Electric Cars in UAE: EVs at a Glance
The electric vehicle economy car segment in the UAE is gradually becoming more popular, driven by Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other regions. During 2024 and moving forward into 2025, various EVs with low costs are available for purchase in the UAE market, with excellent range and top-of-the-range features at budget-friendly prices.
There are certain models that affect the prices of electric vehicles in the UAE: assembly country, battery capacity (kWh battery size), brand reputation, and onboard features like infotainment systems and fast charging. Electric vehicles such as BYD and GAC are Chinese models with Blade LFP batteries and touchscreens at affordable prices but with the latest technology. Other well-known brands such as Toyota and BMW sacrifice reliability for advanced features, and this affects their prices.
Most Affordable Electric Vehicles in the UAE (with prices in AED)
BYD Seagull
Among the most budget-friendly city electric cars for sale in the UAE, the BYD Seagull has an unmatched starting price — typically around AED 60,000 to AED 70,000. Short in length and powered by a 38.88 kWh battery, it provides a practical range appropriate for city driving of some 250 km on each full charge. Its Blade LFP battery is safe and long-lasting, making it an excellent beginner choice for homeowners looking for budget-friendly electric cars for sale in the UAE.
GAC Aion Y / Hycan Z03
These affordable Chinese electric vehicles — a subcompact electric minivan and a crossover vehicle — are priced below AED 100K, and they are extremely popular models as they are spacious, eco- and budget-friendly, and futuristic in style. Both are offered with two battery packs, which offer between 300 km and 400 km of driving range per full charge. With features like regenerative braking and fast DC charging, they are great value for money in the compact crossover segment.
Mitsubishi AirTrek, the Cheapest of Electric SUVs
The new Mitsubishi AirTrek is a reliable Japanese mini electric SUV that combines the proven technology with modern EV advantages. It boasts generous interior room, a 69.77 kWh battery, and an estimated 450 km range. Its sturdy build and stable performance make it one of the UAE’s most popular budget-friendly electric cars, with prices typically starting from around AED 120,000.
Chery iCar 03
New to the UAE market is the Chery iCar 03, a stunner in its attractiveness and opulent infotainment package that includes a Tony Bongiovi-tuned sound system. The electric saloon carries a 150 kW motor and has an aggressive approach to pricing, typically starting around AED 90,000, making it one of the most affordable EVs with cutting-edge features available.
Toyota bZ3
Toyota’s new electric sedan, the bZ3, combines price and reliability. Emphasizing cost-effectiveness and a charging range that is practical for daily driving, it is an astute choice for someone who wants an electric sedan with Toyota’s reputation for quality. Available for sale in the UAE, the bZ3 typically starts at around AED 110,000, introducing a familiar brand to the list of affordable electric vehicles.
Mid-Range Budget EVs Worth Considering
BYD Atto 3
With a huge demand in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the BYD Atto 3 has a fantastic price-performance ratio. It has a lot of space on the inside, fast charging capability, and a range of about 420 km. It is one of the most highly sought-after electric SUVs to be purchased in the UAE, with prices starting from approximately AED 140,000.
BMW i3
Though its production has ceased since 2022, the BMW i3 continues to be a luxury compact EV in the UAE used market. It offers a unique look, high-end construction, and an acceptable range of up to 260 km as an introduction to the luxury EV market without a high price tag. In the second-hand market, BMW i3 models in the UAE typically range from approximately AED 60,000 to AED 110,000, depending on the year, condition, and mileage.
Kia EV5
The Kia EV5 is a plug-in crossover that is making waves as it provides affordable leasing rates in the UAE. It is the combination of stylish looks, plenty of interior room, and decent range, and it is an excellent mid-range electric SUV for family use. Leasing prices for the Kia EV5 in the UAE typically start from around AED 1,800 to AED 2,500 per month, depending on the lease terms and provider.
Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen ID.4 brings the European technology and respectable driving dynamics to the UAE market of EVs. The car has a competitive 400 km range and enables fast charging. The electric SUV is a good choice for a quality and dependable EV. In the UAE, the Volkswagen ID.4 is priced approximately between AED 140,000 and AED 160,000, depending on the variant and features.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is the most affordable Tesla in the UAE but remains highly sought after due to its rapid acceleration, extensive supercharger network, and high resale value. It varies by model but is typically between 400 km and 520 km and is one of the best options in the segment of electric sedans. In the UAE market, the Tesla Model 3 is priced approximately between AED 160,000 and AED 220,000, depending on the variant and specifications.
Honorary Mentions
Renault Twizy
For very short city commutes, the Renault Twizy is a plug-in electric microcar that is great for darting short distances around the city. Its small size and price tag are ideal for nipping through tight Dubai streets.
Chevrolet Bolt
The Chevrolet Bolt is a proven electric vehicle with a reasonable range of around 380 km. It is a solid performer and a great option for those seeking affordable EVs with excellent battery life.
EV Range Comparison
| Model | Battery (kWh) | Range (km on full charge) | Vehicle Type |
| BYD Seagull | 38.88 | ~250 | City EV |
| GAC Aion Y / Hycan Z03 | 38-50+ | 300-400 | Compact Crossover |
| Mitsubishi AirTrek | 69.77 | ~450 | Compact SUV |
| Chery iCar 03 | ~50 | ~350 | Electric Sedan |
| Toyota bZ3 | ~50 | ~350 | Electric Sedan |
| BYD Atto 3 | 60-70 | ~420 | Electric SUV |
| BMW i3 | ~42 | ~260 | Premium Compact EV |
| Kia EV5 | ~60 | ~400 | Electric Crossover |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | 60-70 | ~400 | Electric SUV |
| Tesla Model 3 | 55-75 | 400-520 | Electric Sedan |
| Renault Twizy | ~6 | ~100 | Micro EV |
| Chevrolet Bolt | 66 | ~380 | Electric Hatchback |
Official ranges by manufacturers are a guide, but real-world performance depends on driving style, weather, and UAE charging conditions.
Upcoming EVs in 2025
The UAE will experience a range of new budget-friendly electric cars in 2025. Chinese carmakers Zeekr, Geely, Leapmotor, and XPeng all have models on the cards with aggressive price points as well as latest technologies like larger batteries, improved fast-charging, and more advanced infotainment systems. These newcomers will add budget-friendly EV options available for sale in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the UAE.
Petrol vs. EVs — What’s Cheaper in the Long Run?
In regards to ownership costs, electric vehicles are cheaper to run than petrol vehicles in the UAE. Refueling is much cheaper using electricity, especially with the introduction of fast charge stations and supercharging. EVs are lower maintenance since they have fewer parts and require less servicing.
Insurance and depreciation vary by model, but most affordable electric vehicles leverage promotional warranty and finance offers, thereby lessening overall cost. For UAE drivers searching for new or secondhand cars for sale, electric driving can be an affordable long-term financial and environmental solution.
Final Considerations
Whether you’re looking for the cheapest electric cars in the UAE or mid-range budget EVs with advanced features, 2025 offers plenty of options to suit your needs and wallet. From compact city cars like the BYD Seagull to popular models like the Tesla Model 3, the UAE’s EV market is ready to accelerate your journey toward sustainable driving.