The UAE is one of the leading countries in terms of utility service development. A significant portion of these services is provided by government regional authorities, which play a crucial role in supplying the population with energy, water, and other necessary resources. The two main entities responsible for utility services in the UAE are the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC). They not only handle the supply and distribution of electricity and water but also play an important regulatory role in these industrial sectors.

The UAE is renowned for its energy sector, which is one of the fastest-growing in the world. They actively seek environmentally friendly and sustainable energy solutions, including solar and wind sources. This demonstrates the government's commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing dependence on the oil and gas sector.

Ensuring reliable water supply is an important task for the UAE government, especially given the constantly growing population and infrastructure development. Significant investments and innovations are focused on creating efficient water supply systems that can meet the country's future water resource needs.

Electricity and Water Supply in the UAE

Electricity and water supply are key aspects of utility services in the UAE. When registering for utility services, there are several important factors to consider.

Electricity in the UAE is supplied at a standard voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. Most household appliances and devices used in the country operate on this grid. When connecting utility services, you will be dealing with government regional entities such as DEWA and ADDC, which are responsible for electricity supply and distribution.

As for water supply, in the UAE, water comes from underground sources and desalinated seawater. Only regional government companies handle water supply, ensuring its reliability and quality.

When connecting utility services, it is also important to consider water quality. It is recommended to install a water filter after connecting to the plumbing system in your home. This will help improve the quality of drinking water and reduce the costs of purchasing bottled water. The average cost of installing such a filter is around AED 999 (USD 272) and will be a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

Electricity and Water Providers in the UAE

In the UAE, the supply of electricity and water is managed by regional authorities that play a vital role in providing these utility services. The UAE government partially subsidizes these services to ensure affordability for the population.

In Dubai, the sole distributor of household electricity and water is the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). DEWA actively implements innovative technologies and develops autonomous systems that utilize alternative energy sources, including solar and wind energy. Additionally, DEWA also leverages artificial intelligence to enhance the efficiency and reliability of utility services.

In Abu Dhabi, the distribution of electricity and water is carried out by the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC). ADDC is the main provider of utility services in this emirate, ensuring the reliability and accessibility of electricity and water for the population of Abu Dhabi.

It is important to note that DEWA and ADDC also offer services for registration, account opening, payment, and maintenance of utility services. When connecting to utility services in the UAE, you will be communicating and collaborating with these organizations.

Cost and Tariffs for Electricity and Water in the UAE

The cost of electricity and water in the UAE can vary depending on various factors, including the provider and consumption pattern. Below are approximate tariffs and costs of services in the UAE.

DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) sets the following standard tariffs for electricity and water in Dubai:

• Electricity tariff: approximately 23 fils (0.23 dirhams) per kilowatt-hour.
• Water tariff: approximately 3 fils (0.03 dirhams) per gallon.
• For electricity consumption below 2,000 kilowatt-hours per month, the standard tariff applies. However, if consumption exceeds 6,000 kilowatt-hours, the tariff may be around 38 dirhams per kilowatt-hour.

ADDC (Abu Dhabi Distribution Company) in Abu Dhabi offers different tariff ranges depending on the level of electricity and water consumption:

• Electricity tariff: in the "green band," approximately 26.8 fils (0.268 dirhams) per kilowatt-hour, and in the "red band," approximately 30.5 fils (0.305 dirhams) per kilowatt-hour. For the "green" electricity tariff category, consumption is 20 kilowatt-hours per day for apartments and 200 kilowatt-hours per day for villas.
• Water tariff: in the "green band," approximately 7.8 dirhams per cubic liter, and in the "red band," approximately 10.41 dirhams per cubic liter. For the "green" water tariff category, consumption is 0.7 cubic liters per day for apartments and 5 cubic liters per day for villas.
• To obtain precise tariffs and cost details, it is recommended to contact the respective electricity and water providers in the UAE, such as DEWA and ADDC.

Connection and Disconnection of Electricity and Water in the UAE

In Dubai, the process of connecting and disconnecting utility services like electricity and water is managed by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and can be done online.

To connect electricity and water for individuals, they need to fill out an online form on the DEWA website and pay an activation fee, which is AED 130 (USD 35) for small meters or AED 330 (USD 90) for large meters. Additionally, a security deposit of AED 2,000 (USD 545) for apartments or AED 4,000 (USD 1,090) for villas is required. After completing all the necessary steps, the services will be activated within 15 hours.

Disconnection of utility services in Dubai can also be done online. To do this, one needs to pay the final bill and fees, which amount to AED 120 (USD 33) for small meters or AED 320 (USD 87) for large meters, and specify the moving-out date. To disconnect utility services automatically, it is necessary to notify the customer service center by providing the account number, Emirates ID, and phone number.

DEWA also offers a special mode called "Away Mode" that helps property owners monitor their energy consumption more attentively. This feature allows saving resources if you are going on vacation or a business trip and notifies you of any potential excessive consumption during your absence. Consumption information will be sent to your email daily or weekly.

The system of connecting and disconnecting utility services in the UAE, including Dubai, is convenient and straightforward, allowing residents to efficiently manage their utility services and resources.

In the UAE, gas supply for domestic purposes, such as using gas stoves in the kitchen, is carried out through cylinders or central pipelines. The main gas providers are Emirates Gas and SERGAS.

In Dubai and the northern emirates, Emirates Gas is a popular gas supplier. They offer liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is delivered through a trusted network of distributors. To obtain gas, individuals need to contact a distributor in their area for property assessment and price confirmation. After activating the account, customers can order new cylinders as needed and pay for them directly to the distributor.

When moving out, the customer should contact the company at 8003-64-27 to have the cylinder disconnected. Equipment and accessories that the customer has already purchased can be returned to the distributor for a refund. The cost of an 11 kg LPG cylinder is approximately AED 70 (USD 19), a 22 kg LPG cylinder is around AED 140 (USD 38), and a 44 kg LPG cylinder is about AED 280 (USD 76).

In Abu Dhabi, the most popular gas supplier is SERGAS, which provides a centralized gas supply system. To open an account, customers need to register on the company's website, providing their passport or Emirates ID, and a lease agreement for the property. Then, they are required to pay a registration fee and a deposit. Gas will be made available to customers within 24 hours. For more information about the registration cost, customers can inquire at 600 565657.

To disconnect the gas supply, customers need to contact the company's customer support or visit one of their offices. The customer must settle the final bill and obtain a disconnection certificate to get their deposit back.

The connection and disconnection of gas supply in the UAE are managed by the mentioned companies, providing convenience and accessibility of gas services for domestic consumers.

Gas Cost and Tariffs in the UAE

The cost of gas in the UAE can vary depending on the supplier and usage mode. To obtain accurate pricing, it is recommended to contact the Emirates Gas distributor or SERGAS representative, as each property is individually assessed.

For contacting Emirates Gas in Dubai, the following contact details can be used:

• Phone: 8003-64-27
• Email: emiratesgas@enoc.com

SERGAS in Abu Dhabi can be reached using the following information:

• Phone: 600 565657
• Email: customer.service@sergas.com

If there are issues with gas supply or the need for repairs, it is advisable to directly contact the gas supplier using the provided contact details. They will be able to provide information on gas costs and tariffs, as well as assist with any inquiries.

Garbage collection and removal

Waste management in the UAE is carried out by the local authorities of the emirates, who collaborate with private companies such as Dulso, Averda, and Trashco for waste collection and disposal.

Each emirate has its own waste management system, and private companies enter into contracts with local authorities to provide these services in different areas. A crucial element of this system is waste processing stations located in each city. These stations are equipped with specialized machinery for sorting and processing various types of waste, such as glass, plastic, and paper. These stations play a significant role in reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and promoting sustainable resource usage.

Furthermore, private waste management companies conduct awareness and educational programs for the population. The aim of these programs is to increase awareness of environmental responsibility, waste separation, and disposal. They organize events, campaigns, and distribute informational materials to educate UAE residents about proper waste sorting and disposal methods.

The waste collection and disposal system in the UAE strives to reduce waste volume, ensure cleanliness and environmental health, and create a sustainable waste management system.

Utility Bill Payments in the UAE

In the UAE, utility bill payments can be made through various convenient methods. Here are some of them:

DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) bill payment options include:

1. DEWA Smart App.
2. Empay UAE app.
3. Official DEWA website.
4. Dubai Now app.
5. EasyPay.
6. Auto Pay.
7. Apple Pay.
8. Etisalat Payment Machines.
9. Bank branches.
10. Tayseer (credit card payment service).
11. DEWA Customer Happiness Centers.
12. ENOC/EPPCO petrol stations.

ADDC (Abu Dhabi Distribution Company) bill payments can be made through:

1. Official ADDC website.
2. Autopay option.
3. ADDC app.
4. MBME Smart Kiosks (located throughout the city).
5. ATMs.
6. Phone or internet banking.
7. Exchange centers.
8. TAMM portal.

Each bill contains information such as the account number, bill type, issuance date, billing period, due date, amount of electricity and water consumed for the month, and corresponding charges. The total amount for the services and the payment due date are indicated at the bottom of the bill.

It's important to note that in case of non-payment, you will receive up to 3 reminders via email and text messages. After 14 days from the final due date, utility services may be disconnected. To have them reconnected, you need to fully settle the bill and request service reactivation.