How To Set Up Utility Connections In Dubai?

Moving to Dubai is an exciting adventure, but setting up utilities can be daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Knowing how to set up utilities in Dubai efficiently can help you avoid unnecessary delays and make your transition to your new home seamless. This guide covers each step of the utility setup process, from electricity and water to gas connections, along with costs, registration fees, and essential details for a smooth setup.

Setting Up Electricity and Water – DEWA Connection

In Dubai, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is responsible for electricity and water services. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up utilities in Dubai through DEWA:

Setting Up DEWA Account Online

• Visit the official DEWA website and navigate to the Activation of Electricity and Water (Move-in) section for new account setup.
• Log in to your DEWA account (required for online requests).
• For the Customer Type field, select the appropriate option: 
  • Expatriate
  • GCC National
  • Investor
  • UAE National
• In the Account Type field, choose whether you are an Owner or Tenant.
• Tenants: Enter the premises’ Ejari number if located outside a Free Zone.
  • Note: Commercial Free Zones in Dubai are exempt from Ejari, so select I don’t have Ejari if applicable.
• Tenants in Free Zones: Provide the Tenancy Contract Number, Contract Start and End Dates, Contract Value, number of rooms, and premises number instead of an Ejari number.
• Add the DEWA premise number for your location.
• After completing all required fields, click Continue and follow the remaining steps to complete your DEWA Move-in account setup. 

Once completed, DEWA will send an email and SMS with your Contract Account Number and security deposit amount.

Required Documents

To set up a new DEWA account in Dubai, the following documents are required:

• Homeowners: Valid Title Deed
• Dubai Residents: Emirates ID
• Commercial and Industrial Customers: Trade Licence
• GCC Nationals or Investors: Passport copy

DEWA Registration Fee

DEWA charges an activation fee of AED 100 for electricity and AED 10 for water, along with AED 10 for the administration fee and AED 20 for knowledge and innovation fees. These fees are separate from your monthly utility bills.

How to Apply for DEWA Account Transfer Online?

If you’re moving to a new home in Dubai, transferring your DEWA account to your new address is a straightforward process, known as the “Transfer of Electricity/Water (Move-To) Service.” Below is a step-by-step guide to help you transfer, activate, and, if necessary, deactivate your DEWA account.

Submit an Online Application

To transfer your existing DEWA account to a new address, follow these steps:

• Log In: Access your DEWA account using your DEWA ID or UAE Pass.
• Enter Details: Provide the Ejari number and premise number of your new residence.
• Include Previous Details: Input the Contract Account number of your current residence and the move-out date.
• Deactivation of Old Address: DEWA will deactivate electricity and water at your old address on the specified move-out date, completing the transfer process.

Track Your Application

After submitting the transfer application, you will receive a reference number to monitor the status. Use your DEWA ID and password to log in and track the progress of your request if submitted online.

Activation of DEWA Account at New Address

Once your application is processed, DEWA will notify you via email and SMS confirming successful activation at your new address. You can also log in to the DEWA website to view updated account details.

Transfer Process via Customer Happiness Centers

If you prefer in-person assistance, you can visit any DEWA Customer Happiness Centre to transfer your DEWA account.

1. Notify DEWA: Visit a Customer Happiness Center and inform them about the transfer.
2. Fill Out Application Form: Obtain and complete an application form with accurate details, including:
   1. Ejari number and premise number of your new residence.
   2. Contract Account number and move-out date of your current residence.
3. Submit and Track: After submission, you’ll receive a reference number to track your application status.

How to Deactivate Your DEWA Account (Move-Out)

If you’re leaving your residence in Dubai, you may wish to deactivate your DEWA account. Here’s how to handle DEWA deactivation in Dubai, including final bill settlement and security deposit refunds.

Online Procedure for DEWA Deactivation (Move-Out)

1. Log In: Use your DEWA ID or UAE Pass to log in.
2. Select Contract Account: Choose the 10-digit DEWA Contract Account number for the deactivation request.
3. Outstanding Payments: Pay any pending bill amounts.
4. Choose Move-Out Date: Select a date for deactivation; DEWA staff will take final readings on that day.
5. Refund Method: Select a security deposit refund method, choosing from bank transfer, cheque, or Western Union.
6. Submit Application: Submit your deactivation request, and the final bill will be processed within 24 hours, sent to your registered email.

Online Procedure Without Login

If you prefer not to log in, use this alternative online option:

• Enter your 10-digit DEWA Contract Account number and 9-digit DEWA premise number.
• An OTP (one-time password) will be sent to your registered email or mobile number.
• Follow the same steps to pay outstanding bills, choose a move-out date, and select a security deposit refund method.

DEWA Move-Out Account Fees

Below are the charges for deactivating a DEWA account in Dubai:

• AED 100 for disconnecting electricity and water for small meters
• AED 300 for disconnecting electricity and water for large meters
• AED 10 knowledge fee
• AED 10 innovation fee

Note: Thukher and Sanad cardholders are eligible for a 50% discount on deactivation charges.

Gas Connection Setup in Dubai

If you’re wondering how to get a gas connection in Dubai, it depends on your area and building. Here’s the process you can follow to set up the gas connection.

Contact the Gas Provider

Common gas providers include Emarat, Lootah, and Dubai Gas. Your building management often recommends a specific provider. Contact the recommended provider to initiate the connection setup.

Documents Required for Gas Connection

To apply for a gas connection, you’ll need:

• Emirates ID or passport copy
• Tenancy contract
• Completed application form provided by the gas company

Installation and Safety Check

After your application is submitted, a technician will visit to install and test the connection for safety. It typically takes 1-2 business days for the process, and the setup fee will depend on the provider and location.

Gas Connection Cost

Gas is usually charged monthly and varies depending on usage. On average, monthly utility costs (including DEWA and gas) for a one-bedroom apartment are around AED 500-800, but costs can be higher for larger homes or more intensive usage.

Setting Up Internet, TV, and Landline Services

Dubai offers various telecom providers, primarily du and Etisalat, which provide packages combining internet, TV, and landline services. Here’s how to set up utilities in Dubai for telecommunications:

Selecting a Provider and Package

Choose between du and Etisalat by comparing package deals that best suit your needs. Both offer bundled services, often including high-speed internet, TV channels, and a landline. Ensure you check for promotions, as introductory offers can provide significant savings.

Documents Required

To register, provide the following:

• Emirates ID
• Tenancy contract
• DEWA account number

Installation

Installation takes about 1-3 days from registration. The provider will arrange an appointment to set up the services at your residence. Note that while most packages come with installation fees, promotional offers may waive them.

Registering for Cooling Services (If Applicable)

Many buildings in Dubai, especially in newer developments, have district cooling systems provided by companies like Empower or Emicool. This is an additional utility you’ll need to register for if your building uses district cooling.

Contact the Cooling Service Provider

Ask your building management which cooling provider is associated with your property in Dubai. Once identified, you can set up an account with that provider.

Documentation and Security Deposit

Similar to other utility services, you’ll need an Emirates ID, tenancy contract, and DEWA account number. District cooling providers require a security deposit, generally around AED 2,000, which will be refunded upon the contract’s end.

Activation Timeline

District cooling activation can take 1-2 days. Once activated, this service helps maintain optimal indoor temperatures in your home, especially crucial during Dubai’s summer months.