Wednesday, 25 February 2026| United Arab Emirates| Post Time: 4:21 pm

Following our deep dive into the legalities in The Renter’s Handbook, we now move to the final practical step. This utility setup guide for UAE expats 2026 is your step-by-step tutorial to getting your home ‘live’ instantly.

Utility Setup Guide for UAE Expats 2026; A Step-by-Step Connection Tutorial

In our previous guide (The Ultimate UAE Rental Laws and Utility Setup Guide 2026), we secured your legal residency with the tenancy contract. Now, you need water, electricity, and internet. In 2026, the UAE’s digital infrastructure allows you to handle everything from your phone. This utility setup guide for UAE expats 2026 provides a clear tutorial to ensure you are never left in the dark.

Online DEWA and ADDC activation steps for all Emirates

To get your power and water running, follow these how to activate DEWA and ADDC online steps across the UAE

Upload your tenancy contract and Emirates ID to activate your account digitally.

For Dubai (DEWA)

Wait for the automated SMS/Email after your Ejari is registered.

Log in to the DEWA Smart App using your UAE Pass.

Pay the security deposit (approx. AED 2,130 for apartments).

Connection is usually live within 15 hours.

For Abu Dhabi (ADDC)

Your account is created automatically via the Tawtheeq system.

Confirm your move-in date on the ADDC mobile app to complete the how to activate DEWA and ADDC online process.

For Sharjah (SEWA)

Visit the SEWA website or a nearby SEWA office with your attested tenancy contract (Tasdeeq).

Pay the deposit to activate the service. In 2026, Sharjah is also moving towards an automated system linked to Tasdeeq.

For Northern Emirates (Etihad WE)

If you live in Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, or UAQ, you must register with Etihad Water and Electricity.

Use the Etihad WE app and log in with your UAE Pass.

Choosing Your Internet; Etisalat vs Du

High-speed connectivity is a must for every expat. While both providers offer great speeds, the choice often depends on your building’s location.

Etisalat vs Du home internet plans 2026

• Etisalat: Known for its massive 5G fiber optic network and premium TV bundles (including Elife). Best for families who want comprehensive entertainment packages.
• Du: Highly competitive with its 5G Home Wireless options and flexible month-to-month plans. Often favored by bachelors or those in newer Dubai developments.
• Comparison: When evaluating Etisalat vs Du home internet plans 2026, always check if your building has an exclusive provider, although most new areas now support both.

Cooking Gas; Centralized vs Cylinders

Before you start cooking, you need a gas connection for new apartment UAE.

• Central Gas Systems: If your building has a central tank, register with the provider (e.g., Lootah Gas or Sergas) via their mobile app. You will need to pay a deposit (approx. AED 500).
• LPG Cylinders: If your building does not have central gas, you can order cylinders through apps like Cafu or local distributors.
• Safety First: Ensure a certified technician handles the gas connection for new apartment UAE to check for leaks.

The Essential UAE Home Moving Checklist 2026

Don’t wait until moving day to realize you forgot something. Follow this UAE home moving checklist 2026:

• Ejari/Tawtheeq: Must be active.
• Move-in Permit: Apply for this from your building management or developer (Emaar, Nakheel, etc.).
• Chiller Account: If AC is not included in DEWA, register with Empower or Emicool.
• Home Insurance: Protect your belongings from fire or water damage.
• Final Bill: Ensure the previous tenant has cleared their final DEWA/ADDC bills.

Setting up Air Conditioning

In many parts of the UAE, AC is separate from your electricity bill. This is known as District Cooling.

• Registration: You must open an account with companies like Empower or Emicool.
• Deposit: Be prepared to pay a deposit of roughly AED 2,000 to AED 3,000 depending on the size of your unit. This is a critical part of the utility setup guide for UAE expats 2026.

Conclusion

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone. By using the digital tools provided by the UAE government, you can have your services running in no time. This utility setup guide for UAE expats 2026 completes our 6-part series on living in the UAE. We hope these guides have empowered you to navigate your expat journey with ease.

For more detailed information on rental contracts, refer back to our previous part, The Renter’s Handbook, Ejari, Tenancy Contracts, and Legal Rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long do the online DEWA and ADDC activation steps take? The activation process is very fast, usually taking between 15 to 24 hours after the security deposit is paid online.

2. Can I get a gas connection for new apartment UAE on the same day? For centralized gas, it may take 24–48 hours for a technician to visit and activate the meter.

3. Which is cheaper: Etisalat vs Du home internet plans 2026? Both are priced similarly, but you can find better deals by checking for seasonal promotions or “no-contract” 5G wireless plans.

4. What happens if I forget the UAE home moving checklist 2026 permit? Without a “Move-in Permit,” building security will likely block your moving truck, causing delays and extra costs.

5. Is the utility setup guide for UAE expats 2026 valid for all Emirates? Yes, while the providers (DEWA vs SEWA vs ADDC) vary by Emirate, the digital-first application process remains consistent across the UAE.