What is DEWA in Dubai, and how can one easily pay the utility bills?

Connecting utilities is one of the important stages when moving into an apartment in Dubai. Responsible for this task in the emirate is the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, known as DEWA – a governmental entity and the only provider of these services. In this article, we delve further on this company, as well as the steps that connect utilities in an apartment in Dubai.

DEWA, or the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, is a governmental institution tasked with providing electricity and water services to all residents and enterprises in Dubai. Established in 1992, the company has since become one of the primary elements of Dubai's economy and foundational infrastructure. DEWA serves as the principal provider of electricity and water in the emirate.

The company employs cutting-edge developments in the realm of alternative, renewable energy sources. At the core of DEWA's development strategy lies a commitment to environmental stewardship. Already, the company has established an expansive solar panel platform to cater to residents' needs. Additionally, an artificial intelligence system streamlines billing for individuals and businesses.

Company's academy  

To cultivate talents and young professionals equipped with futuristic thinking, DEWA has inaugurated the DEWA Academy. The program spans two years, during which students study:

• Safety engineering techniques in construction works. 
• Economics of the engineering industry. 
• Use of modern technologies. 
• Development of engineering projects.

Further details can be found on the website.

Services offered by the company  

Related to bills  

DEWA provides services related to electricity and water supply, issuing bills to various categories of consumers: governmental entities, enterprises, and individuals – both locals and expatriates. The primary services include:

• Facilitating bill payment. 
• Providing channels for refunds.
• Issuing debt-free certificates. 
• Updating data.

Separate from bills  

These services encompass:

• Activation of electricity and water within hours after moving into an apartment. This requires payment of a security deposit. For queries or difficulties, call 991. 
• Move out – request for disconnection of utility services upon departure. This is possible only when all bills are fully settled. 
• Move to – request for reconnection at a different location upon relocation.
• Informing clients about the status of services, issues, and timelines for resolution. 
• For local residents: supplying temporary lighting for tents during short periods for celebration or mourning events. 
• Disconnection of utility services for delays in payment. Upon settling the debt, service restoration occurs within 4 hours. Any overpayment is refunded.
• Issuance of debt-free certificates upon request. The document is valid for one month.

Connection costs  

Non-refundable fees include:

• Registration and excise – $9. 
• The cost of water and electricity connection depends on the area of the premises – from $28 to $82.

There is also a refundable security deposit, which can be returned upon relocation. Its value ranges from $545 to $1,090, depending on the type of building.

To retrieve the deposit, visit any Western Union branch. Here's how:

1. Submit an application on the DEWA website or app. 
2. Receive notification that the refund is ready.
3. Collect the funds from any Western Union branch.

By account creation  

Both property owners and tenants can independently connect utilities. To do this, fill out the form on the official DEWA website, where you will need to specify:

1. Property ownership details if you are the owner.
2. If you are a tenant, you need to provide the identification number or ID in Ejari – an online system for monitoring lease contracts. Typically, tenants' DEWA accounts are automatically created after registration in Ejari. After authorization, the user receives an SMS notification and an email with a step-by-step instruction for further payment of the security deposit. If you haven't received a notification, you can fill out the application online on the website or in the app, or personally visit the nearest DEWA service center.

Additionally, you should provide the DEWA Premise Number – 9 digits usually indicated on the gates upon entry into the building or on the door of the apartment.

In addition to the completed form, the following documents will be required:

• copies of the passports of the owner and the tenant; 
• a copy of the signed lease agreement; 
• certificate of ownership or sales contract; 
• notarized power of attorney if the applicant is absent.

Visiting a special center  

You can find the addresses of the nearest DEWA offices and their working hours on the official DEWA website under the «Locations» section. Upon personal appearance, you will need to bring the same set of documents: copies of passports, lease agreement, certificate of ownership or sales contract, your ID, and the nine-digit premise number. The staff will register you if you haven't done so already and assist you in paying the bills.

What's Included in the DEWA payment document  

The DEWA payment document encompasses:

• water meter readings and fuel surcharge; 
• electricity meter readings and fuel surcharge; 
• sewage charges; 
• 5% of the annual property lease value.

In certain areas like Dubai Marina, air conditioning charges are billed separately. However, in most cases, they are included in the electricity charges.

To calculate monthly resource consumption, slab tariff and fuel tariff are employed. Depending on the volume of water or electricity consumed each month, their costs under the tariff increase or decrease accordingly. Additionally, a fuel surcharge is factored in – this amount is contingent upon the fuel prices utilized at DEWA's generating stations.

Payment methods  

Consumers have a wide array of payment methods available for settling their DEWA bills:

Bank. A conventional method for many to settle utility bills. One can visit a bank branch in person, make payments through the bank's online application, or set up automatic monthly debits from their account. The list of banks accepting payments can be found on the official DEWA website.

Etisalat and Emirates NBD terminals. Payment terminals located throughout the UAE. These terminals accept cash payments only.

DEWA smart app. Payment through the DEWA Smart App, available on both the App Store and Google Play.

DEWA website. Bills can be paid on the official DEWA website using online payment, albeit exclusively with Gulf Cooperation Council bank cards.

MPay. Payments for utility services can be conducted via SMS by registering on the website.

EasyPay. An online service for convenient and swift DEWA bill payments. To use EasyPay, one needs to log in to the DEWA website, navigate to EasyPay, and obtain their number. This number is then input into the Dubai Now or Empay Smart applications, and payments can be made using any linked card on Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or through the Noqodi wallet.

Noqodi Net Banking. An online payment system available as an electronic wallet and internet banking.

Discontinuing DEWA services is possible both online and offline – either through the official website or by visiting the nearest customer service center.

Online  

Begin by visiting the DEWA website's «Deactivation of Electricity and Water» section. Enter your account number, connection date, contact telephone number, and preferred method of deposit refund. Upon completing the form, you will receive an SMS or confirmation email. Additionally, if necessary, you can request a certificate confirming your departure and absence of outstanding bills. This service entails an approximate fee of $14.

Offline  

To discontinue DEWA services, you can also visit a service center. Specialists will assist you promptly and address any questions you may have.

Customer support service  

DEWA is a customer-centric organization. Being the sole provider of utility services, it has established a Customer Service Center operating 24/7. Clients can reach out at any time with inquiries and receive quick responses.

For instance, you can inquire about outstanding bills or verify the amounts of recent payments. Furthermore, whether moving in, relocating, or vacating a property, requests for activation, disconnection, or reconnection of utility services can be directed through customer support. Additionally, DEWA's official website features a specialized chatbot, «Rammas,» designed to interact with consumers and provide answers to frequently asked questions.

Phone: +971(4) 601-9999

Email: customercare@dewa.gov.ae

Conclusion  

If you are thinking about properties for sale in Dubai, but not sure where to begin, feel free to dial +971 (4) 450-2640, and our brokers will provide you with a consultation. They will assist in selecting a suitable option tailored to your requirements, arrange viewings, and help with transaction formalities.