Moving to Dubai? Get Your Lights & Water On Fast with DEWA
May 8, 2025
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So, you're moving to Dubai! That's fantastic news. Amidst the excitement of finding your perfect place and exploring this vibrant city, there's one crucial step you can't skip: getting your electricity and water connected. In Dubai, this means setting up an account with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the sole provider of these essential services 
[15]. Thankfully, DEWA has streamlined the process, especially with their 'Move-In' service, making it easier than ever to get settled 
[2]
[12]. This guide will walk you through exactly how to activate your DEWA connection, whether you're renting or own your new home, based on the latest procedures 
[5].
Understanding the DEWA 'Move-In' Service
First things first, what exactly is the DEWA 'Move-In' service? Simply put, it's the official process for activating electricity and water supply when you occupy a new property in Dubai 
[1][2]
[16]. Getting this done promptly is essential to, well, have lights and running water when you move in! The specific steps can vary slightly depending on whether you're a tenant or a property owner, and importantly, whether your tenancy contract is registered under the Ejari system [1][2]
[6]. Let's break down the common scenarios.
Setting Up DEWA as a Tenant (Outside Free Zones): The "One Step Move-in"
If you're renting a property in Dubai (outside of certain designated free zones), the process is remarkably simple thanks to integration with the Ejari system [2][6]. This is often called the "One Step Move-in" and here’s how it typically works [15][6]. Your journey starts when your landlord or their agent registers your tenancy contract with Ejari, which is mandatory in most areas [2][6]. This registration usually costs between AED 170 and AED 220 [6]
[14].
Once your Ejari is registered, the magic happens automatically. Your details, including your name, contact info, and the property's unique DEWA premise number, are securely sent from the Ejari system directly to DEWA [2][15][6]. DEWA then automatically creates your account and initiates a 'Move-In' request [15][6]. You don't have to lift a finger for this part! You'll soon receive an SMS and a welcome email from DEWA confirming your new account number and outlining the security deposit required, usually with a handy payment link [2][15][6]
[9]. The final step is yours: pay the security deposit and any activation fees using the link or another approved DEWA payment method [2][15][6]. The best part? With this integrated system, you often don't need to submit any extra documents directly to DEWA; your valid Ejari number does the heavy lifting [2][15][6].
Setting Up DEWA for Owners & Tenants in Exempted Free Zones
What if you're a property owner moving into your own place, or a tenant in a Free Zone where Ejari isn't mandatory? Don't worry, the process is still straightforward, but you'll need to apply for the 'Move-In' service directly with DEWA [1][2][16]. You have a few options for doing this. The most common method is via the DEWA website (www.dewa.gov.ae) [1][16]. You'll navigate to the consumer section, find 'Activation of Electricity/Water (Move-in)', and follow the prompts 
[4][5]. You might need to log in with UAE Pass or create a DEWA ID, providing details like your Emirates ID or passport [1][16]
[7][4]. You'll select your customer type (owner or tenant), fill in your details, provide the 9-digit DEWA premise number, upload necessary documents, and submit the application [1][16][7]
[8][9].
Alternatively, you can use the DEWA Smart App on your phone, which offers a similar application process [2][4][5]. If you prefer face-to-face interaction, you can visit a DEWA Customer Happiness Centre [1][5][8]. Locations include their Head Office, Al Twar Centre, Al Quoz, and others 
[13]. There, you can fill out a physical form, submit your documents, and make the payment directly [1][15][8]. Whichever method you choose, the key is providing the correct information and documents to get your application processed smoothly [1][2][16].
Essential Documents for Your DEWA Application
Gathering the right paperwork beforehand makes the DEWA setup much smoother [12][5]. The documents you need depend on your situation [1][2][4]. For tenants using the "One Step Move-in" outside free zones, the primary requirement is simply your valid Ejari number, as most data transfers automatically [2][15][6]. However, always have your valid Emirates ID handy, as it's fundamental for residency and potential verification [15][4][5].
If you're a tenant in an exempted Free Zone, you'll need to provide your actual valid Tenancy Contract details [2][12][1][16]. You'll also need your valid Emirates ID [15][5]. Depending on your nationality or status, a passport copy might also be requested [2][15][5]. For property owners, the crucial document is your valid Title Deed or Sales Purchase Agreement proving ownership [1][2][15][12][4][5][8]. Alongside this, you'll need your valid Emirates ID and potentially a passport copy [1][2][15][4][5][8]. Just a quick note for businesses: commercial setups require a valid Trade License [1][2][15][12][4][8]. Remember, having your Ejari registered (for tenants) or your Title Deed finalized (for owners) are key legal steps before initiating the DEWA process [2][5][6].
DEWA Activation Timeline: When Do the Lights Turn On?
You've submitted your application and paid the fees – now, how long until you can flick the switches? The good news is, DEWA is usually quite efficient. Once your payment for the security deposit and activation fees is confirmed, your electricity and water supply should be activated within 15 working hours [2][12][16][4][5]
[17][14][9]. Some sources mention 15 hours straight, but it's safer to assume working hours [2][12][16][4][5][17][14]. The key trigger here is the successful payment confirmation [2][5]. If, for some reason, your services aren't active within that timeframe, don't hesitate to contact the DEWA Customer Care Centre at 04-601 9999 for assistance [2][4].
Understanding DEWA Setup Costs: Deposits and Fees
Budgeting for your move includes understanding the costs associated with setting up your DEWA account [12][17]. There are two main components: a refundable security deposit and non-refundable activation fees [12][5][17]. The security deposit acts as a guarantee against any future unpaid bills and is mandatory [1][2][15][12][4][5][17]. The amount varies based on your property type: it's typically AED 2,000 for an apartment and AED 4,000 for a villa [1][2][15][12][4][5][17][6][14][8]
[11]. This deposit is refundable when you move out, provided you settle your final bill [15][17]. If you move within Dubai, you can often transfer this deposit to your new account using the 'Move-To' service, potentially just paying the difference if moving to a larger property type [1][14]
[10].
Next are the non-refundable activation charges, which cover connection and administrative tasks, and usually have VAT added [15][16][11]. For standard residential connections (small meters), these include a Connection Fee (AED 100), Registration Fee (AED 10), Knowledge Fee (AED 10), and Innovation Fee (AED 10) [1][2][15][16][5][17][8][11]. This totals AED 130 plus VAT for activation [2][15][12][6][14]
[3][11]. Good news for some: holders of Thukher and Sanad cards receive a 50% discount on these activation fees [2][16][8][11]. So, your total upfront cost for DEWA setup (including VAT on activation) is approximately AED 2,136.50 for an apartment and AED 4,136.50 for a villa. Don't forget other related costs like the Ejari registration fee (around AED 220) [14] and the Dubai Municipality Housing Fee (5% of your annual rent, billed monthly via DEWA) [5][14].
Your Smooth Move-In: Key Takeaways
Getting your DEWA connection sorted is a vital part of settling into your new Dubai home. The key is knowing which process applies to you. If you're a tenant with an Ejari, leverage the super-convenient "One Step Move-in" [2][6][15]. If you're an owner or a tenant in an exempt zone, apply directly via the DEWA website, app, or a customer centre [1][16][4][5]. Ensure you have the essential documents ready – primarily your Ejari or Title Deed, plus your Emirates ID [2][15][6][4][5][8]. Budget for the refundable security deposit (AED 2,000/4,000) and the non-refundable activation fees (around AED 136.50) [12][17][11]. Once payment is made, expect your power and water to be connected within 15 working hours [2][9][17]. Honestly, with a little preparation, the DEWA setup is a smooth process, letting you focus on enjoying your new life in Dubai [5][8].
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