Moving to Dubai is exciting, but knowing which essential services when moving to Dubai to activate will make your transition seamless. From setting up utilities with DEWA to choosing the right internet provider and obtaining your Emirates ID, this guide walks you through each step with timelines, costs, and insider tips.
Let’s walk through the key steps, timelines, costs, and insider tips to make your transition seamless.
1. Setting Up DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority)
Every home in Dubai requires an active DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority) account for electricity and water. Activating DEWA is one of the first essential services when moving to Dubai you’ll need.
What You Need
- Ejari (tenancy contract registered in Dubai’s rental system)
- Passport copy & Emirates ID (or visa copy)
- DEWA premise number (on your door frame)
Steps to Activate
- Register Ejari at a typing centre or online:
Ejari Portal - Apply for DEWA via the DEWA website or app:
DEWA Official - Pay Deposit & Fees
- Apartment: AED 2,000 deposit
- Villa: AED 4,000 deposit
- Activation fee: AED 110–130
- Receive Connection within 24 hours (typically).
Tip: If your building uses district cooling (Empower or Emicool), set up that account separately after DEWA activation.
District Cooling (AC) Providers
Some communities use providers like Empower or Emicool for cooling (charged separately). Check with your landlord or property manager if you need a separate cooling account setup.
2. Choosing an Internet and Mobile Provider
Dubai has excellent internet infrastructure, but there are only a few key providers you’ll choose from.
Top Telecom Providers:
Etisalat
- Speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Monthly plans ranging from AED 279 to AED 599
- Installation typically takes 1–2 days
- Best for business-grade use and professionals working remotely.
Du
- Provides speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Monthly plans between AED 249 and AED 479
- Installation takes 1–3 days
- Affordable option for casual users and families.
Virgin Mobile
- Speeds range from 100 Mbps to 500 Mbps
- Monthly prices from AED 199 to AED 399.
- Offers instant setup with eSIM
- Ideal for tech-savvy users and digital nomads.
Key Services to Set Up:
- Home internet (Wi-Fi)
- Mobile SIM (Prepaid or Postpaid)
- TV Packages (optional but bundled in many plans)
Required Documents:
- Emirates ID (or passport/visa copy if ID is pending)
- Ejari
- DEWA account number
- Residence location details
Installation & Setup:
Home installation usually takes 1–3 working days. Some buildings offer pre-installed fiber lines—just request activation via the provider’s app or hotline.
Remote Workers Tip:
If you’re using tools like Google Cloud VPS or working in cloud hosting environments, both providers offer stable, fast speeds—but Etisalat tends to be more reliable for business-grade use.
3. Emirates ID Setup When Moving to Dubai
The Emirates ID is your official identity in the UAE—used for banking, healthcare, housing, and more. You must apply immediately after your visa is stamped.
Steps to Apply:
- Medical Fitness Test
Mandatory for all working residents over 18.
➤ Go to a DHA-approved clinic for blood test & X-ray (AED 250–350) - Submit Emirates ID Application
- Apply at ICA centers or use the ICA Smart Services Portal
- Documents needed:
- Passport & visa
- Medical test report
- Passport photo (white background)
- Biometrics Appointment
- First-time applicants must visit an Emirates ID center for fingerprinting.
- Choose from centers in Al Barsha, Deira, or Al Nahda.
- Collection & Delivery
- Processing Time: 5–7 working days
- Cost: AED 100/year (3-year visa = AED 300)
Tip for Families:
Each member, including children, must have their own Emirates ID. Kids under 15 skip biometrics.
Utility Setup Checklist
| Service | What You Need | Typical Cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ejari | Tenancy Contract, Passport | AED 195 | Same Day |
| DEWA Activation | Ejari, Emirates ID/Passport | AED 2,000–4,000 | 1–2 Days |
| Cooling Service | DEWA or direct via Empower/Emicool | AED 1,000+ (deposit) | 1–2 Days |
| Internet & TV | Ejari, DEWA number, ID | AED 249–599/month | 1–3 Days |
| Mobile SIM | Emirates ID (or visa) | AED 50+ (prepaid) | Instant |
| Emirates ID | Medical Test, Passport, Visa | AED 100/year | 7–10 Days |
Software & Tools to Simplify Setup
- DEWA App – For bill payments and meter readings.
- MyDu / Etisalat UAE Apps – For plan management.
- Cloud Hosting Services – Ideal for remote workers and freelancers.
- Google VPS Server – Helps streamline work setup in your new home.
- Ejari App – Track rental registration and renewals online.
FAQs – Moving to Dubai: Essential Services
1. Can I set up DEWA without an Emirates ID?
Yes, you can apply with a passport and valid visa copy, but you’ll need the Emirates ID for full service access and other linked services.
2. How long does DEWA take to activate?
Usually within 1 working day, especially if applied during weekdays. Delays can occur on weekends or holidays.
3. Which is better for home internet: Du or Etisalat?
Etisalat is preferred for higher speeds and business use (e.g., cloud hosting, remote work). Du offers better affordability for casual users.
4. What if my Emirates ID is delayed?
You can use your passport and visa to set up most services initially, but update your ID once issued to avoid service interruptions.
5. Do I need to register cooling services separately?
Yes, if your building uses Empower or Emicool, you’ll need to activate and manage cooling services separately from DEWA.
Relocating to Dubai is smoother when you know what to expect. With this guide, you’ll have utilities, connectivity, and legal ID sorted out quickly—leaving you free to explore the city’s many exciting opportunities. Welcome to your new home in the UAE!
