Exploring Electric Vehicles Adoption in Abu Dhabi by Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling

Abstract

The adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is one of the leading solutions for reducing carbon emissions from the transportation sector. As the world is facing climate change challenges, EV adoption is essential to reduce reliance on fossil fuels as well. Despite EVs’ significant technological and environmental advantages, the adoption rate in many regions, including the UAE, remains relatively low. This research focuses on the barriers and enablers of EV adoption in Abu Dhabi. It aims to develop a model to understand the factors influencing consumers' decisions to switch from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles to electric ones.
This study combines a literature review, questionnaire survey data collected from 120 respondents, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to investigate the key barriers and enablers in Abu Dhabi. It explores challenges such as high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, and cultural preferences for gasoline vehicles, alongside enablers like government incentives, technological advancements, and growing environmental and social awareness.
The results of this study show that economic enablers, such as government incentives and subsidies, and lower operational and maintenance costs, significantly influence the consumer’s intention to adopt EVs. On the other hand, it also shows that limited charging stations and a lack of awareness about EV benefits are considered to be one of the major barriers. Policymakers and industry stakeholders may learn a lot from these findings, which emphasize the necessity of improving incentives and infrastructure to promote EV adoption. The study offers practical suggestions for promoting electric mobility and sustainable transportation research in the United Arab Emirates.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Abdelrahman Eltoukhy (Supervisor)