To transfer DEWA when moving apartments in Dubai, use DEWA’s Move-To service, settle old dues, enter the new Ejari number, pay any deposit difference and activation fees, and then select the old apartment’s move-out date. DEWA connects the new premises within 15 working hours after payment.
Moving apartments in Dubai has one utility task that affects every handover, tenancy file, and move-in plan: your Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) connection. You do not simply “carry” electricity and water from one apartment to another. You transfer the account through DEWA Move-To, which combines move-out for the old premises and move-in for the new premises in one service interaction.
This guide explains how to move your DEWA connection when changing apartments, which documents matter, which fees apply, and how the timeline works. It also connects DEWA transfers with Ejari, final bills, security deposit transfers, apartment shifting, and apartment relocation planning.
Why does DEWA transfer matter when you move apartments in Dubai?
DEWA transfer matters because electricity, water, Ejari, final bills, and security deposits all affect your apartment handover.
Dubai’s rental market is large and active. Dubai’s rental market recorded 1.38 million registered contracts in 2025, a 6% increase year-over-year, with a total registered value of AED 126.4 billion, a 17% rise.
Dubai’s real estate sector also recorded 2.78 million procedures in 2024, including real estate transactions and rental agreements. Dubai Land Department (DLD) said this was a 17 % increase compared with 2023.
What does it mean to transfer DEWA when moving apartments?
Transferring DEWA means moving your electricity and water service from your old Dubai apartment to your new Dubai apartment.
DEWA calls this service Transfer of Electricity and Water, Move-To. The service covers customers who shift from one premise to another inside Dubai. DEWA states that residential customers can shift only from residential premises to residential premises. Commercial customers can shift only from commercial premises to commercial premises.
For a tenant, the DEWA transfer process connects 2 actions:
- Move-In: DEWA activates electricity and water at your new apartment.
- Move-Out: DEWA disconnects electricity and water at your old apartment.
This is different from opening a completely new connection without an old DEWA account. It is also different from closing DEWA and requesting a deposit refund. During Move-To, DEWA transfers your existing security deposit to your new premises if the deposit is enough for the new property type.
Who needs the DEWA Move-To service?
You need the DEWA Move-To service if you already have a DEWA account and you are moving to another Dubai apartment.
This applies to tenants who are changing apartments, upgrading from a studio to a larger unit, relocating within the same community, or shifting to another Dubai district.
Use DEWA Move-In instead if you are new to Dubai, do not have an existing DEWA account, or are activating utilities for a first premise. DEWA states that Move-In connects electricity and water after the security deposit and activation fee payment.
Use DEWA Move-Out if you are leaving Dubai, closing the premises, or not transferring service to another Dubai address. DEWA states that Move-Out deactivates electricity and water and sends the final green bill to the registered email.
What documents do you need to transfer DEWA?
You need the new Ejari number, new premises number, existing DEWA contract account number, move-in date, and move-out date.
DEWA lists the core Move-To details as the Ejari number for the new premises, new premises number, move-in date, existing DEWA contract account number, and move-out date.
DEWA transfer document checklist
| Requirement | What it means | Why it matters |
| New Ejari number | Tenancy registration number for the new apartment | DEWA says Ejari is mandatory for Move-To |
| New premises number | 9-digit DEWA premises number | DEWA uses the number to identify the exact property |
| Existing DEWA account number | Current contract account linked to the old apartment | DEWA uses it to transfer service and deposit |
| Move-in date | Date you want to move in at the new apartment | It helps plan apartment shifting |
| Move-out date | Date you want the supply disconnected at the old apartment | It controls final bill timing |
| Registered email and mobile | Contact details in DEWA records | DEWA sends reference numbers and bills |
| Payment method | Card or approved payment channel | You pay dues, fees, and any deposit difference |
DEWA states that you do not submit a DEWA payment receipt to a real estate management company or DLD authorized office for Ejari issuance. You only provide the 9-digit premises number, which appears on the premises door.
What if you live in a free zone?
Free zone tenants who are exempt from Ejari use a different route. DEWA states that tenants in free zone premises, who are exempt from Ejari, apply through the DEWA website or DEWA App and pay the security deposit through DEWA digital channels.
What if you are an owner?
Owners need ownership documents instead of Ejari. DEWA lists the Title Deed or Sales Purchase Agreement as the move-in requirement for owners.
How do you transfer DEWA when changing apartments?
Transfer DEWA by completing Ejari, logging into DEWA, using Move-To, entering your new Ejari number, paying dues and fees, and then selecting your old apartment’s move-out date.
Here is the practical sequence.
Step 1: Complete Ejari for the new apartment
Complete Ejari before you start the DEWA transfer request.
DEWA states that Ejari is mandatory for Move-To. DEWA also states that, after Ejari issuance, DEWA receives customer and property information and processes service activation for leasing contracts under Ejari.
DLD lists Ejari registration through the Dubai REST App, DLD website, and Real Estate Services Trustee Centers. Online registration through the Dubai REST or DLD website costs AED 177.75. Trustee Center Registration costs AED 220.
Step 2: Clear old DEWA dues
Clear old DEWA dues before you apply for Move-To.
DEWA lists outstanding dues settlement as a prerequisite. If your old apartment has unpaid electricity or water charges, settle the balance first.
This step protects the activation timeline. A pending balance can delay the new apartment connection.
Step 3: Log in through DEWA digital channels
Log in through DEWA using UAE Pass or DEWA ID.
DEWA’s Move-In journey allows existing customers to log in with UAE Pass or DEWA ID. DEWA also sends acknowledgements to the registered email or mobile number with a reference number and tracking link.
Step 4: Select Transfer of Electricity and Water, Move-To
Select the Move-To service for apartment relocation inside Dubai.
Enter the required data:
Step 5: Pay the required amount
Pay old dues, activation fees, deactivation fees, and any deposit difference.
DEWA states that customers pay the outstanding balance and security deposit where required, in addition to connection fees, during the transfer process.
Step 6: Save the confirmation and reference number
Save the request number, payment receipt, and tracking link. DEWA sends an acknowledgement to the registered email or mobile number with the reference number and tracking link.
Use these records for property handover, building security, move-in coordination, and any service delay follow-up.
How much does DEWA transfer cost?
DEWA transfer cost depends on deactivation charges, activation charges, security deposit status, old dues, and the new premises type.
DEWA’s Move-To service lists separate charges for move-out and activation. For Move-To, DEWA lists AED 112.5 for disconnecting electricity and water for small meters, AED 300 for large meters, a AED 10 knowledge fee, and a AED 10 innovation fee. DEWA also lists AED 112.5 for connecting electricity and water for small meters, AED 300 for large meters, AED 10 for registration, AED 10 for knowledge fee, and AED 10 for innovation fee.
For a standard apartment with small meters, use this planning table.
| Cost item | Standard apartment relevance | Official amount or rule |
| Move-out disconnection charge | Old apartment | AED 112.5 for small meters |
| Move-out knowledge fee | Old apartment | AED 10 |
| Move-out innovation fee | Old apartment | AED 10 |
| Move-in activation charge | New apartment | AED 112.5 for small meters |
| Move-in registration fee | New apartment | AED 10 |
| Move-in knowledge fee | New apartment | AED 10 |
| Move-in innovation fee | New apartment | AED 10 |
| Security deposit | New apartment | AED 2,000 for a flat or transferred if sufficient |
| Outstanding bill | Old apartment | Based on consumption and billing status |
This table separates predictable fees from variable costs. Predictable charges come from DEWA service fees. Variable charges come from the unpaid consumption and the security deposit difference.
DEWA’s Move-In service page lists AED 2,000 as the refundable security deposit for flats and AED 4,000 for villas. It also states that activation fees are AED 155 for electricity and water activation.
During Move-To, DEWA transfers the existing security deposit to the new premises if the existing deposit covers the new required deposit. DEWA requires the customer to pay the difference if shifting from a flat to a villa or if the existing deposit falls below the new premises requirement.
Example 1: Apartment to apartment
You move from a Dubai Marina apartment to a Business Bay apartment.
This is the cleanest DEWA transfer case.
Example 2: Apartment to villa
You move from an apartment to a villa.
DEWA states that customers pay the deposit difference when shifting from a flat to a villa.
How long does a DEWA transfer take?
DEWA connects electricity and water within 15 working hours after payment of the security deposit and connection fees.
DEWA states that the supply will be connected within 15 working hours after the security deposit payment. DEWA also states that customers can call 04-601 9999 if the supply is not activated within 15 working hours.
DEWA Move-Out timing works differently. DEWA states that electricity and water are deactivated within 24 working hours from the selected date and time. DEWA then sends the final green bill to your registered email address.
DEWA transfer timeline table
| Stage | Official timing | Planning note |
| Ejari through the Dubai REST App | Instant | DLD lists the mobile app service time as instant |
| Ejari through the trustee center | 7 minutes excluding waiting time | DLD lists this trustee center service time |
| DEWA Move-In activation | Within 15 working hours | Starts after payment or deposit transfer |
| DEWA Move-Out deactivation | Within 24 working hours | Starts from the selected move-out date and time |
| Final bill email | After deactivation | Sent to registered email |
| Clearance certificate | After the final bill settlement | Sent automatically after settlement |
Dubai Land Department lists Ejari service time as instant via mobile app and 7 minutes through trustee centers, excluding waiting time.
What happens to your DEWA security deposit?
Your DEWA security deposit transfers to the new premises if the existing deposit covers the required deposit.
DEWA states that customers do not apply for a security deposit refund during Move-To because the deposit moves to the new premises. DEWA also states that customers pay the difference if the new premises require a higher deposit.
Deposit transfer scenarios
| Move type | Existing deposit | New deposit requirement | Likely result |
| Flat to flat | AED 2,000 | AED 2,000 | Deposit transfers |
| Flat to villa | AED 2,000 | AED 4,000 | Pay the AED 2,000 difference |
| Villa to flat | AED 4,000 | AED 2,000 | DEWA applies transfer or refund rules |
| Move-out without new Dubai premises | AED 2,000 or AED 4,000 | Not applicable | The refund process applies |
DEWA reported in April 2026 that processing of security deposit refunds for amounts up to AED 4,000 dropped from 4 days to 30 minutes, then to 8 minutes. DEWA said this covers around 90 % of refund requests.
That refund statistic matters for tenants leaving Dubai. It matters less for apartment-to-apartment transfers because Move-To usually transfers the deposit instead of refunding it.
How does Ejari affect DEWA transfer?
Ejari affects DEWA transfer because DEWA uses Ejari data to create or update the utility account.
DEWA states that the Move-In process is integrated with Ejari Certificate issuance from the Real Estate Regulatory Agency. When Ejari is issued, DEWA automatically receives customer and property information.
This matters during apartment relocation because the new apartment’s DEWA activation depends on tenancy registration.
Ejari fee table
| Ejari route | Fee details | Total |
| Dubai REST App or DLD website | AED 100 registration, AED 10 knowledge fee, AED 10 innovation fee, AED 55 service partner fee, AED 2.75 VAT | AED 177.75 |
| Real Estate Services Trustee Center | AED 100 registration, AED 10 knowledge fee, AED 10 innovation fee, AED 95 service partner fee plus VAT | AED 220 |
DLD publishes these Ejari fees on its official Register or Renew Rental Contract service page.
Ejari document basics
DLD lists a copy of the Unified Tenancy Contract for app registration. Trustee center registration requires the original Unified Tenancy Contract and Emirates ID presentation by the applicant.
That means your DEWA transfer file starts with tenancy paperwork, not with a utility form.
What final bill rules apply when moving apartments?
You must settle the final bill for the old premises after DEWA processes the move-out.
DEWA states that customers must settle the final bill amount for the premises from which they moved. DEWA also states that all previous bills must be paid in full before requesting Move-Out.
During Move-Out, DEWA takes final meter readings on the selected deactivation date and time. DEWA then sends the final bill to the registered email address within 24 working hours.
DEWA adjusts the security deposit against the final bill. If the final bill exceeds the security deposit, you pay the difference. If the security deposit exceeds the final bill, DEWA refunds the balance through the selected refund method.
DEWA sends the clearance certificate automatically after final bill settlement. This record helps with landlord disputes, deposit recovery, and old apartment handover.
What is the best DEWA transfer sequence for moving day?
The best sequence is Ejari first, DEWA Move-To second, mover booking third, final cleaning fourth, and old DEWA deactivation last.
This sequence protects both apartments. You confirm the new apartment’s utility activation before your items arrive. You also keep the old apartment usable until the inspection and cleaning are finished.
Use this 5-day practical timeline for apartment shifting:
Five days before moving
Register Ejari or confirm the landlord has completed Ejari. Verify the tenancy contract details, apartment number, premises number, and email address.
Four days before moving
Start DEWA Move-To after Ejari appears. Clear old dues, enter the new Ejari number, select the move-out date, and pay the required amount.
Two to three days before moving
Confirm new apartment electricity and water activation. Test lights, water pressure, air conditioning controls, and kitchen appliance points.
Moving day
Keep the DEWA request number, building move permit, Ejari certificate, and mover booking confirmation in one folder. Many towers ask for proof before elevator booking.
One day after moving
Check the old apartment after cleaning. Confirm move-out deactivation timing. Collect the final bill and clearance certificate after DEWA completes the move-out process.
What mistakes delay the DEWA transfer?
The main DEWA transfer delays come from missing Ejari, unpaid old bills, wrong premises number, and early move-out scheduling.
Here is the practical risk table.
| Mistake | Why does it delay apartment relocation | Correct action |
| No Ejari number | DEWA says Ejari is mandatory for Move-To | Finish Ejari first |
| Old DEWA balance unpaid | DEWA requires outstanding dues settlement | Clear dues before Move-To |
| Wrong premises number | DEWA uses the premises number to identify the property | Photograph the 9-digit number |
| The old move-out date is too early | Cleaning and inspection may still require utilities | Disconnect after handover tasks |
| Wrong phone number | Verification and updates may fail | Update DEWA contact details |
| Ignoring the final bill | The clearance certificate comes after the settlement | Pay the final bill quickly |
| Confusing refund with transfer | Move-To moves the deposit to the new premises | Use Move-To for Dubai-to-Dubai moves |
The highest-risk mistake is choosing the old move-out date before final inspection. Keep electricity and water active until all cleaning, repairs, and landlord checks end.
What are the official entities involved?
The main entities are DEWA, Dubai Land Department, Real Estate Regulatory Agency, Dubai REST, UAE Pass, and Dubai Statistics Center.
DEWA
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority manages electricity and water activation, deactivation, billing, security deposit transfer, and final bills. DEWA provides Move-In, Move-Out, and Move-To services through digital channels.
Dubai Land Department (DLD)
DLD manages property and tenancy services, including Ejari registration. DLD publishes Ejari service fees, service channels, and service timing.
Real Estate Regulatory Agency
Real Estate Regulatory Agency links to Ejari integration for rental contract registration and DEWA Move-In processing. DEWA states that Move-In is integrated with Ejari Certificate issuance from RERA.
Dubai REST
Dubai REST is a DLD digital channel for property services. DLD lists the Dubai REST App as an Ejari registration channel.
UAE Pass
UAE Pass supports digital login for government services. DEWA lists UAE Pass as a login option for existing customers in the Move-In journey.
Final takeaway: Make DEWA transfer the first step in your Dubai move
Transferring DEWA is not just a utility formality. It is the control point that connects your new Ejari, old apartment’s final bill, security deposit, move-in timing, and handover record. When you complete DEWA Move-To early, you reduce the risk of arriving at a new apartment without electricity or water.
The cleanest apartment relocation sequence is simple: finish Ejari, clear old DEWA dues, submit the Move-To request, pay the required charges, and keep your old apartment active until cleaning and inspection end. This order protects both sides of the move. Your new apartment becomes ready for living, and your old apartment closes with a traceable final bill and clearance certificate.
For tenants, the most useful rule is this: do not treat the DEWA transfer as a last-minute task. Treat it as part of your moving timeline. Keep your Ejari number, 9-digit premises number, DEWA account details, payment receipt, and final bill in one folder. That small step gives you cleaner communication with the landlord, building security, movers, and property management.
Dubai apartment shifting becomes easier when utility transfer, tenancy records, and handover evidence move in the same direction. A well-timed DEWA transfer gives your move structure, prevents avoidable delays, and helps you start the new tenancy with fewer administrative surprises.
FAQs
How do I transfer DEWA when moving apartments in Dubai?
Transfer DEWA through DEWA Move-To by entering your new Ejari number, clearing old dues, paying required fees, and selecting the old apartment’s move-out date.
Is Ejari required for a DEWA transfer?
Yes. DEWA states that Ejari for the new premises is mandatory for the Move-To service.
How long does DEWA activation take after payment?
DEWA connects electricity and water within 15 working hours after the security deposit payment and the connection fee payment.
How much is the DEWA deposit for a Dubai apartment?
The DEWA security deposit for a residential flat is AED 2,000. The deposit for a residential villa is AED 4,000.
Do I need to request a DEWA deposit refund during Move-To?
No. DEWA transfers the security deposit to the new premises during Move-To, if the existing deposit is sufficient.
What happens if I move from a flat to a villa?
You pay the security deposit difference because villas require AED 4,000 while flats require AED 2,000.
When does DEWA disconnect the old apartment?
DEWA disconnects electricity and water within 24 working hours from your selected move-out date and time.
When do I receive the final bill?
DEWA sends the final green bill to your registered email after Move-Out processing.
What happens if the final bill is higher than the deposit?
You pay the remaining balance if the final bill exceeds the security deposit. DEWA deducts the bill from the deposit first.
How much does Ejari cost?
Ejari costs AED 177.75 through the Dubai REST App or DLD website and AED 220 through Real Estate Services Trustee Centers.
Bilal Al-Madani
Bilal Al-Madani is a logistics professional specializing in residential relocations and supply chain optimization. With deep experience in the moving industry, he excels in ensuring transit safety, implementing advanced packing methods for high-value items, and managing transport fleets efficiently. He is committed to simplifying the moving process through careful planning, delivering each relocation with precision, reliability, and exceptional attention to detail.
