As the UAE accelerates its efforts toward a sustainable, emission-free future, new initiatives are being launched to support the transition to clean energy. Among these initiatives, Charger, founded by Farooq Omar Khedr, stands out as the first on-demand electric vehicle charging service provider in the UAE and the Gulf region.
In an interview with CNN Business, Farouk Omar Khedr explained that the company’s vision goes beyond building a traditional infrastructure for charging electric vehicles, toward creating an integrated system that supports the future of electric mobility in the country and the region. He added, “We aim to provide practical and innovative solutions that contribute to accelerating the transition to clean and sustainable vehicles, with a focus on comfort and ease of use.”
Charger’s concept is based on providing flexible solutions for charging electric vehicles, through a fleet of mobile charging units equipped with ultra-fast charging technology. This service allows owners to request their vehicles to be charged anywhere—whether at home, at work, or on the road—providing a practical alternative to traditional fixed infrastructure.
The company seeks to build an integrated system that goes beyond mobile units, but also includes the development of a network of fixed charging stations specifically designed to meet the needs of electric vehicles. These stations are planned to serve as integrated destinations, incorporating service and commercial facilities alongside charging services.
Charger recently announced a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, a move aimed at supporting government plans to accelerate the spread of electric vehicles and enhance the necessary infrastructure. According to the company’s statements, this partnership will focus on developing the charging network to meet the growing demand from individuals and the commercial sector.
This step comes within the broader context of the transformations taking place in the UAE, with the adoption of ambitious policies and plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Challenges remain, particularly regarding ensuring broad geographical coverage with fast charging, providing a seamless user experience for consumers, and balancing the speed of deployment with the quality of the solutions provided.
It remains to be seen how initiatives like Charger will contribute to achieving these national goals, and to what extent they will be able to gain user confidence and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in the local market.
