What To Know
- Moving into a new home in Dubai comes with a few essential steps before you can fully settle in.
- DEWA is directly linked to Ejari through the Dubai Land Department (DLD), so you’ll need a valid registration before proceeding.
- You may pay a security deposit and connection fee, depending on the provider.
Welcome to Your New Home
Moving into a new home in Dubai comes with a few essential steps before you can fully settle in. Once your Ejari registration is complete, you can activate utilities like electricity, water, internet, and cooling. This guide explains what to set up, how to do it, and where to find official information for each service.
1. DEWA (Electricity and Water)
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is the first service to activate after receiving your Ejari certificate. DEWA is directly linked to Ejari through the Dubai Land Department (DLD), so you’ll need a valid registration before proceeding.
How to activate:
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Visit dewa.gov.ae or download the DEWA Smart App.
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Upload your Ejari certificate, Emirates ID, and tenancy contract.
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Pay a security deposit (AED 2,000 for apartments, AED 4,000 for villas).
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Connection is usually activated within 24 hours of payment.
Suggested reading:
How to Register Ejari in Dubai (Step-by-Step 2025 Guide)
How to Link Ejari to DEWA and Activate Utilities in Dubai
2. Cooling (District Cooling or Chiller)
Many Dubai buildings use district cooling instead of individual air conditioning systems. These are managed by private companies such as Empower, Emicool, and Tabreed.
How to set up:
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Contact the provider listed in your tenancy contract.
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Provide your Ejari certificate, passport, and Emirates ID.
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Pay a refundable security deposit (typically AED 1,500–2,500).
Bills are issued monthly and are separate from DEWA.
Suggested reading:
Understanding Cooling and Chiller Fees in Dubai Apartments
Ejari Fees, Documents, and Requirements Explained
3. Internet and Landline
Two telecom providers operate in Dubai: du and Etisalat by e&. Most new communities use du, while Etisalat has broader coverage.
How to activate:
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Visit a service center or apply through the provider’s website.
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Submit your Ejari certificate, Emirates ID, and passport.
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Choose a home plan with your preferred internet speed and TV options.
Connection usually takes 1 to 3 working days.
Suggested reading:
Moving to Dubai: Checklist for Tenants and New Residents
Ejari and DEWA Connection: How They Work Together in Dubai
4. Gas Connection
Some properties in Dubai use piped gas. Your tenancy contract or building management can confirm the provider, often Lootah, Emirates Gas, or ADNOC Gas.
Required documents:
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Ejari certificate
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Emirates ID
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Tenancy contract
You may pay a security deposit and connection fee, depending on the provider. Gas may be billed monthly or through a prepaid system.
Suggested reading:
Ejari Registration at Authorized Centers (Trustee / OnTime / JVC / Dubailand)
How to Renew Your Ejari Contract in 2025
5. Waste Collection and Recycling
Waste collection in Dubai is handled by the Dubai Municipality, with private companies serving specific communities.
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Bins are provided by your building management or developer.
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Recycling centers are available in most residential areas and malls.
No separate registration is required, as waste collection fees are usually included in your housing or community service charges.
Suggested reading:
Dubai Municipality Services Every Resident Should Know
Living Sustainably in Dubai: Recycling and Waste Tips for Tenants
6. Air Conditioning Maintenance (Non-District Cooling)
If your apartment uses a split or central A/C unit instead of district cooling, ensure regular maintenance.
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Tenants usually handle filter cleaning and minor servicing.
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Landlords are responsible for major repairs unless stated otherwise in the contract.
Suggested reading:
Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities Under Ejari Law
Common Maintenance Issues and How to Report Them in Dubai
7. Optional Services: TV, Insurance, and Home Security
Once essential utilities are running, you can consider optional services:
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TV and streaming packages from du or Etisalat
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Home contents insurance, available from most local insurers
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Smart home devices integrated with DEWA Smart Living
Suggested reading:
Smart Living in Dubai: How to Connect Your Home to DEWA’s Smart Hub
Top Home Insurance Providers in Dubai (2025 Review)
8. Smart Dubai Apps for Managing Utilities
Dubai integrates most household services into digital platforms:
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Dubai REST – property and Ejari management
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DEWA Smart App – electricity and water control
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Empower App – cooling bill payments
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DubaiNow – central government service portal
Managing your home through these apps keeps bills, renewals, and updates accessible in one place.
Suggested reading:
Dubai REST App: Step-by-Step Ejari Registration Walkthrough
The Best Dubai Government Apps for Tenants and Property Owners
In Summary
To fully set up your home in Dubai, complete the following steps in order:
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Register Ejari.
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Activate DEWA.
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Set up cooling and internet services.
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Confirm gas connections and waste management.
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Download Dubai Smart Apps for ongoing management.
Once complete, your home will be fully connected to Dubai’s essential infrastructure and ready for day-to-day living.
Disclaimer
Information in this article is based on data verified with official Dubai government platforms and major utility providers as of October 2025.
Procedures, fees, and requirements may change without prior notice. Readers are encouraged to confirm details directly with Dubai Land Department (DLD), DEWA, or relevant service providers before applying.
