A Complete Guide to DEWA: How to Open an Account in Dubai

A Complete Guide to DEWA: How to Open an Account in Dubai

So, you’ve just landed in Dubai or maybe you’re moving into a new home in this glittering city. You’ve got the keys in hand, the boxes are packed, but… surprise! No electricity, no water, no AC. Welcome to the first real task of adulting in Dubai—opening your DEWA account.

Whether you're a tenant, a homeowner, or an expat figuring things out, this guide is for you. Let me walk you through how to open a DEWA account without turning it into a headache.

What Even Is DEWA, and Why Should You Care?

DEWA stands for Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. It’s basically the organization that keeps your taps running and lights glowing. No DEWA account = no water + no electricity = not fun, especially in Dubai's summer heat.

If you’re moving into a new place—apartment, villa, even an office—you need to register with DEWA to get your utilities going. They’ll provide you with a new connection (or transfer an existing one to your name), bill you monthly for your usage, and let you manage everything online.

So yeah, it's not optional. You need DEWA.

So Who Needs a DEWA Account Anyway?

If you’re renting, buying, or moving into any kind of residential or commercial property in Dubai, you need your own DEWA account. Period. That includes:

• New tenants moving into an apartment
  
  
• Villa owners ready to settle in
  
  
• Expats relocating for work
  
  
• Businesses setting up shop
  

Landlords usually expect you to sort out your own DEWA connection. Some serviced apartments might already include DEWA in your rent, but unless it's specifically mentioned—assume you’re responsible.

Pro tip: Always double-check with your landlord or agent before moving in.

Renting in Dubai? Here’s What You Need for a DEWA New Connection

Okay, tenants—this one’s for you.

Once your tenancy contract is signed and Ejari (Dubai’s official tenancy registration) is issued, it’s time to sort your utilities. DEWA won’t do anything without an Ejari certificate, so get that done first.

Here’s the basic list of what you’ll need for your DEWA new tenant registration:

• Emirates ID (or passport if you're waiting for your ID)
  
  
• Visa page (proves your residency)
  
  
• Ejari certificate (yes, this is non-negotiable)
  
  
• Tenancy contract
  
  
• A working UAE mobile number
  
  
• Email address
  

And of course… money. You’ll need to pay:

• AED 2,000 security deposit (for apartments)
  
  
• AED 4,000 (for villas)
  
  
• AED 130 setup fee (non-refundable)
  

The good news? You can get this all done in under 30 minutes online. No lines, no drama.

Homeowners—Yes, You Also Need to Set Up DEWA

If you’ve bought property in Dubai—congrats! Now let’s get you connected.

DEWA doesn’t just auto-activate for owners. You still have to apply for a new connection. Instead of an Ejari, you’ll submit your title deed (proof you own the place).

Other than that, the process is pretty similar. You’ll need:

• Emirates ID
  
  
• Passport & visa page
  
  
• UAE mobile number + email
  
  
• Title deed
  
  
• Security deposit (same amounts: AED 2,000 for apartments, AED 4,000 for villas)
  
  
• AED 130 activation fee
  

Again, you can do this through the DEWA website or app, and the connection is usually set up within 24 hours. Sometimes even faster.

Let’s Talk Process: How to Open a DEWA Account (Without Losing Your Mind)

Here’s the full scoop on how to open a DEWA account in Dubai, step-by-step:

Step 1: Gather Your Docs

Get everything ready:

• Emirates ID or Passport
  
  
• Visa page
  
  
• Ejari (tenants) or Title Deed (owners)
  
  
• Tenancy contract
  
  
• UAE mobile + email
  

Step 2: Register Online

You can do this two ways:

• Visit dewa.gov.ae
  
  
• Or download the DEWA Smart App from App Store/Google Play
  

Create your account and go to the “Move-in” section. Upload your docs, fill in the details, and hit submit.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

Pay your security deposit + setup charges online. Keep the receipt for your records.

Step 4: Wait for Activation

Most accounts are activated in under 24 hours. You’ll get SMS + email confirmation once it's done. Some people get connected within a couple of hours.

Once you're set up, you'll also get your DEWA account number. Save that somewhere safe—you’ll need it for payments, support, and tracking your usage.

Bonus: What If You Want to Open a DEWA Account Online (And Avoid Queues)?

Great news—you absolutely can.

DEWA has made life super easy with its digital services. Here’s how to open a DEWA account online:

1. Visit the official website or use their mobile app
   
   
2. Click on “Move-In” for a new connection
   
   
3. Fill in the required details
   
   
4. Upload your documents
   
   
5. Pay your fees
   
   
6. Wait for confirmation
   

You’ll receive your account number and connection status updates right in your email and on the app. No need to visit any office, ever.

They’ve made the process insanely smooth. You can also manage everything from the app later—view bills, set up auto-payments, or even disconnect service when you move out.

Your DEWA Account Number: What It Is & Why It Matters

Once your account is activated, DEWA will assign you a unique account number. This is your utility ID in Dubai. You’ll use it for:

• Making payments
  
  
• Tracking usage
  
  
• Contacting customer support
  
  
• Disconnecting or transferring your service
  

You’ll find your DEWA account number on your confirmation email, app dashboard, or any official bill. It’s usually a 9-10 digit number. Save it somewhere—screenshot it, save it in Notes, tattoo it (okay, maybe don’t).

Need to find your account number later? Just log into your DEWA account, and it’ll be right there on the main dashboard.

How to Open a DEWA Account Online (Yes, It’s That Easy)

Still wondering if you need to stand in a queue or drive across town? Nope. You can open a DEWA account online from your couch.

Here’s how:

1. Visit: www.dewa.gov.ae
   
   
2. Click: “Move-In Services”
   
   
3. Create an account or log in with UAE Pass
   
   
4. Upload required documents
   
   
5. Pay fees via credit/debit card
   
   
6. Wait for confirmation
   

You’ll get your DEWA account number right after and a notification once services are live. It’s super streamlined. Plus, the DEWA Smart App lets you track bills, report faults, even chat with customer service if needed.

DEWA for New Tenants: What You Really Need to Know

If you’re renting in Dubai for the first time, opening a DEWA account can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re coming from a country where utilities are bundled into rent or handled by landlords. But here’s the deal—it’s way easier than it seems, and once you’ve done it once, you’ll be a pro.

Here’s your cheat sheet if you’re a new tenant:

• Don’t wait till the last minute. Apply for DEWA the moment you get your Ejari.
  
  
• Make sure your name is on the Ejari. It has to match the DEWA application.
  
  
• Double-check your documents. A tiny mismatch in name or ID can delay things.
  
  
• Track your usage. Once your DEWA is live, monitor your electricity and water to avoid crazy bills.
  

Can you transfer an old DEWA account?

Yes, the old DEWA account of the same person can be transferred from one property to another in Dubai. If you're moving to a new home, you don’t need to close your existing DEWA account and open a new one. Instead, you can use DEWA’s “Move-To” service to transfer your connection. This process disconnects the service at your current property and activates it at your new address while keeping your account number the same. Your security deposit is also adjusted based on the new property's type (apartment or villa), making the move smoother and more efficient.

What If You Run into DEWA Problems? Here’s What to Do

Sometimes, even the smoothest move-in can hit a bump. DEWA issues are rare, but they happen. Here are the most common DEWA problems and how to fix them:

1. Connection Delay

If your DEWA isn’t live after 24 hours:

• Double-check your payment confirmation
  
  
• Make sure your Ejari is activated
  
  
• Log into your DEWA account to track the status
  
  
• If all else fails, call 991 (DEWA customer service hotline)
  

2. Wrong Billing or Charges

See a weird number on your bill?

• Log into your DEWA app or web dashboard
  
  
• Compare it with your past consumption
  
  
• If it still looks wrong, raise a ticket online or via the app
  

3. Forgot Your DEWA Account Number

It happens. You’ll find it:

• In your DEWA welcome email
  
  
• On any DEWA bill or receipt
  
  
• In your DEWA app under account settings
  

Don’t panic—it’s retrievable.

Are You an Expat? Here’s How DEWA Works for You

If you’re new to Dubai (or even the UAE), you’re not alone—most of the city’s population are expats. The good news? DEWA doesn’t discriminate. As long as you’ve got your Emirates ID and visa sorted, you’re good to go.

Special tips for expats:

• Language barrier? DEWA’s site and app are in English and Arabic.
  
  
• Living abroad temporarily? You can still set up your DEWA remotely once you have all the documents.
  
  
• Need help? DEWA’s customer service is responsive, and their email/chat support is available for international queries too.
  

If you’re still waiting on your Emirates ID, some landlords will help with temporary arrangements—but you’ll eventually need your own account to avoid issues.

FAQs About DEWA Account Opening (Because Everyone Asks These)

Let’s answer the burning questions you probably Googled before landing here:

How do I open a DEWA account in Dubai?

Simple: Go to dewa.gov.ae, click on Move-In, upload your docs, pay your fees, and boom—you’re connected.

What documents are needed for DEWA?

You’ll need:

• Emirates ID
  
  
• Passport and visa page
  
  
• Ejari certificate (or Title Deed if you're an owner)
  
  
• Tenancy contract
  
  
• UAE phone and email
  

How long does it take to open a DEWA account?

Usually under 24 hours—sometimes just a few hours if you apply early.

How much is the DEWA connection fee?

• AED 2,000 deposit for apartments
  
  
• AED 4,000 for villas
  
  
• AED 130 setup fee (non-refundable)
  

Can I open a DEWA account without Ejari?

No. It’s a mandatory requirement for tenants. Without Ejari, DEWA won’t process your application.

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