Dubai, UAE – The UAE is spearheading the electric vehicle (EV) revolution in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, emerging as the largest EV market by volume in 2024 with nearly 24,000 units sold.
According to recent research, the UAE not only boasts rapid EV adoption but also exhibits the highest customer loyalty rates globally, with 94% of current EV owners intending to purchase another vehicle.
UAE drives EV market growth in GCC
The GCC region has seen its EV penetration double from 2% to 4% in just one year, signaling a swift transformation from early adoption to mainstream use. Leading this charge is the UAE, where consumer confidence in EV technology is particularly strong.
The country’s growing EV market is backed by government initiatives, private sector collaboration, and a comprehensive infrastructure network.
Daily usage among UAE EV owners
A striking 94% of UAE EV owners plan to buy another electric vehicle, a loyalty rate that ranks second globally only to China. This enthusiasm is supported by substantial usage patterns; nearly half of UAE EV drivers use their vehicles daily or almost daily, and approximately one-third clock over 20,000 kilometers annually. These figures parallel mature EV markets such as Norway and Germany, underscoring the UAE’s evolving automotive landscape.
Cost efficiency remains a primary motivator for EV adoption in the UAE, with 52% of buyers highlighting lower running and maintenance costs as a major factor. Additionally, sustainability is a key driver, with 47% of UAE buyers citing environmental concerns in line with national green agendas. Consumer satisfaction is high, with 79% of EV owners expressing strong affection for their battery electric vehicles.
Robust charging infrastructure
The UAE’s commitment to building a world-class EV infrastructure is evident in its high satisfaction rates, with 95% of users reporting positive charging experiences. Dubai currently offers more than 1,270 public charging points, facilitating easy access across the city.
Abu Dhabi is aggressively expanding its network, aiming to install 500 charging points by 2028 through a strategic partnership between ADNOC and TAQA.
Public sector initiatives have laid the foundation for the UAE’s EV success, but private companies are playing an increasingly vital role.
Organizations like Electromin and Al-Futtaim are driving the expansion of charging access and improving the overall user experience. Future growth strategies emphasize increasing the availability of fast chargers and enhancing digital tools to help users locate charging stations efficiently.
Looking ahead, the UAE is poised to continue its leadership in the EV market by focusing on fast charging infrastructure expansion, especially along highways, and by maintaining alignment with its Vision 2050 sustainability goals.
These efforts will further reduce carbon emissions and support the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
