DEWA Deposit Amount & Refund Guide: How Much You Pay and How to Get It Back

The DEWA security deposit is one of those upfront costs that catches many new Dubai residents off guard. Whether you are renting an apartment or buying a villa, understanding exactly how much you will pay—and how to get it back when you leave—can save you time and frustration. Here is everything you need to know about DEWA deposits in 2026.

How Much Is the DEWA Deposit by Property Type?

DEWA charges a refundable security deposit of AED 2,000 for apartments and AED 4,000 for villas, with commercial properties ranging from AED 2,000 to AED 30,000+.

The deposit amount is determined by your property type, not its size or location. A studio apartment in JLT has the same AED 2,000 deposit as a three-bedroom penthouse in Downtown Dubai. Here is the complete breakdown:

These deposit amounts have been stable since 2019. DEWA reviews them periodically but has not increased residential deposits in recent years. When planning your move budget, include the DEWA deposit alongside other costs like Ejari registration (AED 220), agent fees, and your residential moving service.

How Do You Get Your DEWA Deposit Refund?

To get your DEWA deposit back, apply for disconnection through the DEWA app or website, settle your final bill, and the remaining deposit balance is refunded to your bank within 2-4 weeks.

The refund process is straightforward but requires you to follow specific steps. Missing any step can delay your refund significantly. Here is the exact process:

1. Apply for disconnection: Submit a "Move Out" request through the DEWA app or website at least 2 business days before your move-out date. You can also visit a customer happiness centre.
2. Schedule the disconnection date: Choose the date you want DEWA services to stop. This is typically your tenancy contract end date or the day you hand over keys to your landlord.
3. Final meter reading: DEWA will take a final meter reading on or near your disconnection date. In many cases, this is done remotely using smart meters.
4. Settle your final bill: Pay any outstanding consumption charges. DEWA will deduct the final bill amount from your security deposit automatically.
5. Provide bank details: Enter your UAE bank account IBAN for the refund transfer. International bank transfers are also possible but take longer.
6. Receive your refund: The balance (deposit minus final bill) is transferred to your account within 2-4 weeks.

For example, if you paid an AED 2,000 deposit and your final bill is AED 350, you will receive AED 1,650 back. If your final bill exceeds the deposit, you will need to pay the difference before account closure.

How Long Does the DEWA Refund Take?

DEWA deposit refunds typically take 2-4 weeks after account closure, though some residents report receiving refunds in as little as 10 business days via bank transfer.

The refund timeline depends on several factors:

• Method of original payment: Deposits originally paid by credit card may be refunded faster than those paid in cash.
• Bank processing time: UAE bank transfers are typically faster than international transfers. If you are leaving the country, provide a UAE bank account if possible.
• Outstanding balance resolution: If there are disputes about the final bill amount, the refund will be held until they are resolved.
• Peak season delays: During September-November, when many lease renewals occur, processing volumes increase and refunds may take closer to 4 weeks.

If your refund has not arrived after 30 days, contact DEWA customer service at 991 with your account number and disconnection reference. You can also track the status through the DEWA app under "My Requests."

What Happens to Your Deposit When Moving Between Dubai Properties?

When moving within Dubai, your existing DEWA deposit can be transferred to your new property if both are the same type, saving you from paying a second deposit upfront.

If you are relocating from one Dubai apartment to another, DEWA allows deposit transfers. Here is how it works:

• Same property type: Moving apartment to apartment means your AED 2,000 deposit transfers directly. No additional payment needed.
• Upgrading: Moving from apartment (AED 2,000) to villa (AED 4,000) requires you to pay the AED 2,000 difference.
• Downgrading: Moving from villa (AED 4,000) to apartment (AED 2,000) means AED 2,000 is refunded after your final bill at the villa is settled.

To arrange a deposit transfer, apply for both "Move Out" and "Move In" simultaneously through the DEWA app. Mention in your application notes that you want the deposit transferred. Our team at Movers Dubai helps coordinate these transitions every day—with 15,000+ completed moves, we have seen every possible DEWA scenario.

Can You Reduce or Avoid the DEWA Deposit?

The DEWA deposit is mandatory for all new account holders and cannot be waived, reduced, or negotiated regardless of your property type or payment history.

Unlike some utility providers in other countries, DEWA does not offer deposit waivers for good credit history or autopay enrollment. The deposit is a standard requirement applied equally to all customers. Here are some common questions about this:

• Can my landlord pay it? Some landlords include the DEWA deposit in the move-in package, but this is negotiable and not standard practice.
• Can I pay in installments? No, the full deposit must be paid at the time of application.
• Do long-term residents get exemptions? No, even residents who have had continuous DEWA accounts for years must pay the deposit for each new property.
• Is it different for UAE nationals? The deposit amounts are the same for UAE nationals and expatriates.

When budgeting for your move, plan for the DEWA deposit alongside your moving costs. Getting a free quote from us helps you understand the total financial picture for your relocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does DEWA Charge Interest on the Security Deposit?

No, DEWA does not pay interest on the security deposit held during your tenancy. The exact amount you deposited (minus your final bill deductions) is what you receive back upon account closure. This applies to all property types—residential, commercial, and industrial. The deposit functions purely as a guarantee against unpaid bills, not as a savings or investment vehicle. If you are looking for ways to maximize the value of your moving budget, consider timing your move during off-peak periods when both moving companies and landlords may offer better rates.

What If I Lose My DEWA Deposit Receipt?

Losing your DEWA deposit receipt does not affect your ability to receive a refund. DEWA maintains complete digital records of all deposits linked to your Emirates ID and account number. When you apply for disconnection, the system automatically calculates the refund based on your deposit on file minus your final bill. If you need proof of deposit for any reason, you can request a statement from DEWA through their app, website, or by visiting a customer happiness centre with your Emirates ID. All transactions since 2015 are available digitally through the DEWA app.

Can I Use My DEWA Deposit to Pay My Final Bill?

Yes, DEWA automatically deducts your final bill from the security deposit during account closure. You do not need to separately pay the final bill and then wait for a full deposit refund—the process is handled as a single transaction. After the final meter reading is taken, DEWA calculates the outstanding amount, deducts it from your deposit, and refunds the remaining balance. If your final bill happens to exceed the deposit amount (which is rare for residential properties), you will need to pay the difference before the account is officially closed and any clearance letter can be issued.

How Do I Get a DEWA Clearance Letter After Refund?

A DEWA clearance letter confirms you have no outstanding balances and is often required when setting up a new DEWA account or as proof for your landlord. You can request a clearance letter through the DEWA app by navigating to "Services" and selecting "Clearance Certificate," or by visiting a customer happiness centre with your Emirates ID. The digital clearance letter is typically available within 1-2 business days after your account is fully closed and the final bill settled. Keep this document safe, as many landlords require it before returning your tenancy security deposit, and DEWA itself requires it when opening new accounts.