Electric Vehicle Road Trip in Dubai: Luxury Embraces Sustainability

Dubai is a destination where driving is the most convenient mode of transportation and an ideal way to explore its numerous attractions. This is especially true for families planning a road trip; there’s no better option than hitting the road in this vibrant city known for offering an enjoyable shopping and desert safari experience.

For those seeking a greener travel option, Dubai has a rapidly growing electric vehicle market. If you're looking to plan your EV road trip in Dubai, this guide will help you ensure you have the essential details and insights you need before applying for your International Driving Permit (IDP).

Dubai is often synonymous with luxury, but the city is also making significant efforts toward sustainability. One of the most impactful ways it does this is through adopting electric vehicles (EVs). As the UAE embraces eco-friendly transportation, Dubai is also committed to reducing its carbon emissions.

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has been at the forefront of this movement through its EV Green Charger initiative, which aims to create a comprehensive network of charging stations across the emirate. Since its launch in 2015, the city has seen remarkable growth, with a 59% increase in charging sessions reported in 2023 alone. By the end of 2023, Dubai had registered approximately 25,929 electric vehicles, a substantial rise from 14 EVs in 2015.

On a national level, the UAE is actively working towards making electric vehicles a significant part of its transportation landscape. The government has set ambitious targets under the National Electric Vehicles Policy and Global EV Market, aiming for electric vehicles to account for 50% of total commercial vehicles and 70% of public buses by 2050. There are over 620 charging stations across the UAE, with plans for extensive expansion to support the growing demand for electric vehicles.

Dubai's charging infrastructure is evolving to meet the demands of increasing electric vehicles on the road.

DEWA has installed over 400 Green Charging Stations across Dubai, translating to around 740 charge points, as many chargers feature dual outlets. These stations are located in various accessible places, including:

• Major shopping malls (e.g., The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates)
• Hotels (e.g., Armani Hotel Burj Khalifa)
• Public parks and recreational areas
• Key transport hubs

Dubai also offers several types of EV charging stations:

• Public Chargers (Wall Box): These are typically 22 kW AC chargers that can fully charge an EV in approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on the vehicle's battery capacity. They are commonly found in public parking areas and shopping centers.
• Fast Chargers: Available in two variants—43 kW AC and 50 kW DC—these chargers can provide an 80% charge in about 20 to 45 minutes. Fast chargers are strategically located at petrol stations and major public areas, making them convenient for quick stops.
• Ultra-Fast Chargers: These are designed for rapid charging, typically within 30 minutes.

With diverse options ranging from slow public chargers to ultra-fast charging stations, EV owners have convenient access to power their vehicles throughout the city.

When considering a road trip in Dubai, one important question is: “Will renting an electric vehicle (EV) help me cut costs, especially in a city where fuel prices are relatively low?” While it’s true that Dubai is known for its affordable fuel, renting an electric vehicle can still offer significant savings and benefits worth exploring.

Renting an electric vehicle in Dubai involves higher initial rental costs than traditional gasoline-powered cars. For instance, rental prices for electric vehicles can range from AED 200 to AED 600 (approximately US$55 to US$165) per day, depending on the model and rental duration.

In contrast, renting a standard sedan may cost around AED 150 to AED 400 (about US$40 to US$110) per day. This difference is due to the higher purchase price and depreciation rates associated with electric vehicles.

The new fee structure, implemented by the UAE Cabinet, sets specific rates for charging electric vehicles at public stations. Starting September 2024, express charging will cost a minimum of AED 1.20 + VAT per kWh, while slow charging will be priced at AED 0.70 + VAT per kWh. This move is designed to increase accessibility to EV chargers and improve the overall charging experience by reducing congestion at popular stations.

The unified pricing structure is intended for all EV users in public areas, meaning residents and visitors will be subject to these fees when using public charging stations. This inclusivity ensures that tourists driving rented electric vehicles can enjoy the benefits of a standardized pricing model.

Dubai is an exciting destination for electric vehicle (EV) road trips. With the increasing number of charging stations, travelers can explore these routes more confidently with an International Driving Permit:

This route, covering approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles), takes you to the landscapes of Al Ain. It is known as the "Garden City" and is home to Jebel Hafeet and Al Ain Oasis.

Key Stops:

• Dubai Marina: Start your journey at this renowned waterfront area, where you can enjoy dining and shopping.
• The Palm Jumeirah: Stop by for stunning views and perhaps a visit to one of the luxury resorts.
• Hatta: A picturesque town surrounded by mountains, perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Charging stations are available at The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates and are equipped with fast chargers. Al Ain has several charging stations, including those at well-known hotels like the Hilton Al Ain, which offer both standard and fast charging options.

This route takes you along the scenic East Coast of the UAE, leading to Fujairah, known for its beautiful beaches and mountainous landscapes. The distance is about 150 kilometers (93 miles), offering breathtaking views.

Key Stops:

• Sharjah: Visit the Sharjah Arts Museum or the Al Noor Mosque.
• Khor Fakkan: A lovely coastal town perfect for a beach break or water activities.

Fujairah City Center offers multiple charging points with fast chargers available. Along this route, several ENOC stations also provide fast charging options, ensuring you can recharge conveniently during your journey.

This route leads to Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE, in Ras Al Khaimah. The drive is approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) and features stunning mountain scenery.

Key Stops:

• Ras Al Khaimah: Explore local heritage sites or enjoy adventure activities like zip-lining on Jebel Jais.
• Al Hamra Village: A charming coastal community where you can relax before heading up the mountain.

RAK Mall in Ras Al Khaimah has several charging stations available. Jebel Jais Visitor is also equipped with charging facilities for visitors looking to explore the area.

A classic road trip option, this route connects two major cities in the UAE—Dubai and Abu Dhabi—covering about 140 kilometers (87 miles). It’s perfect for travelers interested in experiencing both urban landscapes.

Key Stops:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A must-visit architectural marvel in Abu Dhabi.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: An impressive museum showcasing art from around the world.

The Abu Dhabi Mall features multiple charging stations with fast chargers available. Along the highway between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, several ADNOC stations also offer convenient charging options.

In Dubai, travelers can easily locate charging stations using the DEWA Smart App, ChargeMap, and PlugShare app.

Dubai is becoming a popular hub for electric vehicle (EV) rentals. Travelers looking to explore the city can consider several reputable car rental agencies that offer a range of electric vehicles:

Hertz tops leads the way with its "Drive Green" package, allowing customers to rent hybrid and fully electric vehicles. They focus on providing a cleaner, greener option for travelers who want to minimize their environmental impact.

Renty.ae is an online platform that offers a variety of electric vehicles for rent, catering to both short-term and long-term needs. They focus on providing an easy rental experience with competitive pricing for luxury and economy cars.

UAEdriving is a prominent car rental service in Dubai that offers a premium chauffeur service for those seeking a hassle-free travel experience. They offer various models, including Tesla and Nissan Leaf, ensuring customers can find an EV that suits their needs.

As an established brand, Europcar offers quality assurance and customer support, extending to the selection of electric vehicles. They provide flexible rental options for travelers renting EVs in Dubai.

OneClickDrive is a leading car rental platform in Dubai that offers a comprehensive selection of vehicles, including electric cars. With over 2,000 verified cars available for rent across Dubai and more than 20 cities, OneClickDrive provides many options.

As you plan your next holiday in Dubai, consider an electric vehicle road trip as a way to explore this city’s attractions. Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) will further enhance your journey, ensuring you're well-prepared for car rental and checkpoints. With a wealth of resources available, including charging stations and apps to locate them, an eco-friendly journey in Dubai has never been easier.