Table of Contents
Setting Up Your Home in Dubai: Essential Services and Utilities
Moving to a new country can be an exciting but daunting experience. Setting up your home in a bustling metropolis like Dubai requires navigating various essential services and utilities. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to establish a comfortable and connected life in your new Dubai home.
DEWA: Your One-Stop Shop for Electricity and Water
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is the government-owned entity responsible for providing electricity and water services throughout Dubai. DEWA places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. Their Customer Happiness Centres and user-friendly online services reflect their commitment to providing accessible and convenient services for all residents1. They offer a convenient online portal called EasyPay, which allows you to manage and pay multiple bills in one location. This includes payments for your DEWA account, EV Green Charger bills, and other services like transformer oil testing and jointer certification3.
DEWA offers a wide range of services, including:
- Activation of Electricity/Water (Move-in): This is the first step to ensure your new home has running water and electricity. You can apply for activation online, via the DEWA app, or in person at a Customer Happiness Centre1.
- Deactivation of Electricity/Water (Move-out): When moving out, it’s essential to deactivate your DEWA account to avoid continued billing. When leaving Dubai, you’ll need to cancel your DEWA account. This involves determining if you need a clearing certificate, choosing your move-out date, providing a contact number, and selecting a method for receiving your deposit refund. For detailed information on the cancellation process, refer to the DEWA website1.
- Transfer of Electricity/Water (Move-to): If you’re moving to a different location within Dubai, you can transfer your existing DEWA account to your new address1.
- Bill Payment: DEWA offers various convenient payment methods, including online payments, mobile app payments, and payments through banks and exchange centers. For added convenience, DEWA allows bill payments through WhatsApp. However, note that only GCC cards are accepted for this payment method2. You can also pay your DEWA bills via SMS. Simply activate the service by clicking the link in the SMS message you receive3. DEWA bills can also be conveniently paid through the DubaiNow application, providing a centralized platform for various government services3.
- Smart Living: DEWA provides tools and resources to help you monitor your consumption, conserve water and energy, and reduce your environmental footprint1.
- EV Green Charger: DEWA supports the use of electric vehicles by providing a network of charging stations and related services1.
Understanding DEWA’s Tariff Structure
DEWA uses a slab tariff system for electricity and water consumption, where the price per unit increases progressively with higher usage. This encourages conservation and responsible consumption4. In addition to the slab tariff, a fuel surcharge is applied to both electricity and water consumption. This surcharge varies based on the cost of fuel supplied to DEWA’s generation plants4.
Here’s a breakdown of the residential and commercial electricity and water tariffs as of February 2025: 4
| Utility Type | Consumption | Slab tariff (fils/kWh or fils/IG*) |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | 0-2000 kWh/month | 23 |
| 2001-4000 kWh/month | 28 | |
| 4001-6000 kWh/month | 32 | |
| 6001 & Above kWh/month | 38 | |
| Water | 0-6000 IG*/month | 3.5 |
| 6001-12000 IG*/month | 4.0 | |
| 12001 & above IG*/month | 4.6 |
*IG = Imperial Gallon
District Cooling: Empower and Emicool
In many Dubai residential and commercial buildings, air conditioning is provided through district cooling systems. These systems offer a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional air conditioning units. This aligns with Dubai’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility5. Two major district cooling providers in Dubai are Empower and Emicool.
| Feature | Empower | Emicool |
|---|---|---|
| Description | World’s largest district cooling provider 7 | Leading district cooling provider with a significant market share 8 |
| Service Areas | Dubai Marina, Business Bay, JBR 5 | Dubai Investment Park, Dubai Sports City, Jumeirah Bay 9 |
| Charges | Capacity charge (based on property size), consumption charge (based on usage), fuel surcharge, connection fee (AED 2,000 connection charge + AED 1,000 admin fee) 5 | Metered chilled water consumption 10 |
| Payment Methods | Online, mobile apps, service centers 5 | Online, customer portal, offices, bank transfer (see table below) 10 |
| Disconnection Process | Online through e-services portal 11 | Contact customer service 12 |
| Security Deposit Refund | Visit Empower Head Office (appointment needed); cash for refunds below AED 5,000, cheque for refunds above AED 5,000 11 | Refer to the cancellation process 10 |
| Express Service | Not available | Available at select service centers 12 |
| Complaints | Contact hotline or visit service center 5 | 24/7 emergency number for urgent issues; call center, email, or office visits for other complaints 12 |
Emicool Bank Transfer Details: 10
| Bank Name | Account Number |
|---|---|
| Emirates NBD | 1011016225501 |
| Dubai Islamic Bank | 1520062683401 |
Emicool Quick Pay Link: 10
https://cxportal.emicool.com/quick-pay
Gas Connection in Dubai
While DEWA handles electricity and water, gas connections in Dubai are provided by private companies. You have the option of choosing between a central gas connection or cylinder gas connection. When choosing between central gas and cylinder gas, consider your needs and preferences. Central gas offers a continuous supply without the need for refills, while cylinder gas provides flexibility but requires regular refills. Central gas may be more convenient for frequent cooking, while cylinder gas might be suitable for occasional use13.
Central Gas Connection
A central gas connection provides a continuous supply of gas to your home from a central source. This eliminates the need for regular refills of gas cylinders13. Several companies offer central gas connection services, including Emirates Gas, Lootah BCGas, and Smart Gas13.
Cylinder Gas Connection
If your building doesn’t have a central gas system, you can opt for cylinder gas connections. Various companies supply gas cylinders of different sizes, including Emirates Gas, AD LPG Gas, and Brothers Gas13.
Staying Connected: Internet and Mobile Services
Dubai boasts excellent mobile phone reception and internet speed15. Two major providers, Etisalat and du, offer a wide range of internet and mobile packages to suit various needs and budgets. The telecom market in Dubai is highly competitive, with Etisalat and du vying for customers. This results in a wide variety of plans and packages, offering flexibility and value for users17. Both Etisalat and du offer eSIM options for users with compatible devices. This provides a convenient alternative to traditional SIM cards18. Both companies also offer specialized mobile plans for visitors, providing convenient options for short-term stays in Dubai. These plans typically include data, minutes for local and international calls, and sometimes SMS allowances15.
Etisalat
Etisalat offers various home internet packages under its eLife brand. These packages include high-speed fiber optic connections with options for TV channels, streaming services, and phone lines19. Etisalat also offers mobile plans with data, minutes, and roaming options17. In addition to eLife fiber optic plans, Etisalat offers Home Wireless plans. These plans provide unlimited data with an optional 5G Plug-n-Play router. There are two options: Home Wireless Advance (AED 199/month) and Home Wireless Premium (AED 299/month), which includes STARZPLAY and GoChat Premium20. Etisalat also offers prepaid plans, including Wasel Flexi, which allows you to customize your data and minutes allowances based on your needs21.
du
du provides similar services to Etisalat, with a range of home internet packages, mobile plans, and data bundles22. du also offers home wireless plans with 5G-enabled routers23. du offers a range of postpaid Power Plans with varying data allowances, flexi minutes for local and international calls, and Wi-Fi UAE access. These plans cater to different usage needs and budgets22. du also offers combo packages that combine data with flexi minutes for local and international calls, as well as yearly combo packages with larger data allowances and longer validity22. For those who prefer prepaid options, du offers Flexi plans with customizable allowances and Easy plans with preloaded credit and flexible recharge options22. du offers home internet bundles that combine high-speed internet with TV packages and landline services. These bundles provide a comprehensive solution for your home connectivity needs22.
When choosing an internet or mobile plan, consider your data usage, preferred speed, and budget. Both Etisalat and du offer flexible options to cater to different needs.
Television Packages
Both Etisalat and du offer TV packages with their home internet plans. These packages include a variety of channels, from local and regional to international. You can choose packages based on your preferred language and content24.
Essential Tips for New Residents
Here are some essential tips to help you navigate setting up your home in Dubai:
- Secure your residency visa and Emirates ID: These are crucial for accessing various services, including opening a bank account, renting a property, and setting up utilities25. Having these documents readily available will streamline many processes and prevent delays in accessing essential services.
- Familiarize yourself with district cooling: If your building uses district cooling, understand the charges and payment methods for Empower or Emicool26. District cooling is a common feature in Dubai properties, and understanding how it works will help you manage your utility bills effectively.
- Explore gas connection options: Decide whether a central gas connection or cylinder gas connection is suitable for your needs13. Consider your cooking habits and the availability of central gas in your building when making this decision.
- Research schools and healthcare: If you have children, research schools in your area. Also, ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage27. Dubai offers a wide range of schools, from public to private and international, catering to diverse educational needs.
- Embrace the local culture: Dubai is a multicultural city, and learning about local customs and traditions will enhance your experience27. Respecting local customs and traditions is essential for a harmonious living experience in Dubai.
MSK Translation: Your Partner for Legal Matters
Navigating legal procedures in a new country can be challenging. MSK Legal Translation Dubai, a legal translation provider in Dubai, understands the challenges faced by expats when dealing with legal matters in a new country. Their expertise and commitment to providing accessible and affordable services make them a valuable partner for navigating legal processes in Dubai28. They offer a range of services to assist with document translation and attestation. They specialize in unique legal translation dubai, certified translations, and interpretation services29. In addition to translation, MSK Translation offers attestation services, which may be required for certain legal documents in Dubai. This ensures your documents are legally recognized and accepted by relevant authorities29.
While setting up your home in Dubai, you may encounter situations where legal document translation is required. For example, you might need to translate your tenancy contract or other official documents for DEWA or other service providers. MSK Translation can provide accurate and reliable translation services to ensure your documents are accepted and understood29.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and concerns for new residents in Dubai:
What is the average cost of utilities in Dubai?
The cost of utilities can vary depending on your consumption and the size of your home. However, you can expect to pay approximately AED 700 per month for water and electricity (DEWA) and AED 360 per month for home internet27.
How do I set up a DEWA account?
You can set up a DEWA account online, through their mobile app, or in person at a Customer Happiness Centre. You will need to provide your Emirates ID, tenancy contract, and other relevant documents27.
What are the different types of gas connections available in Dubai?
You can choose between a central gas connection, which provides a continuous supply of gas from a central source, or a cylinder gas connection, where you need to regularly refill gas cylinders13.
Conclusion
Setting up your home in Dubai involves understanding the various essential services and utilities available. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the key services you’ll need to establish a comfortable life in your new home, from electricity and water to internet, mobile, and gas connections. Dubai offers a modern and efficient infrastructure with user-friendly online services and accessible customer support. By planning and utilizing the resources available, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new life in this vibrant city.
For more information about family services in Dubai, please visit Dubai Family page..
Works cited
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