How Much Is DEWA Deposit in Dubai 2026

Quick answer

The standard DEWA deposit in Dubai is AED 2,000 for residential apartments and AED 4,000 for villas. This amount is held by DEWA as security and refunded when you close your account, provided there are no outstanding bills.

Why DEWA asks for a deposit

DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) collects a one-time security deposit when you open a new account. The deposit protects the authority against unpaid bills and is returned at the end of your tenancy if your account is clear.

Current deposit amounts in 2026

Deposit fees have remained stable since 2024. Here are the official amounts you will pay:

• Studio or 1-bedroom apartment: AED 2,000
• 2–3 bedroom apartment: AED 2,000
• Villa or townhouse: AED 4,000
• Commercial unit: AED 5,000 (or 5 % of the annual bill, whichever is higher)

These figures apply whether you rent or own the property. Verify current fee with DEWA if your unit has unusual consumption patterns.

Who pays the DEWA deposit?

Anyone opening a new electricity and water account must pay the deposit. This includes:

• New tenants signing an Ejari contract
• Homeowners who recently purchased property
• Expats moving into Dubai from other emirates

Step-by-step: paying your DEWA deposit

1. Sign your tenancy contract and get Ejari attested by RERA.
2. Visit a DEWA customer service centre or apply online via the DEWA app.
3. Upload Emirates ID, passport, visa, and signed Ejari.
4. Pay the deposit plus connection fees (AED 260 for residential units).
5. Receive your account number and meter activation within 24–48 hours.

DEWA deposit vs connection fees

The deposit is separate from connection and service fees. In 2026 the typical charges are:

• New connection fee: AED 100
• Account opening fee: AED 100
• Security deposit: AED 2,000–4,000 (refundable)
• Smart meter installation: AED 60

Always keep the receipt for the deposit; you will need it for refunds later.

How to get your DEWA deposit back

When you move out or sell your property:

1. Settle any outstanding bills in the DEWA app or portal.
2. Request final meter reading at least 48 hours before vacating.
3. Submit the “Account Closure” request through the app or at a DEWA centre.
4. Provide your IBAN so DEWA can transfer the deposit within 4–6 weeks.

If bills remain unpaid, DEWA deducts the balance from your deposit before refunding the rest.

Common mistakes expats make

• Paying the deposit before Ejari is attested — DEWA will reject the application.
• Using a tourist visa instead of a valid residence visa — account opening fails.
• Forgetting to request final readings — the deposit refund is delayed.
• Assuming the landlord pays — tenants must open their own account.

DEWA deposit tips for 2026

• Apply online via the DEWA app to avoid branch queues.
• Link your account to your salary account to set up direct debit and avoid late fees.
• Keep screenshots of all payments; they speed up refund processing.
• If you share a villa, confirm the deposit split in writing with housemates.

DEWA deposit vs other emirates

Other emirates have different rules. In Abu Dhabi, the deposit is handled by ADDC and is usually 5 % of your estimated annual bill. In Sharjah, SEWA charges a flat AED 1,000 for most residential units. Dubai’s flat-rate DEWA deposit remains the simplest to budget.

Key takeaway

Budget AED 2,000–4,000 for your DEWA deposit when moving into a new home in Dubai. Pay it only after your Ejari is attested, keep every receipt, and request final readings before you leave to guarantee a full refund within six weeks.