When moving into a new home in Dubai, One of the first steps for tenants is setting up DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) utilities. This includes paying a DEWA security deposit, a refundable payment that ensures smooth electricity and water service while protecting against unpaid bills.

This guide covers everything tenants need to know — deposit amounts, payment methods, refund process, and insider tips to avoid delays.

🔹 Why the DEWA Security Deposit Matters

A DEWA security deposit is essentially a financial guarantee. It ensures that if there are unpaid utility bills or damages, DEWA Service can recover the amount. Until your account is closed and your refund is requested, the deposit remains with DEWA.

💡 Pro Tip: Always pay the deposit promptly after signing your Ejari tenancy contract to avoid utility activation delays.

🧾 How to Pay the DEWA Deposit

DEWA offers multiple convenient payment methods:

• Online: DEWA website or Smart App

• In-person: Customer Happiness Centers

• Bank: Online banking or ATMs

• Mobile Wallets: Apple Pay / Samsung Pay

• Card payments: Credit or debit cards

• Kiosks: Located throughout Dubai

💡 Tenant Tip: Paying via the DEWA Smart App is the fastest and easiest option, with instant confirmation.

When Should You Pay?

Your DEWA deposit must be paid before utility activation, usually after signing the tenancy contract and before moving in. Utilities won’t be activated until payment is confirmed.

Claiming Your DEWA Deposit Refund

Here’s how tenants can get their refund hassle-free:

Step 1: Request a Final Bill
Use the DEWA website or app to generate your final invoice.

Step 2: Clear Outstanding Payments
Pay all pending bills to avoid refund delays.

Step 3: Submit Refund Request
Provide:

• Emirates ID

• Proof of final bill payment

• IBAN for bank transfer

Step 4: Receive Your Refund
Refunds are processed within 7–10 working days via:

• Bank transfer

• Cheque collection at DEWA offices

• DEWA-approved payment channels

Common Dewa Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Missed Final Bill Request: Apply at least a week before vacating.

• Incorrect IBAN: Double-check your bank details.

• Unpaid Bills: Clear all dues before requesting a refund.

• Outdated Contact Info: Update your phone and email in DEWA’s system.

What Happens if You Forget to Claim Your Deposit?

If you don’t request a refund, your deposit remains with DEWA. Initiating the process immediately after moving out avoids unnecessary complications.

Extra Tips for Dubai Tenants

• Transfer to a new property: You cannot transfer a deposit; a new deposit is required for each property.

• Landlord payments: Some landlords may cover the deposit, but tenants are generally responsible.

• Check status online: Track your deposit and refund requests through the DEWA Smart App.

• Community differences: Areas like Dubai Marina or JVC may have faster online processing due to high adoption of digital DEWA services.

Make DEWA Setup Easy

Skip the paperwork and let experts handle it. Ejari Registration Service – Dubai can manage everything from deposit payments to refund claims, saving tenants time and stress.

Conclusion

The DEWA security deposit is a mandatory and refundable part of renting in Dubai. By following this guide, tenants can activate utilities smoothly, pay deposits correctly, and claim refunds quickly.

📞 Call us now or visit: Ejari Registration Service – Dubai | +971 55 311 7984