Regulatory Framework for EV Charging Infrastructure

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has been a pioneer in developing the electric mobility ecosystem in the Emirate of Dubai, launching the region’s first public charging infrastructure network for electric vehicles (EVs). To reinforce its commitment to accelerating EV adoption and fostering private sector involvement, DEWA has established a comprehensive regulatory and licensing framework for the development and operation of EV charging infrastructure across the Emirate. This effort is a vital step towards supporting green mobility and achieving Dubai’s goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

This framework addresses current needs while also anticipating future growth, ensuring that Dubai remains at the forefront of green mobility innovation. It outlines a dual approach: Dubai will witness a combination of direct development of public charging infrastructure by DEWA (PJSC) and its subsidiaries, as well as infrastructure development from third party charge point operators (Independent CPOs) licensed by DEWA for the purpose. This licensing regime is designed to safeguard DEWA’s grid and customers through licence conditions that Independent CPOs shall comply with.

This webpage provides access to the relevant regulations, as well the upcoming CPO Licensing Portal. For clarifications or enquiries related to CPO licensing, please contact CPO.Licensing@dewa.gov.ae.

Regulatory Framework

EV Charging Regulation

EV Charging Technical Regulations (Upcoming)

Independent CPO Licensing

To operate public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the Emirate of Dubai, independent charge point operators must obtain a CPO licence from DEWA. There are two types of licences: one for CPOs offering free EV charging services and another for CPOs collecting payments from end users. A preview of the forms of licence is available for download below.

Alternate Current (AC) Chargers – Licensing is streamlined through the CPO Licensing Portal (upcoming). To know more about the interim application procedures, send an email to CPO.Licensing@dewa.gov.ae

Direct Current (DC) Chargers

• Licensing of DC chargers with a capacity of more than 50 kW and of DC chargers accessible by the general public (irrespective of capacity) is subject to DEWA’s specific approval. To initiate an application, send an email to CPO.Licensing@dewa.gov.ae
• Licensing of DC chargers, with a capacity of up to 50 kW at locations with restricted access (such as gated communities, hotels, and employee parking), is streamlined through the CPO Licensing Portal (upcoming). To know more about the interim application procedures, send an email to CPO.Licensing@dewa.gov.ae

According to Article 9 (Transitory Provisions) of the EV Charging Infrastructure Regulation for the Emirate of Dubai, any Person operating Public Charging Equipment at the effective date of the regulation must comply with it within no later than six (6) months from the date of its publication (i.e, by 31 March 2025).  During this transitional period, Independent Charge Point Operators may continue to provide free EV charging services. However, the collection of payments from customers for the use of Public Charging Infrastructure is strictly prohibited without a valid DEWA licence.