Middle East EV Infrastructure, UAE EV Charging, Saudi Arabia EV Adoption
February 5, 2025

Arabian lights - how the land of oil is gradually embracing the EV revolution

The Middle East, traditionally synonymous with vast oil reserves, now appears to be steering towards a sustainable, electric future. While its rich oil heritage has historically influenced transportation preferences, the region is witnessing a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are at the forefront of this transformation, investing heavily in EV infrastructure and implementing forward-thinking policies, while some surrounding countries are also investing in new charging infrastructure.

From bustling urban centers to expansive deserts, EV charging stations are becoming an integral part of the landscape, signaling a commitment to eMobility and a reduced reliance on fossil fuels. Let’s take a look at some of the leaders in the region.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) - pioneering the EV movement

The UAE stands at the forefront of the Middle East's eMobility revolution, driven by significant investments from both public and private sectors. The country's charging network is expanding rapidly, thanks to prominent CPOs and strong government initiatives.

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) last year issued the first two Independent Charge Point Operator (CPO) licenses for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Dubai to Tesla and UAEV. This milestone falls under DEWA’s comprehensive Regulatory and Licensing Framework for the development and operation of EV charging infrastructure across the Emirate, representing a significant step towards supporting green mobility and achieving Dubai’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Charge&Go, the electric mobility subsidiary of e&, has introduced the UAE’s fastest electric vehicle (EV) charger, the ABB Terra 360. This high-powered 360 kW charger is set to revolutionize EV charging by reducing charging times to just 10-15 minutes, enhancing the convenience and appeal of EVs in the UAE.

UAE EV charging is complemented by the government’s ambitious goals, aiming to establish a comprehensive network of charging stations to support the growing number of EVs on the road. Collaborations among charging point operators, utilities, and government agencies are essential to encourage faster growth in EV charging infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia - charging ahead with ambitious plans

Saudi Arabia EV adoption is increasing as the nation beginning to embrace the shift to eMobility, with companies like Electromin leading the charge. Electromin, a provider of end-to-end EV solutions, owns the largest network of EV charging stations across the kingdom, aiming to support the adoption of electric vehicles and contribute to the country's sustainability goals.

Tawal, a top-tier Saudi ICT infrastructure firm, has teamed up with Electromin to supercharge the nation's EV charging capabilities. This dynamic duo is set to electrify Saudi Arabia's roads, accelerating the shift to electric mobility

Adding to the momentum, EVIQ - a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC)—is rolling out over 5,000 fast chargers across 1,000 strategic locations by 2030, marking a significant leap in the kingdom's EV infrastructure

The Saudi government complements these efforts with ambitious goals, aiming to establish a robust EV infrastructure as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. This includes plans to increase the number of EV charging stations and promote the adoption of electric vehicles across the country.

Bahrain - Small nation, big steps in eMobility

Bahrain might be small, but when it comes to eMobility, it’s making some impressive moves. The Gulf nation is stepping up its EV charging game thanks to a strategic partnership between Kanoo Power Solutions (KPS) and ABB, the Swedish-Swiss engineering giant. This collaboration is set to expand Bahrain’s charging infrastructure and bring high-tech, fast-charging stations to life, a vital step toward the country’s 2060 carbon neutrality goal.

KPS, known for its expertise in power solutions, is working with ABB to deliver state-of-the-art chargers equipped with features like remote monitoring and diagnostics. This means not only faster and more reliable charging but also future-ready stations that can adapt to the growing EV market.

Israel - the genius of wireless EV charging

Israel is making significant strides in eMobility with Electreon's innovative wireless charging technology. Their system allows electric vehicles to charge seamlessly while driving or stationary, eliminating the need for traditional plug-in stations.

Electreon has partnered with the Dan Bus Company to implement wireless charging infrastructure for a fleet of 200 public buses in Tel Aviv. This large-scale deployment aims to reduce battery sizes and operational costs, showcasing the practical benefits of wireless charging in public transportation

The Road Ahead for the Middle East

The Middle East, long synonymous with oil wealth, is now showing real evidence of shifting gears towards an electrified future. With national charge point operators (CPOs) innovating and governments providing robust support, the region is poised to lead the charge in eMobility. As Middle East EV Infrastructure expands, EV drivers across the region can anticipate more accessible and faster charging options.

The region perhaps has a lot of catching up to do with their European counterparts, but things look set to accelerate considerably in the coming years.

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written by

Barry Henderson