Dubai's skyline isn't the only thing evolving rapidly; its commitment to green mobility is transforming how we move around the city, with electric vehicles (EVs) becoming an increasingly common sight . Leading this charge is the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and its pioneering EV Green Charger initiative, the backbone of the public charging network . Thinking about joining the EV revolution or just visiting? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about finding, accessing, using, and paying for DEWA's public chargers, making your electric journey in Dubai smooth and simple . Let's get you powered up. Finding DEWA EV Green Chargers Across Dubai
Knowing where to find a charge point is half the battle, right? Thankfully, locating DEWA EV Green Chargers is pretty straightforward. The most reliable way is using the DEWA Smart App, which handily shows real-time availability, charger types, and precise locations . You can also check the DEWA website for a map and station details . Other platforms like the DubaiNow app, PlugShare, and even standard map services often list DEWA stations too . These chargers are strategically placed where you need them – think major shopping malls like Dubai Mall, petrol stations, public parking areas, residential communities, and even along highways, ensuring you're rarely far from a top-up . Access Method 1: Registering for a DEWA EV Green Charger Account
So, why register for an account? Convenience is key. Registered users get an EV Green Charger card and enjoy integrated billing, meaning charging costs simply appear on their monthly DEWA utility bill . Anyone owning an EV in Dubai can register, regardless of whether they are already a DEWA customer . Often, if you register your EV with Dubai's RTA, DEWA automatically creates an account for you and sends instructions for activation . If you need to register manually, you have options. You can use the DEWA website or Smart App, logging in with your DEWA ID or UAE Pass, navigating to the EV section, and filling in your details . Alternatively, the DubaiNow app (using UAE Pass) also offers EV registration . Prefer face-to-face? You can visit a DEWA Customer Happiness Centre . You'll typically need your Emirates ID and vehicle license (Mulkiya), ensuring the name matches across all documents . What about costs? There's a refundable security deposit of AED 500 for individuals and non-commercial businesses (government entities are exempt) . You'll also pay a one-time card delivery fee of AED 20 plus VAT . Once registered, your card usually arrives via courier within three working days, though you can collect it immediately if you register in person at a Customer Happiness Centre . Managing your card – like requesting a replacement for a lost one (which incurs a fee) or deactivating it – can be done online through the DEWA portal or app . Access Method 2: Using DEWA Chargers as a Guest (QR Code)
Don't have an EV Green Charger account? No problem. DEWA offers a convenient guest access option perfect for tourists, infrequent users, or anyone needing a quick charge without registration . It’s surprisingly simple. Just look for the QR code displayed prominently on the charging station . Here’s how it works, step-by-step:
Scan the QR code using your smartphone's camera or directly within the DEWA Smart App by selecting the 'proceed as guest' option . You'll be directed to a web page or prompted within the app to follow instructions, which usually involve providing some basic information and completing a verification step . Next, you select how long you want the charging session to last from the options provided . You'll then need to make an upfront payment based on the estimated cost for your selected duration; this amount is typically held temporarily on your card . Once payment is confirmed, charging begins! It will automatically stop when your chosen time runs out . The final charge is calculated based on your actual electricity consumption during the session, and you'll receive a summary and invoice . Easy peasy. How to Charge Your EV at a DEWA Station
Okay, you've found a station and figured out access. How do you actually start the juice flowing? For registered users, simply scan your EV Green Charger card on the station's reader or initiate the session using the DEWA app after selecting the specific charger . If you're using the guest QR code method, charging starts after you complete the payment steps outlined above . Next, connect the charger to your car. Grab the appropriate cable – most public AC chargers in Dubai use the standard Type 2 socket – and plug it firmly into your vehicle's charging port . Charging should commence automatically. Once you've got the charge you need, or the session ends, registered users need to scan their card or use the app again to stop the flow of electricity . For guest users, the session stops automatically when the pre-paid duration expires . Finally, just unplug the cable from your car and, ideally, return it neatly to the station holder . Understanding DEWA Charger Types and Speeds
Not all chargers are created equal! DEWA offers different types to suit various needs, primarily differing in speed, which depends on whether they supply Alternating Current (AC) or Direct Current (DC) . AC charging uses your car's onboard converter and is generally slower, while DC charging bypasses this, delivering power directly to the battery for much faster speeds . Here’s a quick rundown of the common DEWA public charger types you'll encounter:
Public Charger (AC): These typically offer two 22 kW AC outlets using Type 2 sockets . They provide moderate charging speeds, often taking 2-4 hours for a significant top-up, making them suitable for locations like malls or parks where you might park for a while . Fast Charger (AC/DC): These versatile stations can offer 43 kW AC (via Type 2 sockets) or 50 kW DC (using CHAdeMO or CCS sockets) . The DC option is much quicker, capable of charging a typical EV battery to 80% in roughly 20-40 minutes . You'll find these at petrol stations, along highways, and other high-traffic spots . Ultra-Fast Charger (DC): Offering 150 kW DC or even more, these are the speed demons of the charging world . Using CCS sockets, they can potentially get you to 80% charge in 20-30 minutes . While less common currently, DEWA is deploying these at strategic locations like Expo City Dubai and its headquarters . (Note: DEWA also lists 'Wall Box' chargers, but these 22kW AC units are mainly for home or workplace installations ). Costs and Payment for DEWA Public Charging
Let's talk money. How much does it cost to use DEWA's public chargers? For registered users with an EV Green Charger account, the costs are conveniently added to your monthly DEWA utility bill . As of September 30, 2024, DEWA implemented a per-kilowatt-hour (kWh) tariff structure . The rates are: AC Charging (Public Charger, Wall Box): AED 0.70 per kWh + VAT . DC Charging (Fast, Ultra-Fast): AED 1.20 per kWh + VAT . Heads up: These tariffs are based on the latest information from the research, but it's always wise to double-check DEWA's official channels for the most current rates.
For guest users accessing via the QR code, payment is made upfront through the web or app interface when you start the session . The final cost is based on actual consumption . While older sources mentioned time-based tariffs, the current system seems focused on kWh billing for registered users and upfront payment for guests based on duration/estimated consumption . How does this compare to charging at home? Generally, charging your EV at home using your domestic electricity supply is significantly cheaper per kWh than using public chargers . Keep that in mind for your daily charging needs! Essential EV Charging Etiquette
Using public chargers is a shared experience, so a little consideration goes a long way. Good etiquette ensures fair access for everyone. Here are the key rules to follow:
Charge Only, Don't Park: These spots are strictly for actively charging EVs. Please don't park your petrol car here (that's called "ICEing"), and even if you have an EV, only use the spot if you need to charge . Move When Done: Once your car has enough charge or is fully charged, promptly move it so someone else can use the station, especially at busy fast chargers . Some places might even charge idle fees if you overstay! Don't Hog the Charger: Particularly at fast chargers, avoid charging to 100% if others are waiting. Getting to 80% is usually much quicker and often sufficient . DEWA even suggests a 2-hour courtesy limit at public chargers . Respect the Queue: Never unplug someone else's car while it's charging . Wait your turn patiently. Cable Care: After charging, please return the cable neatly to its holder. Don't leave it trailing on the ground where it could be damaged or become a trip hazard . Troubleshooting & Support
What happens if you roll up to a charger and it's not working? Don't panic. Your first point of contact should be DEWA's Customer Care. You can reach them 24/7 at 04 601 9999 for assistance with malfunctioning chargers or other issues . DEWA also offers an online chat service called HAYAK on their website and app, which might be another avenue for support . Dubai's commitment to electric mobility, spearheaded by DEWA's EV Green Charger initiative, has created a robust and accessible public charging network . Whether you opt for the convenience of a registered account with its integrated billing or the flexibility of guest access via QR code, topping up your EV is becoming easier than ever . As the network continues its impressive expansion towards 1,000 stations by 2025, embracing electric driving in Dubai is set to become even more seamless . So, charge ahead with confidence and be part of Dubai's sustainable transport future!