DEWA and utility connection guide for moving in Dubai

Nothing spoils a move like arriving to a home with no power or water. DEWA, Dubai’s electricity and water authority, needs to be disconnected at your old address and connected at your new one, and timing it right is simple once you know the steps. Here is exactly how to do it.

What is DEWA and why it matters

DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) supplies power and water to almost all homes in Dubai. Every move involves two actions: a move-out to close your final bill at the old address, and a move-in to activate the new one. Skipping either step can mean arriving to a dark apartment or an unexpected final bill later.

What you need before you apply

Have ready: your Emirates ID, your new tenancy contract or Ejari, and your DEWA premise or account number for the old address if you have it. Landlords sometimes need to approve the move-in request on their end, so it helps to let them know your move date in advance.

How to connect and disconnect DEWA

The easiest way is through the DEWA app or website. Log in, select move-out for your current address and enter your final reading date, then select move-in for your new address and upload your Ejari. A security deposit is usually required for a new connection, refundable when you eventually move out. Processing is often same-day to a few days, so apply a few days ahead of your move, not the morning of.

Timing it around moving day

Apply for the new connection three to five days before you move in, so power and water are live when the truck arrives. Time your move-out disconnection for your actual departure date, not before, so you are not without power while packing. If your new home is with a different landlord or developer, some buildings also require an NOC before DEWA will connect.

Moving to another Emirate

If you are moving outside Dubai, you will close your DEWA account and open one with the relevant authority instead, such as ADDC in Abu Dhabi or SEWA in Sharjah. The same principle applies: apply for the new connection a few days ahead so utilities are ready. See our Dubai to Abu Dhabi moving guide for the full cross-Emirate picture.

Frequently asked questions

How do I disconnect DEWA when moving out of Dubai?

Log in to the DEWA app or website and submit a move-out request for your address with your final date. This closes your account and settles your final bill.

How long does it take to connect DEWA at a new home?

Often same-day to a few working days once your Ejari and ID are submitted. Apply three to five days before your move-in date to be safe.

Is a deposit required for a new DEWA connection?

Yes, a refundable security deposit is typically required when opening a new account, returned when you eventually close it.

Can I move without cancelling my old DEWA account?

You should always submit a move-out request, otherwise charges may continue to accrue on your old account after you leave.

What do I need to connect DEWA at a new address?

Your Emirates ID and your tenancy contract or Ejari for the new property. Some buildings also require a landlord NOC.