Dubai Accelerates Green Mobility with New EV Charging Stations

Dubai is set to enhance its electric vehicle infrastructure with the installation of new charging stations in the first quarter of 2025. This initiative results from a collaboration between the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority and Parkin Company PJSC , the emirate’s largest provider of paid public parking facilities and services.

The new charging stations will operate on alternating current with a capacity of 22 kilowatts each, accommodating two vehicles simultaneously. They will be strategically located across key parking sites managed by Parkin, specifically in on-street parking zones A and C. These areas have been selected to serve high-density residential communities that currently lack sufficient EV charging facilities.

To streamline the user experience, customers will be able to pay both the EV charging tariff and the parking fee in a single transaction using Parkin’s app and linked digital wallet. This integration aims to simplify the process for EV owners, encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles across the city.

DEWA’s Managing Director and CEO, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, highlighted the authority’s commitment to sustainable transportation, stating that the expansion of EV charging infrastructure is a pivotal component of Dubai’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote green mobility.

Since the launch of the EV Green Charger initiative in 2015, DEWA has installed over 400 charging stations across Dubai, collectively capable of serving around 740 electric vehicles simultaneously. The current expansion plan aims to increase the total number of charging stations to over 1,000 by the end of 2025, reflecting the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation options in the emirate.

Parkin’s CEO, Ahmed Al Suwaidi, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with DEWA, noting that integrating EV charging stations into Parkin’s facilities aligns with the company’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s sustainability goals. He emphasized that the initiative not only provides convenience for EV users but also enhances the overall efficiency and revenue potential of parking operations.

The United Arab Emirates as a whole is making significant strides toward sustainable urban mobility. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has announced plans to install over 500 EV charging stations nationwide by the end of 2025, underscoring the country’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions and supporting clean transportation.

In addition to government efforts, private companies are also contributing to the development of EV infrastructure. For instance, CAFU, an Emirati energy delivery company, has expanded its services to include mobile EV charging solutions. In 2023, CAFU launched a prototype mobile EV charging vehicle in Canada, equipped with a charging station and batteries, demonstrating the company’s commitment to innovative energy solutions.

Careem, a ride-hailing company operating in the UAE, has introduced eco-friendly rides and expanded its EV fleet. In 2023, during the COP28 summit, Careem launched ‘Eco-friendly’ rides in partnership with CarbonSifr to support carbon removal projects in the UAE and the wider region. The initiative offset more than 200 tonnes of CO2e in under three months, reflecting the company’s dedication to sustainability.

The expansion of EV charging infrastructure is expected to have a positive impact on the adoption of electric vehicles in Dubai. By providing more accessible and convenient charging options, the initiative addresses one of the primary concerns of potential EV buyers: the availability of charging stations. This development is anticipated to encourage more residents to consider electric vehicles as a viable alternative to traditional combustion-engine cars.

The integration of EV charging stations into existing parking facilities maximizes the utility of urban spaces. By combining parking and charging services, the initiative offers a practical solution to space constraints in densely populated areas, ensuring that the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with the evolving needs of its residents.

Dubai’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond EV infrastructure. The city has been actively promoting various green initiatives, including the development of renewable energy projects, the implementation of energy-efficient building codes, and the expansion of public transportation networks. These efforts are aligned with the UAE’s broader vision of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The collaboration between DEWA and Parkin exemplifies the synergy between public and private sectors in advancing sustainable urban development. By leveraging their respective strengths, both entities are contributing to the creation of a resilient and eco-friendly urban environment that benefits all residents.