The UAE has introduced mandatory EV charging fees from January 2025, marking a significant shift in the country's green mobility strategy. The move ends months of free public charging across UAEV stations and brings the UAE in line with a unified, paid infrastructure model under Cabinet Decision No. 81 of 2024.
New UAE EV Charging Fees: What Drivers Will Pay
Under the newly implemented tariffs, EV users are charged:
- AED 1.2 per kWh for DC (fast) chargers - AED 0.7 per kWh for AC (regular) chargers
Both rates are VAT-inclusive. The standardised fee structure is designed to ensure equal access, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability — aligned with the UAE's broader environmental commitments.
UAEV Chairman: "A Revolutionary Step"
Eng. Sharif Al Olama, Chairman of UAEV, described the change as a milestone for the country's transport sector.
"This is a revolutionary step for the UAE in terms of sustainable transportation," Al Olama said. "The introduction of standardised tariffs and the innovative solutions presented in the UAEV application demonstrate our focus on improving the experience of electric vehicle drivers and advancing the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategy."
UAEV App and 24/7 Support
To help EV owners navigate the new system, UAEV is launching a dedicated mobile application offering:
- Real-time charging station availability - Secure, in-app payment processing - Navigation to the nearest charging point
A 24/7 customer support centre will back the app, ensuring reliable assistance at any hour.
1,000 Charging Stations Across All Seven Emirates by 2030
UAEV is targeting a network of 1,000 charging stations by 2030, strategically placed across urban centres, highways, and transit terminals in all seven emirates. The rollout is designed to serve both intercity and intracity EV drivers, removing range anxiety as a barrier to adoption.
The expansion directly supports the UAE's goal of reducing carbon emissions and accelerating the shift to eco-friendly transport across the region.
Aligned With the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy
The standardised EV charging fees form part of a wider integrated charging ecosystem built on three principles: reliability, accessibility, and innovation. UAEV positions itself as a key enabler in the UAE's journey toward a green future, with the paid model providing a sustainable funding mechanism for continued network growth.
EV drivers in the UAE should expect ongoing infrastructure improvements and expanded service reach as the country scales its public charging network through 2030.
