DEWA Connection Guide: Electricity & Water Setup for New Properties in Dubai 2025
Moving into a new property in Dubai? Setting up your DEWA connection (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) is one of the most critical first steps to make your property habitable. Whether you’re a property investor, tenant, or new homeowner, understanding the DEWA activation process, required documents, and associated fees will save you time and prevent delays in getting your utilities connected.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about DEWA registration in 2025—from security deposits and activation fees to using the DEWA Smart App for ongoing management. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to activate your electricity and water services within 15 hours.
Quick Facts: DEWA Connection 2025
- Security Deposit: AED 2,000 (apartments) | AED 4,000 (villas)
- Activation Time: Within 15 hours of payment
- Connection Fee: AED 130 (small meters) | AED 300 (large meters)
- Required Document: Valid Ejari certificate mandatory
- Housing Fee: 5% of annual rent (paid monthly via DEWA bill)
What is DEWA?
DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) is the official government entity responsible for supplying electricity and water to all residential, commercial, and industrial properties across Dubai. Established to ensure reliable utility services, DEWA serves over 1 million customers and is committed to sustainable energy practices and smart city initiatives.
Every property in Dubai—whether rented or owned—must have an active DEWA account to legally access electricity and water services. Without DEWA registration, your utilities cannot be activated, making it an essential step before moving into any property.
Your DEWA account provides you with a unique Business Partner Number and Contract Account Number, which you’ll use for all future billing, payments, and service requests. Red Horizon Dubai assists international investors with comprehensive property management services, including DEWA setup coordination.
Required Documents for DEWA Connection
Before applying for your DEWA connection, ensure you have the following documents ready. The requirements differ slightly between tenants and property owners:
For Tenants:
- Emirates ID: Valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID (both sides scanned)
- Ejari Certificate: Registered tenancy contract from RERA (mandatory for DEWA activation)
- Passport Copy: For GCC nationals and international investors
- Premise Number: 9-digit number found on Ejari certificate or property entrance
- Tenancy Contract: Original lease agreement with landlord details
For Property Owners:
- Title Deed: Proof of property ownership from Dubai Land Department
- Emirates ID: Valid identification for UAE residents
- Passport Copy: For non-resident property owners
- Authorization Letter: If applying through a representative or property manager
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): From company if property is company-owned
Important Note: The Ejari certificate is mandatory for all tenants. DEWA automatically pulls data from the Ejari system, so ensure your tenancy contract is properly registered with RERA before applying. Without Ejari, your DEWA application will be rejected.
Step-by-Step DEWA Activation Process
DEWA offers multiple activation methods, but the online process through the DEWA Smart App or website is the fastest and most convenient. Here’s how to activate your DEWA connection in 2025:
Method 1: Online Activation via DEWA Smart App (Recommended)
Step 1: Download the DEWA Smart App
Available on iOS App Store and Google Play Store. Download and install the official DEWA Smart application on your smartphone.
Step 2: Access Move-In Service
Open the app and click the hamburger menu (☰) in the top-left corner (English) or top-right (Arabic). Select “Activation of Electricity and Water (Move-in)” from the trending services tab.
Step 3: Choose Application Type
Select “New Customer in Dubai” option (recommended for first-time applicants). This ensures proper account setup without complications.
Step 4: Select Customer Type
Choose from the dropdown menu:
- Expatriate: For tenants and foreign residents
- Investor: For property owners and landlords
- GCC National: For Gulf Cooperation Council citizens
- UAE National: For Emirati citizens
Step 5: Select Account Type
Choose “Tenant” if renting or “Owner” if you own the property.
Step 6: Enter Property Details
Input your Ejari Number (found at top of Ejari certificate) and Premise Number (9-digit number on Ejari or property entrance). The system will automatically validate your tenancy information.
Step 7: Complete Personal Information
Fill in required fields including:
- Full name as per Emirates ID
- Date of birth and passport/Emirates ID expiry date
- Email address (for confirmation notifications)
- Mobile number (UAE-registered number)
- Move-in date (when you need services activated)
Step 8: Review Fee Breakdown
The system displays your total payable amount including security deposit and activation fees. Thukher and Sanad cardholders receive 50% discount on activation charges.
Step 9: Make Payment
Pay securely online using credit/debit card, online banking, or Apple Pay. Payment must be completed before services are activated.
Step 10: Receive Confirmation
Upon successful payment, you’ll receive:
- Contract Account Number via SMS and email
- Payment receipt and confirmation
- Service activation within 15 hours
Method 2: Online via DEWA Website
Visit www.dewa.gov.ae, register or log in using UAE Pass, and follow the same steps as the app process. Upload scanned documents when prompted and complete payment online.
Method 3: In-Person at Customer Happiness Centres
Visit any DEWA Customer Happiness Centre with all physical documents. Staff will assist with application completion, but expect longer processing times compared to online methods.
DEWA Fees and Security Deposits 2025
Understanding the complete fee structure helps you budget accurately for your DEWA connection. Here’s the detailed breakdown of all costs:
| Fee Type | Apartments | Villas | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Deposit | AED 2,000 | AED 4,000 | Fully refundable upon account closure |
| Connection Fee (Small Meters) | AED 100 + VAT | Standard residential units | |
| Connection Fee (Large Meters) | AED 300 + VAT | Larger properties and commercial units | |
| Knowledge Fee | AED 10 | One-time registration fee | |
| Innovation Fee | AED 10 | One-time registration fee | |
| Total Initial Cost (Apartment) | AED 2,130 | – | Approximate (excluding VAT) |
| Total Initial Cost (Villa) | – | AED 4,130 | Approximate (excluding VAT) |
Special Discounts Available:
Thukher and Sanad cardholders (UAE government employee benefit programs) receive 50% discount on all activation and deactivation charges. The discount is automatically applied when you provide your card details during registration.
DEWA Smart App: Essential Features for Property Owners
The DEWA Smart App is your central hub for managing all utility services. Beyond initial activation, the app provides comprehensive features for ongoing account management:
Key Features:
- Bill Payment: Pay DEWA bills instantly using credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or online banking. Set up auto-pay for recurring payments.
- Usage Monitoring: Track real-time electricity and water consumption. Compare your usage with neighborhood averages to identify savings opportunities.
- Smart Response: Report service interruptions instantly and track complaint status in real-time with automated updates.
- Multiple Account Management: Control multiple properties from one dashboard—ideal for property investors managing rental portfolios.
- Move-In/Move-Out Services: Activate new connections or close accounts when relocating without visiting physical offices.
- Away Mode: Monitor consumption remotely when traveling. Receive alerts for unusual usage patterns that may indicate leaks or issues.
- High Usage Alerts: Get notifications when consumption exceeds normal patterns, helping prevent surprise bills and identify potential problems.
- EV Charging Locator: Find nearby electric vehicle charging stations across Dubai with real-time availability.
- DEWA Store: Access exclusive discounts on smart home devices, healthcare services, shopping, and home maintenance.
- Bill History: Download and review past statements for expense tracking and tax purposes.
Property investors working with Red Horizon Dubai can streamline multiple property management tasks through the DEWA app, particularly when managing rental income and tenant utility transfers.
Understanding the 5% Housing Fee on DEWA Bills
One often-overlooked component of DEWA bills is the Dubai Municipality Housing Fee—a mandatory 5% charge calculated on your property’s annual rental value. This fee funds essential municipal services and appears automatically on your monthly DEWA bill.
What the Housing Fee Covers:
- Infrastructure Maintenance: Roads, bridges, and public transportation systems
- Waste Management: Garbage collection and recycling programs
- Public Parks: Maintenance of recreational facilities and green spaces
- Street Cleaning: Regular cleaning and sanitation services
- Food Safety: Inspection and regulation of food establishments
- Security Services: Community safety and monitoring systems
How It’s Calculated:
Example Calculation:
For Tenants:
Annual Rent: AED 80,000
Housing Fee: AED 80,000 × 5% = AED 4,000/year
Monthly Payment: AED 4,000 ÷ 12 = AED 333/month
For Property Owners:
Estimated Rental Value (per RERA): AED 100,000
Housing Fee: AED 100,000 × 5% = AED 5,000/year
Monthly Payment: AED 5,000 ÷ 12 = AED 417/month
Who Pays the Housing Fee?
- Tenants: Pay 5% of their actual annual rent as stated in Ejari contract
- Property Owners (Occupied): Pay 5% based on RERA rental index valuation
- Property Owners (Vacant): Pay 5% based on estimated market rental value
- UAE Nationals: Exempt from housing fee for owner-occupied properties
Adjusting Your Housing Fee:
If your rent changes due to contract renewal or market adjustments, you must update your housing fee calculation to avoid overpaying or underpaying:
- Visit Dubai Municipality online portal or call 800-900
- Navigate to “Individual Services” → “Dubai Municipality Fee”
- Submit updated Ejari certificate and DEWA bill
- Adjustment reflected in next DEWA bill within 3 working days
- Overpaid amounts refunded as DEWA account credit
Essential Tips for Smooth DEWA Activation
Before Applying:
- Register Ejari First: Complete Ejari registration before DEWA application—this is mandatory and non-negotiable.
- Verify Premise Number: Double-check the 9-digit premise number on your Ejari certificate matches property entrance markings.
- Scan Documents Clearly: Ensure Emirates ID and passport copies are high-quality scans—blurry documents cause delays.
- Check Move-In Date: Schedule activation for your actual move-in date to avoid paying bills before occupancy.
- Budget Properly: Set aside AED 2,130 (apartments) or AED 4,130 (villas) for initial costs plus first month’s housing fee.
During Application:
- Use Exact Names: Enter names exactly as they appear on Emirates ID—mismatches cause application rejection.
- Verify Contact Information: Provide active UAE mobile number and regularly-checked email for confirmation messages.
- Apply as “New Customer”: Even if property had previous DEWA connection, always select “New Customer in Dubai” option.
- Save Reference Number: Keep application reference number for tracking and support inquiries.
- Complete Payment Immediately: Don’t delay payment after application—your 15-hour activation clock starts after payment confirmation.
After Activation:
- Download DEWA App: Install immediately to monitor consumption and receive billing alerts.
- Set Payment Reminders: DEWA disconnects services 14 days after bill due date—set auto-pay or calendar reminders.
- Monitor First Bill: Verify housing fee calculation matches your rental contract amount.
- Enable Away Mode: If traveling frequently, activate DEWA Away Mode to monitor consumption remotely.
- Keep Deposit Receipt: Store securely for refund processing when you eventually close your account.
Common DEWA Connection Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Application Rejected | Verify Ejari number is valid and registered. Check that premise number matches Ejari certificate exactly. |
| Delayed Activation (>15 hours) | Contact DEWA support at 04-601-9999. Verify payment was successfully processed and not pending. |
| Incorrect Housing Fee Amount | Submit fee adjustment request via Dubai Municipality portal with updated Ejari showing correct rent amount. |
| Payment Declined | Check international payment is enabled on card. Try alternative payment method or contact bank to authorize payment. |
| Cannot Find Premise Number | Check property entrance door frame or utility box. Premise number also appears on Ejari certificate header. |
| No Confirmation Received | Check spam/junk email folders. Verify mobile number is correct. Contact DEWA support with reference number. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does DEWA activation take in 2025?
DEWA guarantees activation within 15 working hours after payment confirmation. Most activations complete within 8-12 hours. Services activate on your specified move-in date if you schedule in advance.
Can I transfer my DEWA account to a new property?
No, DEWA accounts cannot be transferred between properties. You must close your existing account (move-out) and open a new account (move-in) for your new address. Your security deposit from the old property will be refunded and required again for the new property.
Is Ejari mandatory for DEWA connection?
Yes, Ejari registration is absolutely mandatory for all tenants. DEWA automatically pulls tenancy data from the Ejari system. Without valid Ejari, your DEWA application will be rejected. Only properties in certain Free Zones are exempt from Ejari requirements.
When will I get my security deposit refund?
Security deposit refunds process within 3-6 business days after account closure and final bill settlement. You can choose refund method: bank transfer (IBAN – free), cheque, or Western Union (USD 5 or 1% fee, whichever is higher). Ensure all outstanding bills are paid before requesting refund.
What happens if I don’t pay my DEWA bill on time?
DEWA sends 3 payment reminders before disconnection. Services are disconnected 14 days after the due date if bills remain unpaid. Late payment penalties apply. After disconnection, services reconnect within 4 hours of bill settlement. Repeated late payments may result in higher security deposit requirements.
Can I have multiple DEWA accounts?
Yes, if you own or rent multiple properties in Dubai, you can have separate DEWA accounts for each property. The DEWA Smart App allows you to manage all accounts from one dashboard. Each property requires its own security deposit and generates separate bills.
How can I reduce my DEWA bill?
Key strategies include: Set AC thermostat to 24°C, use LED lighting, run appliances during off-peak hours (before 12 PM or after 6 PM), fix water leaks promptly, enable DEWA Away Mode when traveling, and monitor consumption through the DEWA app to identify usage patterns. DEWA charges higher rates during peak hours (12 PM – 6 PM).
Who is exempt from the housing fee?
Only UAE nationals living in their own properties are exempt from the 5% housing fee. All expatriates—whether tenants or property owners—must pay the housing fee. There are no other exemptions based on property value, location, or tenant nationality.
DEWA Customer Support Contacts
24/7 Customer Service:
- Phone: 04-601-9999 (24/7 hotline)
- Email: customercare@dewa.gov.ae
- Website: www.dewa.gov.ae
- WhatsApp: Bill payment and inquiries available
- AI Chatbot: Available on website (Arabic and English)
- Dubai Municipality (Housing Fee): 800-900
- Emergency Outages: 991 (electricity) | 922 (water)
DEWA Management for Property Investors
For international investors purchasing Dubai properties, proper DEWA account management is crucial for maximizing rental income and maintaining tenant satisfaction. Here’s what investors need to know:
Landlord Responsibilities:
- Account Transition: Ensure previous tenant closes DEWA before new tenant activates to avoid overlapping charges
- Vacant Property Fees: Maintain DEWA connection for vacant properties—landlord pays housing fee based on RERA rental index
- Utility Responsibility: Clearly specify in lease agreement whether utilities are tenant or landlord responsibility
- Multiple Properties: Use DEWA app to monitor all investment properties from single dashboard
- Furnished Rentals: For holiday homes or serviced apartments, landlord typically maintains DEWA in their name with costs passed to tenants
Red Horizon Dubai provides comprehensive property management services for investors, including coordination of DEWA activations, tenant handovers, and ensuring smooth utility transitions that protect your investment and maintain positive tenant relationships.
Ready to Invest in Dubai Real Estate?
Understanding DEWA connections is just one piece of successful property investment in Dubai. Red Horizon Dubai offers end-to-end support for international investors—from property selection and financing to utility setup and ongoing management.
Our expert team handles all administrative requirements including DEWA coordination, Ejari registration, and tenant management, allowing you to focus on building your Dubai property portfolio while we manage the details.
Conclusion
Setting up your DEWA connection doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper documentation, understanding of the fee structure, and use of DEWA’s digital platforms, you can activate your electricity and water services within 15 hours and manage your account efficiently from anywhere in the world.
The key to smooth DEWA activation is preparation: ensure your Ejari is registered, have all documents ready, understand the total costs including security deposits and housing fees, and leverage the DEWA Smart App for ongoing management. Whether you’re a new tenant, property owner, or international investor building a Dubai portfolio, mastering the DEWA process is essential for successful property management.
Remember that your security deposit is fully refundable, the housing fee directly funds services that maintain Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, and DEWA’s 24/7 support ensures you’re never alone in navigating the system. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to handle every aspect of your DEWA connection with confidence.
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