How to apply for DEWA in Dubai: Step-by-step account setup

Moving into a new home in Dubai? Whether you're arriving as a fresh face in the city or simply shifting addresses, one of the first things you'll need to do is set up your water and electricity services. And in Dubai, that means getting acquainted with DEWA - the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. 

Here’s everything you need to know to get your DEWA account online and running, from the documents you'll need to how to pay your first bill. 

What is DEWA, and why do you need it? 

Before we explain the setup, let’s get the basics covered. DEWA is Dubai’s official utility provider, responsible for all things electricity and water. It was founded in 1992 by merging the city’s water and power departments, and today, it’s one of the most efficient providers in the world. 

So far, DEWA has served over a million happy customers and counting. If you're moving into a Dubai property, activating your DEWA connection is essential to get your water and electricity flowing.  

What services does DEWA offer? 

DEWA is more than just a utility provider, it’s your go-to service for everything from setting up connections to handling payments and transfers smoothly, whether you’re settling into a new home or closing one out. Here's what you can do with your DEWA account: 

• Activate or deactivate electricity and water services 
• Transfer services when moving to a new home 
• Check and pay your bills 
• Access renewable energy options like solar power 

How to set up your DEWA account online 

Ready to get connected? Here’s the step-by-step to activate your DEWA account from your laptop or phone. 

1. Register your tenancy contract with Ejari

This is the first (and most important) step. DEWA uses Ejari’s system to verify that you legally live at the property, so make sure your lease is officially registered. 

2. Check for outstanding bills

Your real estate agent can help with this. If the previous tenant left any unpaid charges, your landlord must clear them before you can proceed. 

3. Pay the security deposit

• AED 2,000 for apartments
• AED 4,000 for villas

This is refundable when you deactivate the account. 

4. Settle the connection fees  

Once you’ve registered and paid the charges, your connection usually goes live on the date you’ve selected.

How much does DEWA activation cost? 

Setting up your DEWA connection comes with a one-time activation fee, which varies depending on the type of meter installed in your property. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect: 

Activation Fees 

• For standard (small capacity) metres: The total fee is AED 130 + VAT, which includes: 
• AED 100 for electricity and water connection 
• AED 10 registration fee 
• AED 10 knowledge fee 
• AED 10 innovation fee 
• For high-capacity (large) meters: The activation fee is AED 300 + VAT 

Additionally, a 50% discount on activation fees is granted to Thukher and Sanad cardholders. These are government-issued benefit cards provided to qualifying UAE nationals, such as senior citizens or individuals with special needs, offering reduced rates on a range of public services, including utilities.

What documents do you need? 

To create your account, you’ll need to provide just a few essentials. DEWA will automatically pull most of the information from your Ejari registration. 

Here’s what you need: 

• Your Emirates ID 
• Your residence visa 
• Your DEWA 9-digit premise number (usually found on the meter or provided by your landlord/agent) 

How to check and pay your DEWA bills online 

Once you're all set up, managing your account is a breeze. 

You can: 

• Visit the DEWA website or use the mobile app 
• Log in with your DEWA account number 
• Head to the “Billing” section to check or pay your bill 

Payment options are flexible, too. Choose what suits you best: 

• DEWA website or mobile app (the quickest option) 
• Credit card or online banking through major UAE banks like ADCB, Dubai Islamic Bank, and more 
• Cash payments at DEWA centres, ENOC/EPPCO stations, ZOOM stores, and Etisalat kiosks 

What’s the difference between all these numbers? 

If you’re confused about DEWA’s account IDs, you’re not alone. Here’s a quick breakdown: 

• DEWA Account Number: This is specific to your current property. 
• Business Partner Number: This stays the same across all properties you own or rent. 
• Premise Number: A 9-digit code linked to your property’s physical location. 

You’ll need these when paying bills or making inquiries. 

Need help? 

DEWA has a 24/7 AI-powered chatbot that answers your questions in both Arabic and English. Whether you're checking your bill or troubleshooting a connection issue, help is just a few taps away. 

Setting up your DEWA account is an essential part of moving into a new home in Dubai and thankfully, the process is fast, clear, and easily managed online. With the right documents and a simple application, your utilities can be activated with minimal effort. 

Whether you needed clarity on how to apply for DEWA, check your bill, or manage payments digitally, we hope this guide has made things easier to understand. 

If you're relocating or preparing a property for occupancy, our team is ready to assist with everything from start to finish. 

Contact Dacha Real Estate today to ensure your move is smooth, well-prepared, and fully connected. 

Alessia Sheglova

CEO

Alessia Sheglova is the CEO of Dacha Real Estate and one of the most inspiring l… More

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