logo
PwC Middle East sets out roadmap to accelerate Qatar's electric mobility transformation

PwC Middle East sets out roadmap to accelerate Qatar's electric mobility transformation

Al Bawaba22-05-2025

PwC Middle East has released its eMobility Outlook 2025 – Qatar Edition, presenting a bold, actionable roadmap to accelerate the country's shift toward sustainable transport. Aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) and the Electric Vehicle Strategy 2021, the report charts a course to unlock new value for the nation, redefining mobility, energy, and economic growth.
Electric vehicles are gaining traction in Qatar. PwC's report reveals that electric vehicle (EV) sales in Qatar are projected to reach 24% of new vehicle sales by 2035, with Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) making up 14% and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) 9.6%. The shift is driven by national policies, expanding charging infrastructure, and rising demand for low-carbon transport options.
Heiko Seitz, Global eMobility Leader and Partner at PwC Middle East, said: 'Qatar is rapidly advancing its sustainable mobility agenda. With strategic public-private collaboration, forward-looking regulation, and targeted investment, the country is laying the groundwork for widescale EV adoption, building a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient transport future.'
The report highlights the Ministry of Transport's active role in reshaping mobility over 73% of Qatar's public buses are already electric, and strategic collaborations with global leaders like Yutong, ABB E-mobility, and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), are laying strong foundations, from vehicle assembly to EV training and service centres.
By transitioning to electric and cleaner energy sources, Qatar could reduce transport-related CO₂ emissions by nearly 5% by 2035, even as vehicle volumes rise from 1.7 million to 2.3 million. With EV electricity demand expected to account for less than 1% of total power use by 2035, the nation is well-positioned to meet this demand entirely through renewables.
PwC identifies several key levers to drive momentum. First, infrastructure remains a cornerstone. Fast-charging corridors in high-traffic urban and intercity zones will be essential to meet growing demand and ensure ease of access.
Second, thermal resilience is vital. Adaptive thermal management systems and continued battery innovation are integral to delivering consistent performance year-round, accounting for high summer temperatures.
Third, cost competitiveness is gaining ground. While private EV ownership still carries a higher total cost, commercial fleets in Qatar have already reached cost parity. Bulk procurement, optimised utilisation, and operational incentives help close the cost gap and improve long-term value for fleet operators.
Finally, broadening market access is key. More than 90% of vehicles sold in Qatar today are still internal combustion engine (ICE) models. To shift consumer behavior at scale, affordable EV options must enter the market, supported by clear policy signals, financial incentives, and streamlined regulation.
With Qatar's first domestic EV brand Ecotranzit already in motion and strong interest from global OEMs, the market is gaining traction. Green financing, tax incentives, and policy clarity are further fuelling the shift.
'Qatar continues to drive forward its sustainability agenda. The transition to electric mobility represents both a strategic imperative and a significant opportunity. With the right mix of innovation, policy support, and investment, Qatar is well positioned to lead the region in building a cleaner, smarter, and more efficient transport ecosystem', Bassam Hajhamad, Qatar Country Senior Partner and Consulting Leader at PwC Middle East in Qatar, added.
PwC's eMobility Outlook is a call to action for government, industry, and investors to collaborate, innovate, and move forward together, positioning Qatar at the forefront of the global clean transport transition.
Read the full report here.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Al Nassr's Plan to Convince Ronaldo: Key Changes and Major Signings to Renew His Contract
Al Nassr's Plan to Convince Ronaldo: Key Changes and Major Signings to Renew His Contract

Al Bawaba

time3 hours ago

  • Al Bawaba

Al Nassr's Plan to Convince Ronaldo: Key Changes and Major Signings to Renew His Contract

Saudi giants Al Nassr are actively working on a new contract proposal for Cristiano Ronaldo, hoping to secure the Portuguese superstar's services beyond his current deal, according to reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The club is reportedly drafting a strategic plan to present to Ronaldo in the coming weeks, aiming to align with the player's ambitions and secure his signature for another spell in Riyadh. Key squad changes underway to support contract talks As part of their efforts to keep Ronaldo at the club, Al Nassr is preparing significant changes to the squad ahead of the upcoming season. Sources indicate that several high-profile names have already been added to the club's shortlist. Among the targets reportedly under consideration: Luis Díaz, the Colombian winger currently at Liverpool David Hancko, the Slovakian defender playing for Feyenoord An unnamed world-class central midfielder is also said to be in the club's plans These reinforcements are seen as critical not just for improving the team, but also for convincing Ronaldo that the club is serious about competing at the highest level. Ronaldo and Al Nassr: A partnership entering a key phase Since arriving in Saudi Arabia in early 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo has been a transformational figure for Al Nassr—both on and off the pitch. His presence has brought global attention to the Saudi Pro League and helped elevate the club's competitiveness. With his current contract set to expire soon, Al Nassr's management is moving proactively to lock in their star. Their approach reportedly includes technical guarantees, a revamped squad, and a renewed sporting vision.

UAE SMEs show steady optimism despite economic headwinds, says RAKBANK SME Confidence Index 2025
UAE SMEs show steady optimism despite economic headwinds, says RAKBANK SME Confidence Index 2025

Al Bawaba

time7 hours ago

  • Al Bawaba

UAE SMEs show steady optimism despite economic headwinds, says RAKBANK SME Confidence Index 2025

RAKBANK has released its latest SME Confidence Index, highlighting a promising outlook for the UAE's Small & Medium Enterprise (SME) sector. Based on insights from over 1,200 UAE-based SMEs collected between October and December 2024, the report – done in partnership with RFI Global – reveals an SME Confidence Index score of 57. Measured against a base score of 50, the findings reflect a stable and optimistic sentiment against a dynamic economic environment. The 2025 findings illustrate that UAE SMEs continue to build on the momentum of the resilience demonstrated in recent years. Despite a marginal drop in the overall Index score by 4 points from 61 in 2023 to 57 in 2024, the findings show that optimism remains steady, with over two-thirds (68%) of SMEs viewing the future business environment as favourable, and more than 60% reporting revenue growth over the past two challenges persist, including rising operational costs, corporate tax implementation, and high borrowing costs, the overall trajectory signals adaptability and optimism among SMEs in navigating the evolving business Ahmed, Group Chief Executive Officer of RAKBANK, commented on the findings, saying: 'This has been a milestone month for RAKBANK's Business Banking Group, reinforcing our commitment to the UAE's dynamic SME first launched the RAKBANK RFI SME Confidence Index in 2024, providing timely insights into SME sentiment, challenges, and growth outlook across the country. RAKBANK has also been named the UAE's Best Bank for SMEs at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, a recognition of our continued focus on enabling business a further boost to the SME ecosystem, RAKBANK and Emirates Development Bank announced a strategic AED 1 billion co-financing partnership during the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced and medium enterprises are the backbone of every thriving economy, and in the UAE, they play a central role in driving diversification and sustainable development. At RAKBANK, we continue to reinforce our commitment to be a trusted partner on their journey, providing the insights, tools and support they need to grow their businesses and contribute to the wider economy.'Key highlightsThe report showcases several trends shaping the SME sector in 2025. Consumer & Retail Services remain the highest-performing sector, driven by a continued rise in consumer spending and successful adoption of new business channels. The report also highlights how SMEs across industries are prioritising product innovation and market expansion as key strategies for growth in a competitive Consumer & Retail Services SMEs achieved a sector confidence score of 60, Construction & Manufacturing (57), Transport (57), and Trading (58) remained steady in confidence, while Public Services and Professional Services saw more notable declines to 56, largely due to increased costs and lower confidence in debt servicing. Key takeaways include:• Overall confidence remains above baseline: While the Index score decreased slightly to 57 from 61 in 2024, it still signals positive sentiment across the board.• Revenue growth continues: More than 3 in 5 SMEs reported an increase in annual revenue over the last two financial years.• SMEs with revenue up to AED 30 million posted the highest confidence score at 58, while larger SMEs (AED 30-100 million) dipped to 55.• Rising costs present challenges: Over two-thirds of SMEs experienced higher operational costs, while only 39% expressed confidence in meeting debt obligations, down from last year.• Digital adoption is on the rise: 22% of SMEs now sell their products or services online, and 45% use digital banking channels monthly.• Sustainability is gaining attention: 55% of SMEs are either on or planning to begin a sustainability journey, with 1 in 3 citing it as a short-term business challenges head-onWhile UAE SMEs remain optimistic, they are also navigating barriers such as increased costs of doing business, rising demand for credit, competitive pressures, and adapting to the corporate tax regime introduced in 2024. To address these issues, many SMEs are investing ambitiously in technology, operational efficiencies, and sustainability strategies aimed at long-term report further emphasises the role of financial partners in this equation, with SMEs citing tailored banking solutions as a key support system. This finding underscores RAKBANK's continued mission to empower UAE SMEs with innovative financial products, relevant market data, and strategic guidance. What's especially encouraging from the survey, is the sector's forward-looking mindset. We're seeing increased focus on entering new markets, investing in talent, and modernising payment infrastructure. At RAKBANK, we see our role as a partner in that journey, providing not just financial solutions but also the advisory support needed to help them grow with confidence.

Ajman Bank Wins MEA Finance Banking Technology Awards 2025 for Outstanding Innovation and Digital Excellence in Islamic Banking
Ajman Bank Wins MEA Finance Banking Technology Awards 2025 for Outstanding Innovation and Digital Excellence in Islamic Banking

Al Bawaba

time10 hours ago

  • Al Bawaba

Ajman Bank Wins MEA Finance Banking Technology Awards 2025 for Outstanding Innovation and Digital Excellence in Islamic Banking

Ajman Bank has been recognised as one of the winners at the prestigious MEA Finance Banking Technology Awards 2025, held on 8 May at the Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Now in its fifth year, the awards celebrate excellence in banking innovation and digital transformation across the Middle East and Africa, attracting over 300 senior banking and fintech on the achievement, Mr. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, said: 'We are honoured to receive this prestigious award. It is a testament to the strength of our transformation strategy and the dedication of our team. This recognition reflects our customers' trust and our ongoing commitment to providing seamless, secure, and inclusive digital banking experiences. We remain focused on driving innovation in the UAE's financial ecosystem through speed, service, and specialisation.'Organised by MEA Finance Magazine, the awards are widely considered a benchmark for excellence in banking technology. Winners were selected by an expert panel based on criteria including innovation, strategic impact, and award specifically recognises Ajman Bank's achievement in 'Best Cloud Implementation,' a milestone that has significantly enhanced the overall user experience by delivering faster, more seamless digital services. The adoption of cloud technologies has also opened new, dynamic channels of engagement with customers - redefining convenience, connectivity, and responsiveness in Islamic banking. This accolade further cements Ajman Bank's standing as a digitally agile Islamic bank. The bank's achievements include the successful launch of digital-first services such as instant account opening, fully digital credit card issuance, and collaborations with global fintech and payment platforms. These efforts support the Bank's strategic objectives around financial inclusion, sustainable growth, and the Ajman Vision 2030.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store