How to set up DEWA for your new apartment

DEWA — the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority — is the sole provider of electricity and water for residential properties in Dubai. Setting up your DEWA account is one of the first practical steps after registering Ejari, and getting it done quickly means you can move into a property that actually has power and water.

What you need before applying

DEWA requires specific documents and a security deposit before activating your account. You cannot proceed without these:

• Valid Ejari certificate (your tenancy contract must be registered — DEWA will verify the Ejari number)
• Emirates ID (original or clear copy)
• DEWA premises number (found in the property details or on any previous DEWA bill for that unit)
• Security deposit payment (AED 2,000 for apartments and studios; AED 4,000 for villas)

How to register via the DEWA app

1. 1

   Download the DEWA app from the App Store or Google Play, or visit the DEWA website at dewa.gov.ae.

2. 2

   Create a DEWA account using your Emirates ID number and email address.

3. 3

   Log in and tap 'Move In' or 'New Connection' on the home screen.

4. 4

   Enter your Ejari number. DEWA will validate this against the DLD database automatically.

5. 5

   Enter the DEWA premises number for your apartment.

6. 6

   Upload your Emirates ID copy.

7. 7

   Select your preferred activation date (see timing note below).

8. 8

   Proceed to payment: pay the security deposit (AED 2,000 or AED 4,000) plus any outstanding balance on the premises.

9. 9

   Submit the application. You will receive a confirmation SMS and email.

10. 10

    DEWA will activate the connection on your requested date.

Activation timing

If you submit your DEWA application online before 2:00pm on a business day, activation typically occurs on the same day. Applications submitted after 2:00pm are usually activated the following business day. DEWA does not process activations on Fridays or public holidays, so plan accordingly if your move-in date falls near a weekend.

Understanding your DEWA green bill

DEWA bills are known as 'green bills' and are issued monthly. Your bill shows your electricity consumption (in kilowatt-hours) and water consumption (in imperial gallons) for the month, along with applicable tariffs, fuel surcharge, and the Dubai municipality fee.

Dubai uses a tiered tariff system — the more you consume, the higher the per-unit rate. For apartments, the standard residential rate starts at around AED 0.23 per kWh for the first 2,000 kWh per month, rising to AED 0.38 per kWh for consumption above 10,000 kWh. Water is charged separately. Bills are payable within 30 days of issue; late payment attracts a disconnection notice.

How to get your DEWA deposit back when moving out

When your tenancy ends and you vacate the property, you need to formally close your DEWA account (known as a 'Move Out' request). To do this, log in to the DEWA app or website, navigate to 'Move Out', and submit the request with your Emirates ID and premises details. A final meter reading will be taken, and your final bill will be calculated.

Once the final bill is settled, DEWA will refund your security deposit. The refund is typically processed within 30 days and returned to the bank account or payment method you specify. If you paid by credit card, it returns to that card. Alternatively, you can request a cheque.

Do not move out without formally closing your DEWA account. If the account remains open after your tenancy ends, you may continue to be billed for the property's consumption until the account is closed in your name.