5 Facts About Electric Cars in Dubai to Know

Electric vehicles (EVs) are the new stars on the UAE roads. Drivers in the country are increasingly choosing these vehicles for environmental benefits and new-age technologies. The UAE government has strategies to increase the use of EVs to reduce the use of fossil fuels and improve air quality. In this article, we mention interesting facts about electric cars in UAE and Dubai, a state known for its diverse car culture.

1. The Number of EV Charging Stations Is Growing in Dubai

Driving an electric car is becoming more convenient with the expanding network of charging infrastructure in the UAE. In Dubai, the installation of chargers is a part of the EV Green Charger Initiative initiated by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in 2015. From 2015 until December 31, 2021, registered EV owners could charge their vehicles for free to promote sustainability and smart city development. After this period, DEWA introduced tariffs for EV charging. As of 2024, charging stations are installed in parking lots around the city, including the airport, hotels, shopping malls, and other public and private locations. DEWA has partnered with Dubai's leading provider of parking lots, Parkin, to install charging stations in prime locations maintained by the company. EV drivers can easily find the nearest stations and check prices through live maps, including Google Maps.

2. UAE Ranks 7th in the World in Electric Car Readiness

The United Arab Emirates is at the forefront of EV adoption. According to the Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index, the country is the first in the Middle East and seventh globally. This evaluation is based on several factors, including customers' likelihood to buy electric cars, the public charging infrastructure, and government policies. 82% of UAE residents said they are willing to buy an electric car as their new car. At the same time, roadside assistance is becoming more available due to trained staff and specialized services. There's help for any kind of issue, whether low battery or climate control. In the case of renting a car, it's recommended to contact the agency for help.

3. UAE Aims for 50% of Cars on the Road to Be Electric

Reducing carbon emissions takes a central role in the UAE government's strategies. Under the National Electric Vehicles Policy, the UAE targets to increase the share of electric cars in the country by up to 50%. In addition, cities, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, have separate strategies. According to the Green Mobility Strategy of Dubai, the city is expected to have around 42,000 electric cars by 2030. The capital Abu Dhabi, invests in clean energy sources and the growth of a charging network for electric cars. Compared to traditional vehicles with fuel engines, EVs operate using electricity which can be generated from resources that don't harm the environment. Those include renewable energy such as solar, wind or hydroelectric power with the generated electricity being stored in the cars' batteries.

4. Electric Car Battery Cooling Systems Are Optimized for UAE's Weather

The range anxiety for first-time electric car drivers is real. This term describes the fear that an EV won't perform as intended because of insufficient battery charge. In countries, like UAE with extreme weather conditions, this seems a bigger issue as there's an increased need to use the cooling system, which will further consume energy. However, with the broad charging network and developments in charging technologies allowing fast charging the fear of empty battery among drivers is fading away. Besides, car manufacturers optimize the vehicles' battery systems according to the needs of different countries by using advanced systems of climate regulation and specific chemistry elements, for example, lithium that are more tolerant of hot weather. Actually, EVs are pretty adaptable to changing climate conditions. In April 2024, during the Dubai flood, some EVs kept going, cutting through the water. Anyway, this practice is not recommended to repeat, as if water penetrates into the car it can cause damage and malfunction.

5. There Are Parking Advantages and Special Offers for Electric Cars in UAE

Drivers of EVs in the UAE have several unique advantages. For example, there are parking spots in Dubai designed specially for electric cars and available for free for a limited time. These spots are usually painted in green to stand out. If a non-EV car occupies one of the EV spots, the driver will be fined. In addition, insurance companies, rental agencies, and banks may offer special offers for electric car deals.

Advantages of Driving Electric Cars

Electric vehicles represent the future of sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation. As concerns about climate change and air pollution continue to grow, the transition to electric vehicles is becoming an increasingly important priority for governments, automakers, and consumers. With their zero emissions, lower operating costs, and ever-improving range and performance, electric vehicles offer a viable and attractive alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

Apart from reducing carbon footprint, EVs offer:

• Quieter operation: Electric motors are much quieter than internal combustion engines, resulting in a more silent driving experience.

• Smooth acceleration: Driving EVs is fun due to their responsiveness, and instant torque, which provides impressive acceleration. Models such as Tesla X and Porsche Taycan accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 2 seconds and can compete with sports cars.

• Cost savings: Electric cars are profitable due to using cheaper electricity compared to petrol. Both owners and renters benefit from this.

• Stand-out exteriors: The EV market is quite large offering models for every taste. Among them, you'll find new EVs with futuristic designs or all-electrified classic models.

Renting an Electric Vehicle in Dubai

Do you want to find out if an electric car meets your driving needs, or do you need one for your Dubai trips? Renting will cover your needs. Use rent-cars.ae to compare multiple offers from trusted car rental agencies and find the one for you. The platform connects you with car owners, offering a convenient way to find and book a car in one place. Among the electric cars rent-cars.ae features are:

• Tesla cars - the current leader in the EV market with popular models such as the Model 3, Model X, Model S, and Model Y

• Porsche Taycan - an all-electric premium sports luxury sedan. It features blistering acceleration and impressive charging speed.

• Audi cars - a range of EVs that combine luxury, performance, and advanced technology. Models include the e-tron and e-tron Sportback SUVs, the e-tron GT performance sedan, and the Q4 e-tron compact SUV.

• BMW i - the sub-brand consists of fully electric and plug-in hybrid models. In these cars, BMW emphasizes its advanced electric motors combined with luxurious arrangements and driving dynamics.

• Mercedes-Benz's EQS models represent the brand's vision of sustainable yet luxurious electric mobility. The units set a new standard for electric luxury cars, underscoring Mercedes-Benz's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

• Renault Megane E-Tech - a compact electric hatchback that blends style, practicality and advanced technology.

• GMC Hummer EV - a powerful, all-electric super pickup. It marks GMC's bold return to the market with a focus on electric performance and off-road prowess.

• Kia EV9 is -an all-electric three-row SUV that combines bold styling, advanced technology and family comfort.

Discover the mentioned models and beyond in the rent-cars.ae catalog. We constantly update our fleet with new cars and offers.

How to Rent an EV in Dubai With rent-cars.ae

Booking an electric vehicle with rent-cars.ae is a straightforward process with a minimum number of documents. Depending on your residency status, these may include a driver's license, ID, International Driving Permit, and visa. There are just a few easy steps to book a car.

• Choose the EV you want to rent: Browse the catalog and narrow down your choice by applying filters. 

• Check out the requirements: View the requirements such as the driver’s minimum age and years of experience set by the rental company on the model’s page. Terms vary across offers. 

• Send your request: Enter your rental dates and delivery location. Then click "Continue" to fill out the form and send us your booking request. We will connect you with the car rental and arrange the whole process from documentation to delivery. 

Rent an EV in Dubai at favorable conditions with Rent-Cars. Feel free to contact us 24/7 with any questions you have.

FAQ

What are the types of electric cars?

Electric cars differ based on their architecture and working mechanism. The main categories EVs fall into are:

• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): This type of car is powered entirely by rechargeable battery packs and has no internal combustion engine. Examples include the Tesla Model S, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and BMW i3.

• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): These vehicles have both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, powered by a rechargeable battery pack. They can run on electric power for a limited range (usually 20-50 miles) and then switch to the gasoline engine for longer distances. Examples include the Toyota Prius Prime, Chevrolet Volt, and Ford Fusion Energi.

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): These cars have both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, but the electric motor is powered by a battery that is charged through regenerative braking and the gasoline engine, not by plugging in. Examples include the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight.

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

The charging time depends on the model and the type of charger you're using. It can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours.

How can I rent an electric car in the UAE?

Check out multiple offers from EV car dealers on rent-cars.ae. Find the best option by using filters, and send your booking request easily.

What are the leading brands in electric car production?

Top EV makers include Tesla, Hyundai, Nissan, Chevrolet, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Kia, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and others.