Understanding DEWA disconnection is essential for anyone moving out of a property in Dubai. Whether you are ending a tenancy, selling a home, or relocating within the city, disconnecting electricity and water at the right time protects you from unnecessary charges and billing disputes. A clear process also helps landlords, tenants, and investors avoid delays during handovers.
In this guide, we explain the DEWA disconnection process step by step, including available methods, required documents, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid. You will also learn how DEWA cancellation works for both temporary and permanent situations, as well as what to expect after your final bill is issued.
- Understanding DEWA disconnection
- Methods to disconnect DEWA services
- Required documents and information
- Step-by-step disconnection process
- Important considerations by user type
- Temporary DEWA disconnection
- Timeline and processing
- Payment and financial considerations
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Understanding Dewa disconnection
DEWA disconnection is the official process of deactivating electricity and water services registered under your name with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. It is required when you move out of a property, terminate a tenancy contract, or complete a property sale.
Completing the DEWA disconnection on time ensures DEWA stops billing your account for utility usage beyond your move-out date. This process also lets DEWA calculate final meter readings accurately and send your closing bill without disputes.
Methods to disconnect Dewa services
DEWA offers multiple disconnection channels so that residents can select the most convenient option. These include online services, the mobile app, and in-person support at customer centres.
Selecting the correct method depends on how quickly you need the service completed and whether you prefer digital access or face-to-face assistance.
1. Online disconnection via the DEWA website
The DEWA website is the most commonly used option for DEWA disconnection due to its convenience and accessibility. It allows users to submit requests without visiting a service centre.
After logging in with your DEWA user ID or UAE Pass, navigate to the Electricity and Water Disconnection Service. You must confirm your move-out date and time and provide an email address to receive the final bill.
If you do not have login credentials, DEWA provides an alternative service request option that does not require registration. You submit your account and identification details through an online form.
2. Mobile app disconnection
The DEWA mobile app provides the same functionality as the website and is suitable for residents who prefer to manage their services on their phone. The app streamlines the process and mirrors the online steps.
Once logged in, locate the electricity and water disconnection service, submit your request, and confirm your contact details. DEWA then issues a move-out notification number, which you should keep for reference.
3. In-person disconnection at customer happiness centres
Residents who prefer offline support can visit DEWA Customer Happiness Centres to complete the disconnection process. This option works well for complex cases or when staff need to review your documents in person.
Bringing all required documents helps DEWA complete the process efficiently and reduces the risk of delays.
Required documents and information
Having the correct documents ready helps you avoid interruptions during DEWA disconnection. Preparation is crucial for tenants nearing the end of their lease.
- DEWA account number
- Emirates ID or passport with a valid visa
- UAE mobile number
- Tenancy contract (for tenants)
- Copy of landlord’s passport and visa (for tenants)
- Proof of ownership (for property owners)
DEWA Disconnection Fees
DEWA charges the following fees for disconnection:
- AED 100 for disconnecting DEWA small metres
- AED 300 for disconnecting DEWA large metres
- AED 10 for the knowledge fee
- AED 10 for the innovation fee
- AED 100 for Demolish Admin fee
Step-by-step disconnection process
DEWA disconnection follows a clear process from request submission to final settlement. Knowing each stage ensures you do not overlook any steps.
Step 1: Pre-disconnection requirements
Before submitting your request, pay all outstanding DEWA bills. Confirm your move-out date matches your tenancy end date or handover agreement, and make sure your contact details are correct.
Step 2: During the disconnection request
When submitting the request, select the exact move-out date and time. Confirm the email address for receiving the final bill and note the move-out notification number issued by DEWA. You may also select your preferred method for refunding the security deposit.
Step 3: On the move-out date
On the selected date, DEWA disconnects electricity and water services and records final meter readings. These readings ensure that no usage is billed beyond your occupancy period.
Step 4: Post-disconnection actions
After disconnection, DEWA issues the final bill, usually within 24 hours. Once paid, you can submit a request to recover your security deposit and close your account entirely.
Important considerations by user type
Different users have different responsibilities during the DEWA disconnection, depending on their role in the property.
- Tenants: Tenants should ensure that the Dewa disconnection date aligns with their actual move-out date and Ejari expiry. Keeping the move-out notification number and final bill is important for avoiding disputes.
- Property owners and landlords: Landlords should confirm that tenants complete the Dewa disconnection on time and review final bills to ensure there are no unpaid charges before re-letting the property.
- Investors and developers: Investors managing multiple properties should carefully plan Dewa disconnections during tenant changes or sales to prevent service overlaps and billing confusion.
Temporary DEWA disconnection
Temporary DEWA cancellation is available for maintenance, renovations, or short-term service interruptions. This option allows utilities to be paused without closing the account.
Requests must be submitted in advance and are generally free of disconnection charges, making them suitable for both residential and commercial properties.
Temporary disconnection procedure
To request a temporary disconnection, log in to your DEWA account and submit the outage request form at least five working days before the required date. A reference number will be issued for tracking.
Timeline and processing
DEWA disconnection timelines vary slightly by submission method, but most steps are completed within a few days.
Requests are processed shortly after submission, services are disconnected on the chosen date, and the final bill is issued within 24 hours. Deposit refunds are processed after the final bill payment has been made.
Payment and financial considerations
Understanding the financial aspects of DEWA disconnection helps avoid delays in closing your account.
Final bill contents
The final bill includes utility usage through the disconnection date, applicable fees, and adjustments based on the final meter readings. Any equipment damage charges may also be included.
Security deposit refund
After paying the final bill, submit a refund request through your DEWA account. Refunds are issued by cheque or online transfer, depending on availability.
Common mistakes to avoid
Common errors during DEWA disconnection can result in delays, additional charges, or disputes. Key mistakes to avoid include:
- Incorrect move-out dates: Submitting the wrong date can result in being billed for usage after leaving the property.
- Unpaid bills: Outstanding payments can delay disconnection.
- Losing the move-out notification number: This number is essential for tracking your request and final bill.
- Disconnecting too early: Shutting off services before your actual move-out can cause billing issues or inconvenience.
- Failing to request your deposit refund: Delaying this step can slow down the return of your security deposit.
- Not verifying meter readings: Incorrect readings can lead to overcharging.
- Not keeping copies of documents: Retain all final bills, notifications, and receipts to protect against disputes.
Key takeaways
DEWA disconnection should always be completed on or before your official move-out date to prevent being charged for electricity and water usage after leaving the property. Submitting the request early, confirming the correct date and time, and keeping the move-out notification number are essential for tracking and avoiding billing issues.
All outstanding bills must be settled before DEWA disconnection is finalised. After this, DEWA records the final meter readings and issues the closing bill, typically within 24 hours. Paying the final bill promptly allows you to request your security deposit refund without delays and ensures a smooth handover.
FAQs
The process typically takes a few days from submission to receipt of the final bill. Final meter readings are recorded on the selected move-out date.
Outstanding bills must be cleared before Dewa disconnection can be completed, as unpaid amounts delay the process.
It is a reference number issued after your request is submitted and is required for tracking and follow-up purposes.
Temporary disconnection is generally free of charges, provided the request is submitted at least five working days in advance.
After paying the final bill, submit a refund request through your DEWA account and select ‘cheque’ or ‘online transfer’ where available.
