Introduction to UAE Public Utility Service 

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates, each independent in local government and administration. Public utility services for the utility sector are hence relatively more compound as the procedures and the regulations followed by different emirates differ. The major providers of electricity and water are the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority-DEWA, and Abu Dhabi Distribution Company-ADDC, respectively. Whether you are looking to move into a new house or open up a business, it is essential to understand how utility services are distributed across each region. 

So, here’s a guide on the public utility services across the Emirates, including the Northern Emirates, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.

Public Utility Services in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, has a well-organized and efficient public utility system. The Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) and the Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC) are responsible for the distribution of electricity and water in the emirate.

Electricity and Water

• Provider: Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC)
• Billing: Bills are issued monthly and can be paid online, through banks, or at customer service centers.
• Connection: New residents can set up their utility connections by applying through the ADDC or AADC websites or visiting customer service centers.

Waste Management

• Provider: Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center (Tadweer)
• Services: Tadweer manages waste collection, recycling, and disposal. The emirate promotes sustainability and encourages residents to reduce waste and recycle.

Application Process

You can either apply online through the ADDC website or visit one of their service centers.

Documents Required:

Payment Channels:

• Online via ADDC’s official website
• Autopay feature
• ADDC mobile app (available on Android & iOS)
• ADDC kiosks

Public Utility Services in Dubai

Dubai is known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and public services. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) oversees the distribution of electricity and water in the emirate.

Electricity and Water

• Provider: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
• Billing: DEWA bills are issued monthly and can be paid online, through the DEWA app, or at banks.
• Connection: Residents can apply for new connections online through the DEWA website. DEWA also offers the "Move to" service, allowing residents to transfer their utility accounts when moving within Dubai.

Waste Management

• Provider: Dubai Municipality
• Services: The municipality handles waste collection, recycling, and disposal. Dubai also has several recycling centers and campaigns to promote waste reduction.

Application Process

You can submit an application through DEWA or Ejari centers.

• Documents Needed:
  • For owners: Title deed
  • Passport copy (including residence visa page)
  • Emirates ID card
  • For tenants: Attested tenancy contract (Ejari)
• Service Activation: Complete the application, pay the security deposit, and get the service connected.
• Bill Payment Options:
  • DEWA website
  • Autopay
  • DEWA mobile app (Android & iOS)
  • DEWA kiosks
  • EasyPay service

Public Utility Services in Sharjah

Sharjah's public utilities are managed by the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA). The emirate has made significant investments in upgrading its infrastructure to meet the growing demand.

Electricity, Water, and Gas

• Provider: Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA)
• Billing: SEWA issues monthly bills that can be paid online, through banks, or at SEWA customer service centers.
• Connection: New residents can apply for utility connections via SEWA's website or at customer service centers.

Waste Management

• Provider: Bee'ah
• Services: Bee'ah is responsible for waste management in Sharjah, including waste collection, recycling, and disposal. The emirate is known for its environmental initiatives and sustainability efforts.

Application Process:

You can submit an application with the required documents at the customer service center.

• Documents Needed:
  • For tenants: Attested tenancy contract, ID card, last clearance certificate
  • For landlords: Title deed
• Payment Channels:
  • UAE banks approved by SEWGA
  • Emirates Post offices
  • SEWGA customer service offices
  • SEWGA website and app
  • Etisalat electronic payment machines
  • Exchange outlets across the UAE

Public Utility Services in Ajman

Ajman, the smallest emirate of UAE, has its utilities managed by the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA), which also oversees utilities in other northern emirates.

Electricity and Water

• Provider: Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA)
• Billing: FEWA issues monthly bills that can be paid online, through banks, or at FEWA offices.
• Connection: New connections can be set up by applying online via the FEWA website or by visiting a FEWA office.

Waste Management

• Provider: Ajman Municipality
• Services: The Ajman Municipality handles waste collection and disposal. The emirate has initiatives to encourage recycling and sustainable waste management.

Public Utility Services in Umm Al Quwain

Umm Al Quwain’s utility services are also managed by the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA).

Electricity and Water

• Provider: Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA)
• Billing: FEWA provides monthly billing services, with payments accepted online, through banks, or at FEWA offices.
• Connection: Residents can apply for new connections through the FEWA website or at a FEWA office.

Waste Management

• Provider: Umm Al Quwain Municipality
• Services: The municipality is responsible for waste collection and disposal, with efforts to improve recycling and waste management practices.

Public Utility Services in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah has also entrusted its utility services to FEWA, with the local municipality managing waste services.

Electricity and Water

• Provider: Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA)
• Billing: Monthly bills are issued by FEWA and can be paid online, through banks, or at FEWA offices.
• Connection: New residents can establish connections through the FEWA website or by visiting a FEWA office.

Waste Management

• Provider: Ras Al Khaimah Municipality
• Services: The municipality oversees waste management services, including collection, recycling, and disposal.

Public Utility Services in Fujairah

Like the other northern emirates, Fujairah's utility services are managed by FEWA.

Electricity and Water

• Provider: Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA)
• Billing: FEWA bills are issued monthly and can be paid online, through banks, or at FEWA offices.
• Connection: New connections can be applied for via the FEWA website or at a FEWA office.

Waste Management

• Provider: Fujairah Municipality
• Services: Fujairah Municipality manages waste collection, recycling, and disposal, with an emphasis on improving environmental sustainability.

Application Process for Northern Emirates (Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah)

The application process remains the same for the northern emirates which include Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah:

• Provider: Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE)
• Services: Electricity and water
• Connection Process: Apply online or at Etihad WE customer service centers.
• Payment Methods: Kiosk machines, banks, Al Ansari Exchange, Al Fardan Exchange, and Etihad WE offices.
• Documents Needed:
  • Emirates ID
  • Tenancy contract (attested) for tenants
  • Title deed for property owners
  • Commercial license for commercial/industrial accounts

Conclusion

Public utility services across the UAE are well-organized and efficient, with each emirate offering a range of options for setting up and managing electricity, water, and waste services. Whether you're moving to the bustling city of Dubai or the quieter emirate of Umm Al Quwain, understanding the specific providers and procedures in your area is crucial for a smooth transition.

FAQs

1. What are government utilities in the UAE?
Government utilities in the UAE are Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA), Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA), and  Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC). 

2. What are the services provided by the UAE government?

The services offered by the UAE Government for Emiratis are education, Emiratisation, financing, and retirement; business events and advertising support promotions, funding, and campaigns; consultations and training provide expert guidance for business management; and education, entertainment, and events cover a wide range of public interests.

3. What are the utility bills in Dubai?
Generally, the average monthly cost of utilities in Dubai is about AED 1,000. The electricity for a two-bedroom apartment typically costs around AED 400-500.

4. How to make a utility bill in the UAE?
In order to make a utility bill in the UAE, one must pay their Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC), Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA), du and Etisalat bills, any time over the phone with the respective mode of payment of their choice.