Is EV Charging Free in Dubai? Debunking the Myths

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates in the UAE, many businesses and fleet owners still ask the same question: Is EV charging free in Dubai?

It’s a common assumption—largely driven by early incentives—but the reality has evolved. Today’s EV charging ecosystem in Dubai is a blend of government-backed programs and commercial business models, each with its own access rules and pricing logic.

In this article, we’ll break down public charging policies, commercial network practices, and the current access landscape, so you can plan your infrastructure or fleet strategy with clarity.

The Green Charger Initiative: Where the “Free” Story Began

Launched by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Green Charger initiative was one of the region’s earliest efforts to incentivize EV adoption.

Here’s what it included:

• Free charging for registered EV users from 2017 to 2021

• Applied only to DEWA’s public charging network (Green Charger stations)

• Aimed at encouraging early EV adoption and testing grid capacity

However, this free service was discontinued in January 2022, with DEWA moving to a standard pricing model of AED 29 fils per kWh.

So, is EV charging free in Dubai today? Not anymore—at least not through DEWA.

DEWA’s Current Pricing and Access Rules

Today, DEWA operates over 350 Green Charger stations across Dubai, available in malls, government buildings, and public parking areas.

Key facts:

• Charging is no longer free

• Registered users are billed at AED 29 fils/kWh

• DEWA uses a prepaid digital wallet and RFID system for user access

• Real-time usage data and billing are available via the DEWA Smart App

Businesses planning to install public chargers in Dubai must also register with DEWA as a CPO (Charge Point Operator) and comply with its technical specifications.

Commercial Charging Hubs: A Growing Market

Beyond DEWA, Dubai is now home to several private EV charging networks. These companies operate on a commercial basis and have different pricing strategies depending on the location, charger type (AC vs. DC), and services offered.

Common operators:

• Shabik (CATEC) – Urban and residential zones

• GreenParking – Shopping malls and hospitality venues

• Emarat & ADNOC – Fuel stations with EV charging services

What do they offer?

• Pay-as-you-go models: AED 30–50 fils/kWh

• Idle fees for overstaying after full charge

• Bundled offers for loyalty programs or corporate fleets

So again—no, EV charging is generally not free in Dubai’s commercial ecosystem.

Private Access Points: When Charging Can Be Free

There are exceptions, especially within residential, corporate, or hospitality properties that offer EV charging as an amenity.

Examples of where it might be free:

• Hotels offering complimentary charging to guests

• Workplace charging in office towers

• Residential buildings offering “free” charging bundled into tenant fees

However, this free access is usually:

• Limited by time (e.g., 2 hours/day)

• Available only to specific user types (e.g., residents or staff)

• Monitored through RFID or mobile apps to avoid misuse

Who Gets Access to Public Charging in Dubai?

Public chargers—especially those operated by DEWA—require:

• Vehicle registration with DEWA

• A UAE license plate

• A valid user account on the DEWA Smart App

Fleet vehicles and corporate EVs must be tagged with the company’s commercial registration and vehicle ownership data. Non-registered vehicles cannot access DEWA’s charging stations.

For commercial providers, access varies. Some allow pay-per-use without registration, while others require membership or pre-registration through a mobile app or online portal.

EV Charging Access: Myths vs. Reality

Let’s break down a few common myths:

Final Takeaway: What Businesses Need to Know

If you’re managing a fleet, developing property, or setting up EV infrastructure in the UAE, it’s important to separate outdated assumptions from current realities.

What to do next:

• Plan for paid charging in your business or real estate model

• Explore DEWA’s Green Charger portal for CPO registration

• Evaluate private partnerships to co-invest in EV charging services

• Consider pricing models that align with your brand: free, bundled, or metered