cost to Use an EV Charging Port in UAE?
In 2024, the UAE cabinet has announced a resolution for a new fee structure for electric charging in the country. Resolution no.81 clearly states that the providers should charge a minimum of 1.20 AED (plus tax) per kWh for a fast charging station and a minimum of 0.70 AED (plus tax) per kWh for a slow one.
However, public charging stations typically charge a fixed rate per kWh that was set by an electric utility provider, such as DEWA, ADDC, SEWA, etc., for the use of electricity. That would signify you are to pay somewhere around 6.7 AED/hr for an AC charger, depending on the station.
Current Trends in EV Charging Infrastructure
Currently, the UAE government is running an EV Green Charger Initiative, which aims to promote eco-friendly transportation. At the DEWA Green charger stations, customers can easily charge their vehicles by simply scanning a QR code and proceeding with either their DEWA registered account or guest mode.
There are over 400 charging stations installed in different areas of Dubai, including malls, airports, hospitals, residential complexes, petrol stations and more.
The UAE government has embraced green politics and is actively working to promote sustainability, with significant initiatives in place to further the EV charging network.
There are four different types of chargers available, including:
- Ultra-fast charger (150 kW DC with type 2 Socket)
- Fast charger (43 kW AC with Type 2 Socket, 50 kW DC ChadeMO and Combo CCS Sockets). Most of these are installed at petrol stations
- Public charger (2 x 22 kW AC, with double Type 2 Socket)
- Wall-box (22 kW AC, with single Type 2 Socket)
Future Trends in EV Charging Infrastructure
Government Initiatives and Green Policies:
The UAE Vision 2030 emphasizes sustainable development and the reduction of carbon footprints. Authorities have introduced incentives such as free parking for EVs, reduced registration fees, and green loans to encourage the transition to EVs, promising further enhancement to the EV charging infrastructure.
ADNOC and TAQA (Abu Dhabi National Energy Company) have set an ambitious goal to install 70,000 EV charging stations in the emirate by 2030.
Smart Charging Solutions and Renewable Energy Integration:
With advancements in smart technology, many charging stations in the future will incorporate IoT-driven systems for faster and more efficient charging. Additionally, the UAE is exploring ways to integrate renewable energy into EV charging, harnessing solar power to make EV charging even more sustainable and cost-effective.
Expected Growth in Charging Stations and Technology:
The number of charging stations is expected to increase as the demand for EVs continues to grow. Upcoming charging stations may offer high-speed, wireless or even mobile charging options, minimizing waiting times and making EVs more practical for daily use.
Besides, the UAE aims to have 30% of public transport vehicles and 10% of all vehicles to be electric (EV or hybrid) by 2030. They have already converted around 20% of their federal government vehicles to EV powertrains, showcasing their dedication towards achieving the goal.
Conclusion
As the UAE pushes forward with its sustainability agenda, the future of EV charging infrastructure looks promising. The country’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies and green policies suggests that EVs will become increasingly popular. This shift will not only benefit the environment but also improve mobility options for the UAE residents, setting an example for sustainable urban development across the Middle East.
