DEWA Clearance Certificate: A Must-Have
A DEWA clearance certificate in Dubai confirms all outstanding utility bills are paid before moving out, selling, or transferring property. You can apply online or offline by submitting your account details, ID, and required documents, paying final bills, and obtaining approval—usually within 24–48 hours.
Whether you are selling your apartment in Downtown Dubai, moving to a new villa, or transferring property ownership, one essential document you cannot skip is the DEWA clearance certificate.
This certificate ensures all your water and electricity dues are cleared—preventing legal or financial hiccups during property transactions.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What the DEWA clearance certificate is and why it’s crucial.
- Scenarios when you’ll need it.
- The step-by-step DEWA clearance process (online & offline).
- Required documents, fees, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is a DEWA Clearance Certificate and Why is it Required?
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) issues a clearance certificate to confirm that:
- All utility bills are paid in full.
- No pending dues remain against your DEWA account.
- Services can be safely terminated or transferred.
Why it matters:
- Property sale → Needed before the ownership transfer at the Dubai Land Department.
- Tenant move-out → Required by landlords to release security deposits.
- Change of tenants → Ensures no outstanding dues from previous occupants.
Tip: If you’re listing your flat for sale in Dubai, clear your DEWA account early to avoid delays in the sales transaction.
When Do You Need a DEWA Clearance Certificate?
Here are the most common scenarios:
- Selling your property – Whether it’s a Downtown Dubai property for sale or an off-plan property handover, DEWA clearance is mandatory.
- Ending a rental contract – Before moving out, tenants must clear utilities to receive their deposit back.
- Changing ownership or tenancy – Even if you’re passing the property to family.
- Switching property usage – From residential to commercial or vice versa.
Step-by-Step DEWA Clearance Process (Online & Offline)
A) Online Process
- Log in to DEWA’s website or mobile app – Use your DEWA account credentials.
- Select ‘Final Bill Request’ – This starts the clearance request.
- Upload required documents (listed below).
- Pay any outstanding bills – Including the final bill.
- Receive clearance certificate – Usually emailed within 24–48 hours.
B) Offline Process
- Visit a DEWA Customer Happiness Centre.
- Fill out the final bill/clearance request form.
- Submit documents (Emirates ID, DEWA account number, tenancy contract/Title Deed).
- Pay dues at the counter.
- Collect your clearance certificate on the spot or within 1–2 days.
Required Documents for DEWA Clearance
- Emirates ID (copy & original)
- DEWA account number
- Tenancy contract or Title Deed
- Passport copy (for non-residents)
- Security deposit refund request form (if applicable)
DEWA Clearance Certificate Fees
- Final bill payment → Depends on your last month’s usage.
- Clearance certificate issuance fee → AED 50 (approx.).
- Refund processing charges (if applicable) → Varies.
Timeline for DEWA Clearance Approval
- Online application: 24–48 hours.
- Offline application: Same day or next business day.
Common Mistakes That Delay DEWA Clearance
❌ Applying with pending bills or disputes.
❌ Providing incorrect account numbers.
❌ Missing supporting documents.
❌ Last-minute requests before property sale deadlines.
Pro Tips to Get DEWA Clearance Faster
- Apply at least 5 days before move-out or sale.
- Keep digital copies of all documents ready.
- Pay via DEWA’s smart channels for instant confirmation.
- Confirm receipt of your clearance certificate before finalizing any property deal.
Impact on Property Transactions
Without a DEWA clearance certificate:
- The Dubai Land Department will not process ownership transfer.
- Landlords can legally withhold deposits.
- New tenants or owners cannot activate utilities.
If you’re in the market for off plan properties in Dubai or looking for a flat for sale in Dubai, having your DEWA clearance ready can speed up the move-in or sale process significantly.
Conclusion
A DEWA clearance certificate is more than just a utility formality—it’s a key step in smooth property transactions in Dubai.
By following the right steps, submitting accurate documents, and applying early, you can avoid costly delays.
If you’re planning to buy property in Dubai or list your Downtown Dubai property for sale, make DEWA clearance a priority.
FAQs
1. What is a DEWA clearance certificate in Dubai?
A DEWA clearance certificate is an official document issued by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority confirming that all outstanding utility bills have been paid. It’s required for property sales, tenancy changes, or moving out.
2. Why do I need a DEWA clearance certificate when selling my property?
When selling your property in Dubai, the Dubai Land Department requires a DEWA clearance certificate to ensure no unpaid water or electricity bills remain. Without it, ownership transfer cannot proceed.
3. How do I apply for a DEWA clearance certificate online?
You can apply online by logging into DEWA’s website or mobile app, selecting “Final Bill Request,” uploading documents, paying outstanding dues, and receiving the certificate via email within 24–48 hours.
4. What documents are required for a DEWA clearance certificate?
Required documents include Emirates ID, DEWA account number, tenancy contract or Title Deed, and passport copy (for non-residents). Landlords may also need a security deposit refund request form.
5. How much does a DEWA clearance certificate cost?
The certificate issuance fee is around AED 50, but you must also settle your final bill based on last month’s consumption. Additional charges may apply for security deposit refunds.
6. How long does it take to get a DEWA clearance certificate?
Online applications usually take 24–48 hours, while offline requests at DEWA Customer Happiness Centres can be processed the same day or by the next business day.
7. Can tenants apply for DEWA clearance or only property owners?
Both tenants and property owners can apply for a DEWA clearance certificate, as long as they are the registered DEWA account holder and have cleared all outstanding dues.
8. What happens if I don’t get a DEWA clearance certificate?
Without clearance, landlords can withhold deposits, property sales cannot be finalized, and new tenants or owners cannot activate DEWA services for the property.
9. Can I get a DEWA clearance certificate if I have unpaid bills?
No, all outstanding bills and disputes must be cleared before DEWA issues the certificate. You’ll need to pay your final bill in full before approval.
10. Is a DEWA clearance certificate required for off-plan properties?
Yes, once an off-plan property is handed over and utilities are activated, a clearance certificate will be needed for any future sale, tenancy change, or transfer.
11. Can I transfer my DEWA account without a clearance certificate?
No, DEWA requires a clearance certificate before closing an old account and opening a new one for another tenant or owner.
12. How can I avoid delays in getting my DEWA clearance certificate?
Apply at least 5 days before moving out or selling, ensure all bills are paid, double-check account numbers, and keep all required documents ready for upload.
