There is speculation that the UAE may soon introduce electric tuk-tuks as part of its transport options, offering an eco-friendly, compact alternative for short-distance travel in cities and urban areas. Electric tuk-tuks may become part of UAE transport network.
Soon, you might be walking through the streets of Dubai or Sharjah when an electric tuk-tuk speeds by. While still awaiting official approval from the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), a Chinese-based electric tuk-tuk company could soon enter the UAE market.
Tuk-tuks, also called auto rickshaws, are distinctive three-wheeled vehicles commonly seen in countries like Egypt, Thailand, India, and other parts of Asia and Africa.
Green Power GCC is the company working to introduce electric tuk-tuks in the UAE. Ahmed Tauseef, a sales executive at Green Power, explained that these vehicles could also serve hotels and resorts as small shuttle transports, similar to golf carts. He spoke to Khaleej Times during the recently held Evolve Future Mobility Show, where the company also showcased electric motorcycles alongside the tuk-tuks.
The company already operates in several countries, including Egypt and China. Last week, 200 solar electric tricycles were shipped to Egypt. Tauseef added that the company has received hundreds of inquiries from individuals expressing interest in these vehicles.
Tauseef further highlighted that the electric tuk-tuks are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and designed for urban mobility, offering a quieter, emission-free alternative to conventional vehicles. He noted that the company is exploring partnerships with local municipalities and private businesses to test pilot programs, aiming to make sustainable transport more accessible across UAE cities.
He added that the vehicles are ideal for short-distance travel, tourist areas, and community transport within resorts or residential complexes. With low maintenance costs and solar-powered options, these tuk-tuks could provide an affordable, sustainable, and practical solution for urban mobility in the UAE.
The tuk-tuk runs on two energy sources: solar energy and electricity. It features solar panels on the roof that absorb sunlight to charge its onboard batteries, which in turn power the electric motor. Additionally, it includes a standard charging port, allowing the vehicle to operate even during cloudy weather.
Tauseef stated that the tuk-tuk can travel up to 500 km if it receives sufficient sunlight. He added that it can also be charged at home, and some variants come with interchangeable batteries. “For now, in the UAE, we only have six units for trial purposes until official approval is granted,” the sales executive said.
According to Green Power’s official website, the company notes that after purchasing a tricycle — priced at approximately Dh8,000 — the only additional expense is routine maintenance.
The UAE is actively pursuing several environmental initiatives to combat climate change and cut down carbon emissions. A major focus is the National Electric Vehicles Policy, designed to lower energy usage in transportation by 20% and preserve the country’s leading status in global road quality rankings.
In May 2023, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure launched the ‘Global EV Market’ initiative, supporting the UAE’s green mobility ambitions. The project targets having half of all vehicles on UAE roads powered by electricity by 2050, further promoting sustainable transportation and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Comments
adamgordon
Thanks for sharing this information is useful for us.