Whether you are new to Dubai or moving to a new home within the city, setting up your electricity and water connection is a top priority. In Dubai, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) manages these essential services. Thus, it is important to know about the services offered by the organization.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need about DEWA’s services, billing, and how to set up or cancel your connections.
What is DEWA Dubai? About DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority)
DEWA is the government agency responsible for providing electricity and water to residents and businesses in Dubai. It was established on January 1, 1992, by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The goal was to merge the previously separate electricity and water departments into one efficient company.
Today, DEWA is considered one of the top utility providers globally. In 2023, DEWA was ranked as the second most valuable utility company in the Middle East, with a brand value surpassing one billion U.S. dollars. It has become a key leader in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region alongside its prominent industry counterpart, the Saudi Electricity Company.
Major DEWA Services You Should Know About
DEWA offers a wide range of services for both individuals and businesses. Here is a breakdown of both.
Services for Individuals
- Activate Electricity/Water (Move-In): Set up new connections when moving into a home.
- Deactivate Electricity/Water (Move-Out): Disconnect services when you move out.
- Transfer Electricity/Water (Move To): Transfer services when you move to a new property.
- Promoting Renewable Energy: DEWA encourages the use of solar energy to reduce reliance on traditional power sources.
- Bill Payments and Inquiries: Pay bills and ask about charges.
You can also read How to Pay DEWA Bill to explore multiple payment options and processes.
Apart from the services above, here is what DEWA offers to society.
a. Solar Energy Initiative: Shams Dubai
DEWA’s Shams Dubai program promotes solar energy in the city. Under this initiative, property owners can connect their solar panels (Photovoltaic systems) to the DEWA grid. This leads to reduced energy costs and the ability to sell surplus power back to the grid.
b. DEWA Solar Academy
DEWA has established a Solar Academy to train individuals in the solar energy field. The academy offers training programs for those interested in solar energy technology and the use of solar power.
c. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations
DEWA has installed over 200 EV Green Charger stations across Dubai to support sustainable transport. These stations encourage the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and help reduce carbon emissions.
d. DEWA Customer Support
DEWA operates Customer Happiness Centres throughout Dubai. These centres are staffed with trained professionals who assist customers with various issues and inquiries related to electricity and water services.
e. DEWA Academy for Emirati Students
DEWA also runs a vocational academy to train Emirati students for careers in the utility sector. The academy partners with the UK’s Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC). Students receive training in areas like energy production, transmission, and distribution and can earn diplomas from BTEC.
DEWA Services for Builders
DEWA provides services to builders and construction companies as well. Builders can apply for new electricity and water connections for their projects, and they can also get No Objection Certificates (NOCs) online without any application charges.
How to Set Up a DEWA Connection
There are two ways to register for a DEWA account: online through the DEWA website or via the DEWA smart app.
Online Registration Steps
Follow these simple steps to create a DEWA account online:
- Visit the DEWA Website: Go to DEWA’s official site.
- Select ‘Consumer’ Category: On the login page, choose the ‘Consumer’ option.
- Choose Login Method: You can log in using UAE Pass or DEWA ID. If you don’t have a DEWA ID, click on ‘Create an Account’.
- Enter Details: Input your business partner number or account number and click ‘Register’.
- Verification: Enter the verification code sent to you by email or SMS.
- Set Up Login: Create your username and password.
- Agree to Terms: Review the terms and conditions and click ‘Create an Account’.
- Account Created: Your DEWA online account is now ready.
How to Apply for Electricity and Water Activation (Move-In)
If you are new to Dubai or moving into a new property, you can apply for DEWA services to activate electricity and water.
There are two Ways to Apply for Activation
- Option A: Through RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency)
When you get your Ejari (official tenancy contract), DEWA will automatically send you a welcome email. This email will include your DEWA account number and a link to pay your security deposit.
- Option B: Use the DEWA Website or Smart App
After receiving your tenancy contract or Ejari, you can apply easily through the DEWA website or the DEWA smart app (available on iOS and Android).
Here are the steps to apply for activation
- Go to DEWA’s Website: Visit the official DEWA site.
- Select ‘Consumer’ Category: From the menu, choose ‘Supply Management’.
- Choose ‘Activation of Electricity and Water (Move-In)’: Click on the appropriate option.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the form, selecting ‘New in Dubai’ if you’re a new resident.
- Attach Documents: Upload any required documents.
- Create a DEWA Account: Set up a username and password.
- Agree to Terms: Accept the terms and conditions, then click ‘Continue’.
- Confirm Payment: Review your payment details and click ‘Continue’.
- Submit Request: Your application will be processed, and the connection will be activated within 15 hours.
Required Documents for DEWA Registration
To register for a new DEWA account, you will need to provide certain documents depending on your status. Here are the details.
- Property owners need a valid title deed.
- Tenants need an Ejari number (the tenancy contract).
- Dubai residents need an Emirates ID.
- GCC nationals or investors need a copy of the passport.
- Commercial or industrial customers need a trade permit.
Security Deposit for DEWA Services
When setting up your electricity and water services with DEWA, you will need to pay a security deposit:
- For apartments: AED 2,000
- For villas: AED 4,000
Activation Charges for DEWA Services
DEWA applies the following activation fees for new connections:
- AED 100 for small meters
- AED 300 for large meters
- AED 10 as knowledge fee
- AED 10 as registration fee
- AED 10 as innovation fee
- VAT: Applicable if required
How to Cancel DEWA Connection?
Cancelling your DEWA account is easy, and you can do it either online or by visiting a Customer Happiness Centre.
Steps to Cancel Your DEWA Account Online
- Log into the DEWA Website: Start by logging into your DEWA account.
- Go to ‘Deactivation of Electricity and Water’: Under the ‘Quick Services’ section, select the ‘Deactivation of Electricity and Water’ page.
- Choose Your Contract: Select your contract account from the list. If you need a clearance certificate, make sure to check the appropriate box.
- Enter Required Information: Choose your Move-Out Date, provide a contact number, and select how you would like to receive your security deposit refund.
- Submit Your Request: After filling in the details, click Submit.
Once you complete these steps, you will receive a Move-Out notification via email or SMS. Additionally, your final DEWA bill will be sent to your registered email.
Clearance Certificate and Security Deposit
If you require a clearance certificate, you will need to pay AED 50 plus VAT. Keep in mind that you will also get a refund of your security deposit. In order to ensure the refund is processed, make sure to have the original receipt available.
Frequently Asked Questions About DEWA Dubai
How long will it take to activate my services?
Once your security deposit is submitted, your electricity and water supply will be activated within 15 hours.
What is a DEWA Final Bill Enquiry?
If you are leaving Dubai and need to disconnect your electricity and water, you must submit a DEWA final bill enquiry. This will allow you to deactivate your services (move-out service). You can submit the enquiry online or visit any DEWA office to do this.
How Can You Lower Your DEWA Bill?
If you want to reduce your DEWA bill, here are some helpful tips:
- Set your air conditioner (AC) to auto mode and keep the temperature at 24°C or higher.
- Use fans to help with air circulation.
- Avoid using old AC units. Ensure your AC is less than 10 years old.
- Regularly clean your AC filters to keep them working efficiently.
- Turn off lights when not in use to save energy.
- Block sunlight with curtains or blinds to keep your home cooler.
You can also read our detailed guide on how to reduce DEWA bill?
What Are the Charges for DEWA Move-Out Service?
Here are the charges for disconnecting electricity and water when you move out:
- AED 100 for small meters
- AED 300 for large meters
- AED 10 as knowledge fee
- AED 10 as innovation fee
If you hold a Thukher or Sanad card, you can receive a 50% discount on the deactivation charges.
What is DEWA’s Official Helpline Number?
For any questions or assistance, you can contact DEWA’s 24/7 helpline at +971-4-601-9999. Whether you need help with billing or services, this is the number to call.
Where Can I Find My DEWA Account Number?
You can easily find your DEWA account number from the following sources.
- Customer Service: Contact DEWA customer service for help.
- DEWA Bill: Your account number is clearly shown on your monthly bill.
- Online Account: Log in to your personal DEWA account to find the number.
- DEWA Centers: Visit any Customer Happiness Center in Dubai for assistance.
Is the DEWA Security Deposit Refundable?
Yes, DEWA’s security deposit is refundable. To make the process easier, DEWA works with Western Union. Here is how you can get your refund:
- Request a refund via DEWA’s website or app.
- Select Western Union as the payout option.
- Wait for confirmation that your deposit is ready for collection.
- Once confirmed, you can pick up your refund at any Western Union location, either in the UAE or worldwide.
How Can You Pay DEWA Bills for a Friend?
To pay a DEWA bill for a friend, you simply need their account number. Then, you can use any of the available payment methods to complete the payment.
Who Is Responsible for Paying the Previous Tenant’s DEWA Bill?
You are not responsible for any unpaid DEWA bills from a previous tenant. If the bill is still unpaid, it is the landlord’s responsibility to settle the amount.
What Is the DEWA Housing Fee?
The housing fee, also known as the municipality fee, is a charge applied to all expats in Dubai. This fee covers various services provided by the Dubai government. It is billed once a year and appears on your DEWA statement.
How Is the DEWA Housing Fee Calculated?
The housing fee is calculated as 5% of your annual rent. For property owners, the rental value is based on the RERA rental index.
What Is a DEWA Premise Number?
A DEWA premise number is a unique 9-digit number that identifies each property in Dubai. You can find this number at the entrance of the building or property.
