The Ultimate Guide to Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Dubai

Falcon
June 29, 2024
3:41 pm

The UAE is experiencing a clean mobility revolution. It is predominantly electric vehicles (EVs). This guide has useful insights concerning navigating EV charging infrastructure in Dubai. It provides a comprehensive description on different types of charging stations. Starting with AC chargers suitable for everyday use to powerful DC fast chargers that are convenient for long distance travels.

EV Charging Stations

Dubai has the largest EV charging network in the UAE. One of DEWA’s initiatives is installing Green EV Chargers all over the city of Dubai. Etihad Water & Electricity (EtihadWE) and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) also have put up a number of charging stations across various Emirate states. These make 400+ total stations.

Types Of EV Charging Plugs Available in the UAE

Type 2 Socket: Common for AC charging with maximum delivery rate of 43 kW.
Combo CCS: Increasingly popular, one charger supporting both AC and DC Fast charging up to 150 kW.
ChadeMO: Another choice for DC fast charge up to 50 kW.

Types Of Chargers & Charging Speeds in the UAE

Wall-Box: AC charger at 22 kW using Type 2 socket.
Public Charger: AC charger at 22 kW using Type 2 socket.
Fast Charger: AC charger at 43 kW using Type 2 socket.
Fast Charger: DC charger at 50 kW supporting ChadeMO & Combo CCS.
Ultrafast Charger: DC charger at 150 kW using Type2 sockets

How To Find Charging Stations in the UAE?

Electric vehicle owners can refer to several sources besides just googling:

DEWA

For those in Dubai, DEWA operates a vast network of charging stations. You can find locations on their website or mobile app;

PlugShare

A widely used app offering a worldwide database of charging points.

ElectroMaps

This site and app provide detailed information about charging points in the UAE.

Dubai EV Community Hub

It offers localized information about EV charging in Dubai. Including station addresses as well as tips on how to use network;

Google Maps & Apple Maps

Both offer an extensive collection of charge points. Also, with complete information with plug type, charger power and real-time availability.

ChargeMap

In Dubai, ChargeMap offers access to 70 semi-public and public charging stations for electric cars. Some of the locations are:

The Dubai Mall
Jebel Ali Supercharger
Dubai HealthCare City

EV Charging at Home

To register an EV home charging in the UAE, specific processes have to be followed according to emirate:

Dubai

Electric vehicle owners should visit the DEWA website. Where they can make registration for their vehicles and apply for a Green Charger card suitable for EVs. Total fee is AED 520.

Abu Dhabi

Registration of both chargers and vehicles is made available through ADDC website. Flat monthly fee is AED 92 until meter installation after which billing is based on actual usage.

Other Emirates

Sharjah, Ajman and other emirates follow the Dubai model mentioned above.

EV Green Charger Card

Payment of monthly charging bills in Dubai is simplified by DEWA’s EV Green Charger Card. Below are the ways how to benefit from this service:

Registration

DEWA website allows you to request the EV Green Charger Card by enrolling. Within 3 days of online application or via DEWA smart app, cards usually arrive. Immediate issuance can also be done at DEWA Happiness Centres.

Required Documents and Fee

The same name as your Emirates ID, Mulkiya, and driving license is used when registering the EV Card. A refundable security deposit of 500 AED has to be made for one to get it.

Reporting Lost or Damaged Cards

In case you lose your green charger card, you can do any of the following:

Call the customer care center at 04 601 9999
Use the HAYAK service
Email at customercare@dewa.gov.ae
Visit any DEWA Future Customer Happiness Centre

QR Code Charging

QR code scan has been introduced at 300 charging points across Dubai by DEWA. The feature enables EV Green Charger customers to charge their cars conveniently using DEWA Smart App. As it is available on Apple, Android and Huawei AppGallery.

Timings of DEWA EV Green Chargers

Every day between 07:30 am and midnight, there are chargers available at Customer Happiness Centers. Especially, operating under the “Green Chargers” program initiated by DEWA. Nevertheless, other electric car charging stations located in petrol pumps and public locations operate on a 24-hour basis.

Related Article: Top Electric cars in Dubai

Electric Car Charging Cost in Dubai

Smart Dubai Initiative installed these charging stations which aim at achieving sustainable development in these areas:

Registered Users

No session fees. Instead, users receive a monthly bill from DEWA at a rate of AED 0.29 fils per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Guest Mode (Non-Registered Users)

Charges are as follows including VAT5%.

Wall Box/Public Charger

30 minutes: AED 3.35
60 minutes: AED 6.7
90 minutes: AED 10.05
120 minutes: AED 13.4

Fast Charger

30 minutes: AED 6.55
60 minutes: AED 13.09

Ultra-Fast Charger

30 minutes: AED 22.84
60 minutes: AED 45.68

Public Charging Costs

There are different Public or fast charging network costs across UAE depending on location. Some locations are free while others charge between Dhs0.50 – Dhs1.00 per kwh.

Costing a 2024 Tesla Model 3 in the UAE

Let us consider the model with 82kWh Long-Range AWD.

Charging Type | Time | Power | Costs

Home Charging (0 to 100%) | 6 hours 15 min | 11 kW | AED 37.88
DC Fast Charging (0 to 80%) |30 min|150 kW|34.65 AED

The maximum mileage of a fully charged 2024 Tesla Model is approximately rated at about 629 km. Although, in reality it would last for around five hundred kilometers per charge. It would cost around 0.075 AED per km using a home charger. 0.086 AED per km using a DC fast charger of up to 150 kW.

Using Charging Stations

Typically, there could be several steps involved when using a charging station. Depending whether one is operating it or any other provider does:

Identify Station Type

Ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s charging port (AC or DC).

Authentication

Register with the station operator or use an app designed. Specifically, for such tasks to initiate the power transfer process.

Plug in

Attach your charging cable to both the station and your vehicle at once.

Monitor and Pay

Track session duration and cost that can be shown on screen of the energy outlet itself or through application.

Color Coded Indicators for Charging Statuses

Green Light: Indicates a ‘READY’ system.

Blue Light: Indicates ‘IN PROCESS’ charging.

Red and Yellow Lights: Both of them mean an ‘ERROR’.

Time Taken to Complete Charge the Electric Vehicle

The total time taken to charge an electric vehicle fully varies depending on several factors. Such as the car model, battery capacity, and type of charging station. It can be done anywhere from 1 hour to 8 hours, depending on several factors. On average, most electric vehicles take eight hours or less for full charge.

However, it is best not to let the battery drain completely before recharging it. Because deep discharges happen often reducing life expectancy of a battery. Instead, frequent short charges that take place between use help maintain battery health over time.

Key EV Charging Locations in Dubai

Major Charging Hubs

Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is one of the major electric vehicle (EV) charging hub sites in the city. Where there are multiple chargers located within parking areas at shopping centers around town. The mall offers free EV charging with both Tesla Destination Chargers available.

Dubai International Airport

Dubai International Airport provides EV charging facilities at their parking spaces. It accommodates travelers who would like to recharge their vehicles while they are away from home.

Business Bay

Another important location where people can find EV charging stations is the Business Bay area.

Public Places with Charging Facilities

Shopping Malls

Besides these central hubs, other public locations in Dubai provide this service. It includes shopping malls such as Mall of Emirates, Dubai Outlet Mall and Dubai Festival City Mall. These have such services for their clients namely charge points and compasses. Through which customers may access power supply for their vehicles.

Petrol Stations

These include certain petrol stations owned by ENOC or ADNOC providers. They have fast charging options for electric cars as well.

Residential Complexes

Also, some residential complexes in Dubai have private charging stations for their residents. Such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Downtown Dubai.

Benefits and Incentives for EV Owners in Dubai

Free Parking

Dubai’s EV owners can take advantage of parking zones dedicated to electric vehicles where they can park for free. This includes parking at shopping malls, government buildings and other public facilities.

No Salik Toll Charges

Salik-powered Road tolls are not charged to registered electric vehicle owners in Dubai. Thus, making it a huge saving for the inhabitants who constantly use tolled roads within the cityscape.

Reduced Registration Fees

In addition, e-vehicle owners do get discounted fees on their cars’ registrations as well as renewals. This makes owning an electric car cheaper than one could think about.

Financial Incentives

This is including price cuts on electricity rates used for charging. Moreover, get rebates for installation of home charging stations given by DWETL to individuals possessing e-vehicles.

Tips for Optimal Charging

Whenever possible, charge your EV during off-peak hours. So that you don’t spend too long waiting in lines at charging stations or enjoy lower electricity prices.
If you’re pressed with time and need immediate access back onto the road quickly then go ahead and use rapid chargers. So, you could top up your battery quickly.
All future trips should be planned according to the reliable and convenient recharging spots all along your trip. Especially, when going on longer journeys.
You should download the appropriate mobile apps to locate charging points.
Consider putting up a station in your household to plug-in the car overnight. Thus, leading to its full charge each morning when you wake up.
Keep track of new developments concerning EV infrastructure. So, to maximize the benefits of having an electric vehicle.

The Future of EV Charging in the UAE

This is driven by a promise to render possible an easy transition to sustainable electric mobility. It focuses on quick charging technologies and wider accessibility.

Owning an EV in the UAE

As prospective owners of electric cars, you can now plan your trips with confidence. As charging stations are increasingly becoming available. To fully enjoy your time behind the wheel, use the above resources to maximize your experience on the electrical road. While embracing a cleaner future for transportation!

Top Electric Vehicles in UAE

In UAE different types of electric vehicles are highly recognized and they include:

Tesla Model S
Mercedes-Benz EQC
Audi e-Tron
Renault ZOE
Jaguar I-Pace
Chevrolet Bolt EV
Tesla Model 3
BMW iXDrive50
Tesla Model X
Hyundai Kona Electric
MG ZS EV

Conclusion

Dubai’s rapid growth in terms of the infrastructure for EVs is proof enough that it is doing its best. DEWA’s Green Chargers as well as a growing network of public and fast chargers are best resources for EV drivers. In addition, adopting electric vehicles not only promotes environmental conservation. But also offers real benefits such as reduced fuel costs and maintenance expenses. Have the best time driving your EV in Dubai.