GUIDE
How much are monthly utility bills in a Dubai apartment?
What you'll pay each month
| Bill | What drives it |
|---|---|
| DEWA electricity | Slab rates: 23 fils/kWh up to 2,000 kWh, then 28, 32 and 38 fils, plus a fuel surcharge (6 fils/kWh in Oct 2026) |
| DEWA water | AED 7.70/m³ up to 27 m³, then 8.80 and 10.12, plus a fuel surcharge (AED 1.10/m³ in Oct 2026) |
| Sewerage | Charged on your DEWA bill |
| Housing fee | 5% of annual rent ÷ 12, on your DEWA bill. Explained |
| Chiller | Fixed capacity charge plus usage. Explained |
| Gas | Usage, plus any standing charge |
| Internet | Your plan's monthly price |
5% VAT applies to DEWA charges.
Worked example: electricity and water only
A month using 1,500 kWh of electricity and 15 m³ of water:
- Electricity: 1,500 × (0.23 + 0.06) = AED 435
- Water: 15 × (7.70 + 1.10) = AED 132
- Plus meter charges, sewerage and 5% VAT
This is an illustration. Your usage depends on home size, AC and how many people live there.
Why summer bills jump
AC is the biggest cost. If your AC runs on your DEWA meter (most villas, some apartments), summer electricity can be several times your winter bill. With district cooling, the consumption part of the chiller bill rises instead.
Keep bills down
- Set the AC to 24°C or above and use timers.
- Close blinds in the afternoon.
- Fix dripping taps and running toilets quickly.
- Track your usage in the DEWA Smart App.
Common questions
Is the housing fee part of my DEWA bill?
Yes: 5% of your annual rent, split across 12 monthly bills.
Why is my DEWA bill so high in summer?
Air conditioning. If it runs on your electricity meter, summer usage can multiply your bill.