A new megawatt EV charger, capable of adding up to 400 km of driving range in just five minutes, was recently showcased at Dubai Festival City by Chinese carmaker BYD. The demonstration marked the first time this technology has been displayed outside China, highlighting the UAE’s role as a global hub for innovation.
Tackling the EV Charging Challenge
For many drivers, long charging times remain one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption. According to Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD and CEO of its operations in the Americas and Europe, this new technology is a major step toward making electric cars as practical and convenient as petrol-powered vehicles.
“For just five minutes of megawatt charging, one can get 400 km of range. It’s like going to the gas station and grabbing a coffee,” said Li during the launch event.
Although no public megawatt charging points have been installed yet, the Dubai demo proved that the technology is ready for wider rollout.
Rollout Plans: 600 EV Flash Charging Stations by 2026
BYD confirmed that beginning in 2025, the megawatt charging system will be available for all types of electric vehicles. The company, in partnership with UAE and Middle East stakeholders, is planning to deploy more than 600 fast charging stations across the region by the end of 2026.
While the exact number of chargers in the Emirates has yet to be finalized, industry experts believe this will dramatically boost EV adoption, supporting the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy.
Why the UAE is Leading EV Innovation
Li praised the UAE as the perfect environment for launching cutting-edge technologies:
“This is the dream, and the UAE is the place to make your dream come true. Our company stands for ‘Build Your Dreams’ and this country makes things happen.”
The planned flash charging stations will feature a universal connector, meaning they can technically charge any electric vehicle. However, not all EV models may be able to take advantage of the full 5-minute charging capability.
Impact on EV Adoption in the UAE
Experts believe that if the rollout succeeds, 5-minute charging will help eliminate one of the biggest concerns for EV owners—waiting at charging stations. Faster charging will make EVs more practical for daily commutes, long-distance travel, and fleet operations.
This move aligns with the UAE’s long-term sustainability vision, including its Net Zero 2050 commitment, and positions the Emirates as a leader in EV adoption in the Middle East.
What’s Next for EV Technology in the UAE?
In addition to ultra-fast charging, BYD is working on autonomous driving systems and intelligent vehicle technologies designed to enhance the EV driving experience in the region.
With infrastructure investment and global partnerships, the UAE is steadily moving toward a future where electric vehicles are the default choice for residents and businesses alike.
Key Takeaway
By 2026, UAE residents may be able to charge their EVs in just 5 minutes and gain up to 400 km of range — a breakthrough that could put the country at the forefront of the global EV revolution.
Source: Khaleej Times
