Electric Vehicle Innovation Summit Abu Dhabi 2025 opens showcasing sustainable transport advances

The 4th edition of the Electric Vehicle Innovation Summit (EVIS) Abu Dhabi 2025 officially commenced today at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Hosted by ADNOC Distribution and held in strategic partnership with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the event runs until 23rd April. It has established itself as the leading platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology and clean transportation solutions.

This year’s summit, organised by Nirvana MICE, enjoys significant support from Abu Dhabi Mobility as the Mobility Partner and UAEV as the Innovation Partner, highlighting the UAE’s unwavering dedication to fostering sustainable and smart transport innovations. The opening drew attendance from senior government officials, international delegates, and top industry leaders, reflecting the summit’s importance in the global EV ecosystem.

Eng. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasised the event’s growing prominence in the region. Speaking at the opening, he described EVIS 2025 as “the largest and most significant EV event in the MENA region.” He highlighted the increasing participation of companies eager to unveil new technologies, connect with key decision-makers, and lead in sustainable mobility.

“The UAE has firmly placed sustainability at the heart of its national agenda,” Al Olama stated to ET Auto. “Guided by the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, and the National Demand-Side Management Programme, we are committed to transforming the way we consume energy — and transport plays a pivotal role in this transformation.”

He also outlined ambitious measures to encourage EV adoption, including the expansion of the national charging station network aimed at eradicating range anxiety among EV owners. To further this goal, the Ministry partnered with Etihad Water and Electricity to establish UAEV, tasked with deploying a nationwide EV charging infrastructure.

Addressing future sustainability initiatives, Al Olama revealed work underway on the region’s first electric and hybrid battery recycling facility, set up in collaboration with environmental management company Bee’ah. This project represents a key part of a circular economy approach, turning waste into reusable resources.

The Undersecretary also shared impressive statistics: “In 2024, the UAE ranked first in the Middle East for the highest share of electric and hybrid vehicle sales out of total car sales, reaching almost 26 percent.” Looking ahead, the country anticipates a substantial reduction in carbon emissions from the transport sector, projecting a drop of over 400 kilotons by 2050.

Al Olama stressed that realising green mobility goals requires “strong public-private collaboration, further investments in infrastructure, effective collaboration across the supply chain, and innovative technologies.”

Adding to the event’s forward-looking focus, Xpeng UAE is presenting its pioneering air taxi, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of autonomous, vertical electric transport.

The summit features a dynamic array of activities designed to engage participants. These include an EV Outdoor Test Drive Zone, allowing visitors to experience the latest electric vehicles firsthand, and an E-Circuit Zone for live vehicle performance demonstrations. The Charging Oasis brings together leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to showcase cutting-edge EV charging technologies. Additionally, the Market Gateway facilitates networking opportunities for industry stakeholders.

Complementing the exhibition are conference sessions led by prominent speakers, policymakers, and industry experts who will discuss pressing issues across mobility, energy, and sustainability sectors.

Eng. Naser Ali Al Bahri, CEO of Nirvana MICE, described EVIS Abu Dhabi as “where industry vision becomes reality. An influential platform that serves as a powerful engine driving collaboration, transformation, and sustainable progress across borders and sectors.” He highlighted the event’s growing global significance: “Each year, the event continues to grow in global relevance, offering a strategic platform where public and private sector leaders come together to shape the mobility landscape of tomorrow.”

The Electric Vehicle Innovation Summit Abu Dhabi 2025 continues through 23rd April, positioning the UAE at the forefront of the EV revolution in the region and beyond.

Source: Noah Wire Services