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AI-assisted content notice: This article was written with AI assistance and reviewed by the Tovi team. UAE rules and fees change — always verify with official sources before acting. Last reviewed: March 2026.
đŸĒĒ Expat lifeTech✓ Verified Mar 2026

Best UAE Apps Every Expat Should Have Installed 2026

UAE Pass, Dubai Now, DEWA, ADDC, RTA, ICP, MOHRE, Salik. Here are the must-install apps for UAE expats in 2026.

¡7 min read¡By the Tovi UAE Team

Quick answer

Install these eight apps before you land in the UAE: UAE Pass, Dubai Now, DEWA, ADDC, RTA, ICP, MOHRE, and Salik. They cover digital ID, government services, utilities, transport, and traffic fines. Each app replaces multiple in-person visits and saves you time dealing with 2026 procedures.

UAE Pass – your digital identity

UAE Pass is the single digital signature accepted by all federal and emirate-level authorities. Download it from the App Store or Google Play. Sign up with your Emirates ID number and biometrics. Once activated, you can sign documents, renew visas, and apply for services online without visiting typing centres or typing centres again.

2026 fees: basic account is still 0 AED. Premium features such as document vault and remote signing require 50 AED per year.

Dubai Now – Dubai municipality services

Dubai Now gathers every Dubai government service into one app. You can pay DEWA bills, renew vehicle registration, apply for parking permits, and handle Ejari contracts. For expats living in Dubai, it removes most trips to Dubai Municipality centres.

2026 fees: most services still remain 0 AED when done through the app. Vehicle registration renewal costs 300 AED annually plus 100 AED knowledge fee.

DEWA and ADDC – electricity and water bills

DEWA serves Dubai residents. ADDC serves Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates. Both apps allow you to open accounts, read meters, set up autopay, and pay bills. Set up your first bill through the app rather than at a typing centre.

2026 fees: connection fee remains 100 AED for new connections. Average monthly bill for a 1-bedroom apartment is 350–450 AED.

RTA – Dubai transport and fines

RTA app handles everything related to roads and transport in Dubai. You can renew your driving licence, pay traffic fines, check vehicle history, and report lost items on the metro. For 2026, licence renewal costs 300 AED base plus 100 AED medical test.

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