How to Set Up DEWA Electricity and Water in Dubai (Move-In, Deposit & Fees)
If you are a tenant, you start electricity and water through the DEWA "Activation of Electricity/Water (Move-in)" service. You can use dewa.gov.ae or the DEWA Smart App. You need a registered Ejari first. When you enter a valid Ejari number, the form fills in your details for you. You do not need to upload any documents. Next, you pay the refundable security deposit and the activation charges. DEWA connects your supply within 15 working hours of payment. This is stated in DEWA's service guide.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Deposit AED 2,000 (flat) / 4,000 (villa) + activation AED 155/330
- Total time:
- Minutes to apply; supply within 15 working hours of payment
- Steps:
- 5 steps
- Where to apply:
- dewa.gov.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 5 steps
- Before You Go See Ejari guide
Register Ejari first
First, complete your Ejari registration. See the Ejari guide for the steps. Write down your Ejari number. Also write down the 9-digit DEWA premise number. You can find it on the gate of the property or on the meter.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Minutes
Submit the Move-in request
Go to dewa.gov.ae or open the DEWA Smart App. Choose Activation of Electricity/Water (Move-in). Enter your Ejari number and your premise number. Then enter your move-in date and your contact details. You can also apply at a DEWA Customer Happiness Centre.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Immediate Deposit AED 2,000/4,000 + activation AED 155/330
Pay the deposit and activation fees
You can pay online by card or through smart payment channels. Or you can pay at a centre. The security deposit is refundable. It is AED 2,000 for a flat or apartment. It is AED 4,000 for a villa. The activation charge depends on your meter. It is AED 125 for a small meter, or AED 300 for a large meter. You also pay AED 10 for registration, AED 10 for knowledge, and AED 10 for innovation. So the total activation charge is AED 155 or AED 330. These figures come from the DEWA service guide, updated 16 May 2026. Thukher cardholders (senior Emiratis) and Sanad cardholders (people of determination) get 50% off activation charges.
Click to mark as done
- Wait Within 15 working hours of payment
Supply is connected
DEWA switches on your electricity and water after you pay. You get a confirmation by SMS or email.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up Ongoing
Bills and account
Your bills arrive every month by email or SMS. You can manage your account in the DEWA Smart App or on the website. Is there an unpaid final bill from a previous tenant on the property? It must be settled before DEWA can start a new activation.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I activate DEWA without Ejari?
For a move-in on the website or smart app, DEWA needs your Ejari number. This is stated in its official FAQ. Do you not have an Ejari number? Then apply at a Customer Happiness Centre and bring your tenancy documents.
Do I get the security deposit back?
Yes, the deposit is refundable. When you close your account at move-out, DEWA uses it to settle your final bill. DEWA refunds any money that is left.
I moved within Dubai — do I open a new account?
Use the DEWA "Move To" transfer service instead. Do not open a new account. Your deposit moves with you. You only top it up if you move from a flat to a villa.
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