As Saudi Arabia strives to convert 30% of Riyadh’s vehicles to electric by 2030, an industry executive highlights the urgent need for EV charging infrastructure along highways

Saudi Arabia‘s push toward electric vehicles (EVs) requires a comprehensive network of charging stations, with one needed every 100 kilometres along highways to support the growing e-mobility sector. Speaking at the EV Auto Show in Riyadh, Mohamed Al-Mubarak, General Manager of Charging Arabia, emphasized that the widespread availability of charging infrastructure is crucial for reducing range anxiety among EV drivers and ensuring the sector’s expansion.

The Kingdom’s goal is to convert 30% of Riyadh’s vehicles to electric by 2030 as part of a larger strategy to cut carbon emissions in the capital by 50% and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. “It’s important to have EV charging stations on highways so people can travel with their electric cars,” said Al-Mubarak. He pointed out that while current EVs have a range of 300-500 kilometres, having stations every 100 kilometres will ensure drivers can travel longer distances without concern.

Charging Arabia, which operates across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Saudi Arabia, is heavily focused on building the Kingdom’s EV infrastructure. The company provides EV charging station operations, AC and DC charger installations, and mobile charging services. Although there are currently only around 1,000 EVs in the Saudi market, Al-Mubarak believes that the sector is on the right track and anticipates thousands of electric vehicles on the road by 2030.

The company has already partnered with Saudi-based manufacturer Alfanar to accelerate the development of EV infrastructure in the country. “We need chargers everywhere — public places, petrol stations, shopping malls, and public parking lots,” said Al-Mubarak. Charging Arabia currently operates two stations in Riyadh, with plans to expand significantly, particularly in the Eastern Province where they aim to establish over 100 stations.

Al-Mubarak also identified the need for better electricity load management as the number of EVs increases. To encourage more widespread adoption, he suggested that the government could introduce schemes to help individuals purchase home AC chargers, enabling them to charge their cars overnight and have fully charged vehicles by morning.

Analysis:

Political:

Saudi Arabia’s push for EV adoption is directly tied to its Vision 2030, a transformative political strategy that seeks to reduce the Kingdom’s dependency on oil. As the government accelerates investments in green technologies and renewable energy, the installation of EV chargers every 100 km reflects its commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Politically, this shift also strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in climate change mitigation, aligning with international agreements such as the Paris Agreement. By making its capital city, Riyadh, a model for e-mobility, the Kingdom showcases its ability to lead the Gulf region in environmental policy innovation. The expansion of EV infrastructure also symbolizes a broader shift in government priorities, reflecting a willingness to invest in long-term projects that may eventually reduce oil consumption, historically the backbone of its economy.

Social:

The development of Saudi Arabia’s EV infrastructure holds significant social implications. It signals a shift towards modernization and technological innovation in everyday life, promoting a more environmentally conscious mindset among Saudi citizens. As the number of EVs grows, so does public awareness of environmental sustainability, influencing societal norms and behaviours. Furthermore, with more EV chargers being installed across public spaces, including shopping malls and petrol stations, everyday experiences of transportation and refuelling will change, reducing reliance on traditional fuel-based vehicles. The introduction of home charging stations could also shift how families and communities engage with energy consumption, encouraging more individuals to adopt EVs and embrace greener alternatives in their daily lives.

Racial:

Saudi Arabia’s growing EV market could also affect the Kingdom’s racially diverse labor market, particularly in the infrastructure and technology sectors. Many of the country’s workforce, including expatriate workers, may be involved in the construction, installation, and maintenance of EV charging stations. The rapid growth of the EV industry might create new employment opportunities, particularly for skilled professionals in engineering and technology sectors, opening doors for both local and expatriate workers from various racial backgrounds. Additionally, as EV infrastructure develops, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to technological progress can attract foreign investments and workers from diverse regions, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic and cultural diversity.

Gender:

The expansion of EV infrastructure could present opportunities to advance gender inclusion within the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia has been making efforts to increase female participation in the workforce, and the emerging green technology sector, including EV development, presents a new frontier for women to engage in fields such as engineering, technology, and environmental science. Additionally, with the government’s emphasis on modernizing transportation, women could benefit from improved access to sustainable and reliable modes of travel, particularly in urban areas where public transportation options have historically been limited. The introduction of home charging solutions could further empower women in domestic settings by enabling them to take charge of their family’s transition to electric vehicles.

Economical:

The economic implications of expanding Saudi Arabia’s EV charging network are substantial. The development of this infrastructure is a key driver for the nation’s diversification goals under Vision 2030. Reducing the Kingdom’s reliance on oil revenue by fostering a strong EV ecosystem could significantly strengthen other sectors, such as manufacturing, logistics, and technology. The partnership between Charging Arabia and Alfanar is a prime example of how the private sector can collaborate with local manufacturers to fuel economic growth and innovation.

Moreover, the installation of charging stations across the country, especially along major highways, could attract foreign investment and boost Saudi Arabia’s appeal as a destination for international EV manufacturers. As global automotive giants pivot towards electric vehicles, Saudi Arabia’s readiness to support this transition could position it as a key player in the EV supply chain, contributing to long-term economic stability.

The EV charging infrastructure also offers new business opportunities, from charger manufacturing to retail spaces around charging stations, where travellers may spend time during charging sessions. Additionally, the widespread availability of home chargers, as suggested by Al-Mubarak, could drive growth in the residential construction and energy sectors.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building an extensive EV charging network is poised to create economic, social, and environmental benefits, securing the Kingdom’s place as a global leader in sustainable development