If you’re a newcomer to Dubai or simply relocating within the Emirate, setting up your electricity and water connections should be high on your priority list & these essential services are provided by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority or DEWA for short.
In this comprehensive guide to DEWA, we’ll provide you with all the essential information about the organization, its services, a breakdown of the DEWA bill, and how to establish or terminate your connection.
1. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority
Established on January 1, 1992, by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DEWA was created to consolidate the previously separate electricity and water departments.
Today, DEWA stands as a global leader in utility services. In 2018, it boasted a 95% customer satisfaction rate, serving over 880,000 customers. Notably, DEWA earned top global rankings in 2018 and 2019 in the World Bank’s Business report.
Now, let’s delve into the range of services provided by DEWA in Dubai.
2. Services Offered By DEWA
DEWA caters to both individual consumers and larger corporate entities. For individual users, DEWA offers the following services:
– Activation of Electricity/Water (Move In)
– De-Activation of Electricity/Water (Move Out)
– Transfer of Electricity/Water (Move To)
– Bill Payment and Enquiries
In addition to these services, DEWA actively promotes the utilization of renewable resources, such as solar energy.
2.1 Shams DUBAI
Shams Dubai is DEWA’s initiative aimed at advancing the use of solar energy in Dubai and fostering the adoption of clean, renewable energy sources.
Under the guidelines of Executive Council Registration 46 of 2014, Shams Dubai aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum to make Dubai one of the world’s smartest cities.
Property owners can connect their Photovoltaic (PV) systems to the DEWA grid, leading to reduced utility costs and the export of surplus electricity.
The process of installing solar energy involves four key stages:
– Stage 1: Obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
– Stage 2: Procuring Design Approval
– Stage 3: Inspection and Connection
– Stage 4: Generation
Contractors can apply for NOCs directly on the power company’s website using their login credentials. There are no service charges for applying, but a one-time connection fee of AED 1,500 applies when going solar with DEWA.
2.2 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EV Green Charger)
In line with its commitment to sustainability, DEWA offers electric vehicle charging services. As of October 2018, the emirate boasts 200 EV Green Charger stations, promoting eco-friendly modes of transportation and reducing carbon emissions.
Electric vehicle owners can obtain, replace, or cancel an EV Green Charger Card through the website’s ‘EV Charger Card Services’ page.
Notably, non-commercial electric vehicle owners can enjoy free charging services at any EV station until January 31, 2021, provided they register their vehicles.
2.3 DEWA Customer Service
DEWA’s “Customer Happiness Centres” are conveniently located throughout the emirate, staffed by highly trained employees ready to assist customers with their inquiries and issues.
2.4 DEWA Academy
DEWA operates its Vocational Academy to train Emirati students. The academy’s goal is to foster nationalization in entry-level DEWA positions across all departments.
In collaboration with the UK’s Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC), students receive academic and on-field training in various areas, including production, transmission, and energy distribution. Graduates receive their diplomas from BTEC.
Visit DEWA’s website’s ‘Student’ section to apply for scholarships or internships at the company.
3. DEWA For Builders
DEWA also serves builders by issuing NOCs and providing water and power for construction projects. Builders can apply for new connections online with their DEWA login credentials on the ‘Getting Electricity Connections’ page in the ‘Builder’ section of the DEWA website.
NOCs can also be obtained online without any application charges.
4. How to Get a DEWA Connection
Setting up a DEWA connection is straightforward. You need to complete the application form, submit the required documents, and pay the security deposit along with DEWA connection fees.
5. Documents Required
For Move-In services, you’ll need the following documents:
– Title deeds
– Copies of passports for both tenant and landlord
– Tenancy contract
If the applicant is abroad, an authorization letter may also be necessary. Obtain the ‘Activation of Electricity and Water Service for Residential Expatriate Customers’ application form from DEWA’s official website under the ‘Forms and Documents’ section.
6. Important Terms Explained
Let’s clarify a couple of essential terms:
6.1 What is Premise Number in DEWA?
The premise number is typically found at the property’s entrance gate where you plan to reside.
6.2 What is Ejari?
Ejari differs from the premise number. After selecting an apartment or villa in Dubai, you must register the tenancy contract online with the land department, known as Ejari. This registration process is straightforward and results in a unique barcode valid throughout the contract’s duration.
Learn in depth about Ejari with our detailed guide.
7. Fees Involved
Regardless of your property type, a non-refundable activation fee of AED 110 (for small meters) applies.
Apartments require a security deposit of AED 2,000, while villas require AED 4,000. Additionally, an additional Knowledge and Innovation fee is applicable.
8. How Do I Pay DEWA Charges/Bills?
DEWA offers multiple payment methods for setup charges and regular bills, including:
– It’s website or app
– Credit card or online banking service
– A variety of banks
– MPay website or application
– Cash payments at DEWA centers, Etisalat payment machines, ZOOM supermarkets, or ENOC or EPPCO petrol stations.
Once you’ve submitted your documents, application form, and paid the required fees, your connection will be activated within 24 hours.
9. Understanding the DEWA Bill
Your bill comprises charges for water, electricity, sewerage, and housing fees. Property owners bear the housing fee, but tenants are responsible for 5%. DEWA charges standard per-unit rates as follows:
– Electricity – AED 23 fils
– Water – AED 3 fils
– Sewerage – AED 0.5 fils
Electricity charges apply for consumption below 2000KWh per month; consumption exceeding 6000KWh incurs charges of AED 38 fils per unit. Expect higher bills in summer due to increased cooling appliance usage and increased water consumption for properties with pools and gardens.
10. Procedures for Cancellation
Cancellation of your account is straightforward and can be done online or by visiting your nearest Customer Happiness Centre.
Simply log in to the website, go to the ‘Deactivation of Electricity and Water’ page under ‘Quick Services,’ select your contract account, indicate whether a clearance certificate is required, choose the Move-Out date, provide your contact number, and select your deposit refund method.
Upon completion, click ‘Submit’ to receive your Move-Out notification number via email or SMS. If you require a clearance certificate, a fee of AED 50 plus VAT applies, and you’ll be eligible for a security deposit refund with your original receipt.
11. Contacting DEWA
You can reach out to DEWA through various means:
– Website
– Emergency Call Centre (for technical incidents): 991
– Customer Care Centre (for billing inquiries): +971-4-601-9999
– Fax: +971-4-324-8111
– Email: customercare@dewa.gov.ae
Additionally, you can engage with ‘Rammas,’ DEWA’s chatbot, on their website for assistance with DEWA bill inquiries in both English and Arabic.
DEWA plays a pivotal role in Dubai’s utility services landscape, offering a wide range of services to cater to the needs of residents, businesses, and builders.
Understanding DEWA’s services, fees, and payment methods ensures a seamless experience in managing your electricity and water connections in Dubai.
For further assistance or inquiries, do not hesitate to reach out through their various contact channels or let us help you by reaching out here
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