How Much Does It Cost to Charge an EV in the UAE?

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common in the UAE, understanding how much it costs to charge them is now an important part of the overall EV ownership experience. As of 2024, the UAE has introduced a unified pricing model for charging, ensuring consistency and transparency across all Emirates. The regulated pricing system aligns with the country’s goal of promoting widespread EV adoption and sustainable mobility.

UAE National EV Charging Tariffs

In 2024, the UAE government introduced Cabinet Resolution No. (81) of 2024 Concerning the Fee of the Unified Recharge Service for the Recharge of Electric Vehicles in the State, which sets a unified minimum fee for all public EV charging stations. This new regulation ended the earlier period of free charging in Dubai and established a standard pricing structure for the entire country.

EV Charging Stations UAE Prices

The unified rates now apply across public charging networks managed by DEWA in Dubai and TAQA Distribution in Abu Dhabi are:

Charging Type Base Rate (AED per kWh) Plus 5% VAT Effective Rate (AED per kWh)
AC (Slow/Level 2) 0.7 0.035 0.735
DC (Fast/Express) 1.2 0.06 1.26

Dubai EV Charging Cost

cost of charging your EV in Dubai with DEWA green charger
DEWA Green Charger network follows regulated EV charging price per unit in the UAE

Public charging in Dubai is managed by DEWA through its Green Charger network. Registered users pay per kWh. Similarly, guest users can access chargers through QR codes for time-based sessions.

To register, users pay:

  • AED 500 refundable security deposit
  • AED 20 delivery fee for the Green Charger card

Registered users benefit from the per-kWh billing system, which is 0.735 AED per kWh for AC charging. The per-kWh method is more efficient than time-based charging for regular EV drivers.

Idle or overstay fees apply if a vehicle remains plugged in after charging is complete to encourage users to vacate the charger promptly. The fee is approximately AED 0.5 per minute after a short grace period.

Abu Dhabi Electric Vehicle Charging Cost UAE

In Abu Dhabi, charging regulation is handled by the TAQA Distribution. EV owners must register their home chargers with the utility to receive accurate billing.

There are two billing phases:

  • Before sub-meter installation: AED 92 flat monthly fee
  • After sub-meter installation: Approximately 0.30 AED per kWh based on consumption

Compared with public charging, home users pay nearly half the cost per kWh.

EV Home Charging Cost in the UAE

Charging your EV at home is the most affordable method in the country. Residential billing in Dubai follows DEWA’s slab system:

Monthly Use (kWh) Rate (AED/kWh)
0–2000 0.23
2001–4000 0.28
4001–6000 0.32
6001+ 0.38

Adding fuel surcharge and VAT, the EV charging rates in the UAE come to roughly 0.40 to 0.45 AED per kWh for most households. It is far affordable than public rates.

This price difference means charging a 60 kWh EV battery costs about AED 24 at home in Dubai or AED 18 in Abu Dhabi. In comparison, the rates for charging a similar capacity EV battery at public chargers are around AED 44 at a public AC charger and AED 76 at a fast DC station.

Tesla Supercharger Fees in the UAE

Tesla charging stations in the UAE also have a streamlined fee structure, which may vary depending on the peak hours. The fees include:

Condition Idle Fee (per minute) Station ≥ 100% Occupied Notes
Normal (≥ 50% stalls occupied) AED 2.00 N/A Idle fees begin once the Supercharger has half its stalls in use
Fully occupied (100% busy) AED 4.00 Yes Idle fees double when the station is at full capacity

FAQs

What is the Cost to Charge an Electric Car in the UAE in 2025?

Based on the average tariff rates, here is the summarised breakdown of the EV charging fees in the UAE.

Location / Method Rate (AED/kWh) Total Cost (AED) Charging Time
Home EV Charging in Abu Dhabi 0.3 18 8–10 hrs
Home EV Charging in Dubai 0.4 24 8–10 hrs
Public AC Charger (Slow) 0.735 44.1 3–8 hrs
Public DC Charger (Fast) 1.26 75.6 30–50 mins

Is EV charging free in Dubai?

No, free public charging has ended. DEWA now charges 0.735 AED per kWh for AC and 1.26 AED per kWh for DC charging. These prices are inclusive of VAT.

Is EV charging more affordable at home in the UAE?

Yes, home EV charging cost in the UAE is around 0.30–0.45 AED per kWh, significantly less than public rates.

What is the difference between home and fast charging costs in the UAE?

Home charging costs roughly 0.40 AED/kWh, while fast public charging costs about 1.26 AED per kWh.

The EV charging cost in the UAE is now standardised, which ensures fair and transparent pricing for all users. The country is playing an active role in the global mobility shift towards a carbon-neutral and sustainable future. There is also a comprehensive UAE National EV policy that aims at growing EV market share to 50% by 2050. 

Supported by a facilitating and expanding infrastructure, the number of new EVs for sale in the UAE is consistently increasing. 

Planning to switch to an EV? Stay connected with UAE’s leading car blog for insightful tips, updates on top-performing models and news on emerging market trends.



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