Where the UAE Stands
The UAE scored 53 points in the index, which assessed 31 markets across macroeconomic factors, EV market competition, customer readiness, charging infrastructure, and total cost of ownership. China (106 points) and Norway (103 points) were the only markets to exceed the 100-point threshold indicating parity between EV and combustion-engine vehicles; Singapore and the Netherlands followed.
Battery electric vehicles made up roughly 6 to 8 percent of new UAE vehicle sales in 2025, with plug-in hybrids adding a further 2.5 percent, for combined EV penetration of about 9 percent. The UAE's charging network has expanded to approximately 2,800 points, including around 1,250 DC fast chargers.
What It Means for UAE Drivers and Fleets
The UAE has set a national target for electric and hybrid vehicles to represent 50 percent of vehicles on its roads by 2050, while Dubai is targeting an EV share exceeding 15 percent of its fleet by 2030. Joseph Salem, Partner and Middle East lead at Arthur D. Little, said the ranking reflects a market with growing visibility and a clear ecosystem direction, adding that aligning infrastructure, vehicle availability and customer needs would be key to translating momentum into broader adoption.
For UAE businesses considering fleet electrification — whether through outright purchase or leasing — the expanding charging network and rising EV share suggest growing practicality for day-to-day commercial use, though total cost of ownership comparisons still depend heavily on vehicle type and usage pattern.
Key Facts
● The UAE ranked 22nd globally and first in the GCC in GEMRIX 2026, scoring 53 points.
● EVs made up about 9% of new UAE vehicle sales in 2025.
● The UAE has roughly 2,800 EV charging points nationwide.
● National target: 50% of vehicles on UAE roads to be electric/hybrid by 2050.
● Dubai target: EVs to exceed 15% of its vehicle fleet by 2030.
Sources
Gulf News — "UAE leads Gulf markets in global EV preparations," September 24, 2026.
Emirates News Agency (WAM) via Sharjah24 — "UAE tops GCC in electric mobility readiness," September 24, 2026.
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