Cost to Charge an EV in the UAE: Complete Guide
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular in the UAE thanks to government support and a push for green transport. If you're thinking about buying an EV or already own one, knowing the cost to charge it is key.
Why EV Charging Costs Matter in the UAE
Charging an EV in the UAE is cheaper than filling up a gas car, but costs vary by location, time, and charger type. The average EV uses about 15-20 kWh per 100 km. With electricity rates around 0.23-0.48 AED per kWh, a full charge might cost 10-50 AED, depending on your battery size.
Key factors that affect costs:
- Electricity Tariffs: Different in each emirate (e.g., Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi).
- Charger Type: Home chargers are slower but cheaper; public ones are faster but pricier.
- Time of Day: Some plans offer off-peak discounts.
- Battery Size: Bigger batteries (like in a Tesla Model Y) cost more to fill.
Home Charging Costs in the UAE
Charging at home is the most affordable way. You plug into a regular outlet or install a Level 2 charger (costs 2,000-5,000 AED to set up). Costs depend on your emirate's electricity provider.
Here's a breakdown:
Emirate |
Provider |
Tariff (AED/kWh) |
Example Cost for 50 kWh Charge (e.g., Full Tesla Model 3) |
|
Dubai |
DEWA |
0.23-0.48 (slab-based: lower for first 200 kWh/month) |
11.50-24.00 AED |
|
Abu Dhabi |
EtihadWE |
0.26-0.31 (green: 0.21 off-peak) |
13.00-15.50 AED (or 10.50 AED off-peak) |
|
Sharjah |
SEWA |
0.23-0.38 (tiered) |
11.50-19.00 AED |
|
Other Emirates |
FEWA/EtihadWE |
0.26-0.31 |
13.00-15.50 AED |
Notes:
- Slab-based means rates increase with usage. Stay under 400 kWh/month for lower rates.
- Off-peak hours (10 PM-8 AM) can save 20-30%.
- A full charge for a 60 kWh battery might take 8-10 hours on a home charger.
To calculate your cost: Multiply battery size (kWh) by tariff rate. For example, a 50 kWh charge at 0.30 AED/kWh = 15 AED.
Public Charging Costs in the UAE
Public chargers are convenient for long trips. Providers like DEWA's EV Green Charger, Urban, and Tesla Superchargers offer DC fast charging (up to 350 kW) for quick top-ups.
Public charging rates:
Provider/Network |
Type |
Cost (AED/kWh or per session) |
Locations |
|
DEWA Green Charger |
AC (Slow) |
0.29 AED/kWh |
Dubai malls, parks |
|
DEWA Green Charger |
DC (Fast) |
0.58 AED/kWh + parking fees |
Highways, stations |
|
EtihadWE |
AC/DC |
0.80-1.20 AED/kWh |
Abu Dhabi airports, hotels |
|
Urban Chargers |
Fast DC |
1.00-1.50 AED/kWh |
Nationwide |
|
Tesla Supercharger |
DC Superfast |
1.20 AED/kWh (peak), app-based |
Dubai, Abu Dhabi |
Notes:
- Sessions might have a minimum fee (5-10 AED) or idle charges.
- Free charging at some malls like Dubai Mall (limited time).
- Apps like PlugShare or DEWA's app help find stations and check prices.
Comparing Home vs. Public Charging
Aspect |
Home Charging |
Public Charging |
|
Cost per kWh |
0.23-0.48 AED |
0.58-1.50 AED |
|
Speed |
4-10 hours full charge |
30-60 mins for 80% |
|
Convenience |
Anytime at home |
On-the-go, but wait times |
|
Total for 300 km |
10-20 AED |
25-50 AED |
Tips to Save on EV Charging in the UAE
- Charge Off-Peak: Use timers for nights when rates drop.
- Go Green: EtihadWE's green tariff rewards eco-friendly users.
- Install Smart Chargers: Apps track usage and optimize costs.
- Government Perks: Free registration and parking for EVs in Dubai.
- Battery Care: Avoid full charges daily; 80% is enough for most.
FAQs
What is the average cost to fully charge an EV in the UAE?
It depends on battery size, but for a 60 kWh EV, expect 14-29 AED at home or 35-72 AED public.
Is EV charging free in the UAE?
Some spots, like malls, offer free slow charging, but most public stations charge per kWh. DEWA had free charging until 2021, but now it's paid.
How do I find EV chargers in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Use apps like DEWA EV, EtihadWE, or PlugShare. There are over 300 in Dubai alone.
Are electricity rates for EVs different in the UAE?
No special EV rates yet, but green tariffs help. Watch for updates as EV adoption grows.
Can I charge my EV with solar power in the UAE?
Yes! Net metering lets you sell excess solar back, cutting costs to near zero. Check DEWA's Shams Dubai program.
