How to Set Up a FEWA (EWE) Account in the UAE

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Is a FEWA Account?
• Who Needs to Open a FEWA Account?
• Documents Required for FEWA Account Registration
• Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your FEWA Account
• How to Activate or Transfer an Existing FEWA Account
• Typical Fees and Security Deposits
• Online vs In-Person Registration: Pros and Cons
• How to Track and Pay Your FEWA Bills
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Case Study: Opening a FEWA Account for a Rented Apartment in Ajman
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion
• Get Help with Property Setup via Homecubes

Introduction

Setting up a utility account is one of the first and most essential steps when moving into a new home or office in the UAE. For residents living in the northern emirates like Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, or Ras Al Khaimah, this usually means registering with the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA), which now operates under the Etihad Water and Electricity (EWE) brand. Opening a FEWA account ensures that you have access to critical utilities like electricity and water.

In this guide, we walk you through the full process of setting up a FEWA account, including documents needed, application steps, costs, and helpful tips to avoid delays or complications.

What Is a FEWA Account?

A FEWA account provides access to residential or commercial electricity and water services in the northern emirates of the UAE. It is essential for both homeowners and tenants to register this account in their name to ensure uninterrupted utility services.

In 2023, FEWA was rebranded to Etihad Water and Electricity (EWE). However, the terms “FEWA” and “EWE” are still used interchangeably by residents and service providers.

Who Needs to Open a FEWA Account?

You will need to open a FEWA account if you:

• Are moving into a property in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Umm Al Quwain
• Are leasing or buying a residential or commercial property
• Want to transfer an existing account to your name

Note: Developers or landlords typically close previous accounts, so the new occupant must initiate the new registration.

Documents Required for FEWA Account Registration

To set up a new FEWA account, you will need the following documents:

• Emirates ID (original and copy)
• Passport copy with valid visa page
• Tenancy contract or title deed (Ejari not always required, but strongly recommended)
• DEWA clearance certificate (in rare cases of account transfer)
• Trade license and authorization letter (for commercial accounts)

All documents must be valid and submitted in either PDF or scanned format if applying online.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your FEWA Account

1. Visit the Etihad WE Customer Portal

1. Choose Your Service Type
   Select “New Connection” for new tenants/owners, or “Transfer” for switching existing accounts.
2. Upload Required Documents
   Submit your Emirates ID, tenancy agreement, and passport via the platform.
3. Pay the Security Deposit
   A refundable deposit is mandatory:
   • AED 1,000–2,000 for residential units
   • AED 5,000 or more for commercial properties
4. Receive Your Account Details
   You’ll get a new FEWA account number, login credentials, and estimated activation time.
5. Wait for Activation
   Activation usually takes 1–2 working days. Technicians may visit the premises.

How to Activate or Transfer an Existing FEWA Account

If you’re not starting from scratch but moving into a place with an active FEWA account:

• Visit the FEWA branch or portal
• Request an account transfer under your name
• Submit a new tenancy agreement
• Pay the activation/re-registration fee
• Confirm the handover date from the landlord

Typical Fees and Security Deposits

All fees are refundable upon account cancellation, minus any outstanding usage.

Online vs In-Person Registration: Pros and Cons

Online Registration

• Faster processing (1–2 days)
• Document upload and payment from home
• Email and SMS alerts

In-Person Registration

• Recommended for urgent or complex cases
• Allows direct interaction with customer service
• Immediate clarification on documents and deposits

If you’re unfamiliar with digital platforms, in-person support might save time by reducing back-and-forth corrections.

How to Track and Pay Your FEWA Bills

Once your account is activated, you can manage everything through the Etihad WE portal or mobile app:

• Track usage: Monitor electricity and water consumption in real time
• Make payments: Secure card or wallet payments via the dashboard
• Download bills: For record-keeping or rental proof
• Set auto-pay: Avoid missed due dates

Payments can also be made at:

• Etihad WE branches
• Kiosks in shopping malls
• Authorized exchange houses

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not submitting a valid tenancy contract
• Using expired Emirates ID or visa
• Forgetting to collect the final bill from the previous tenant
• Not checking for unpaid dues linked to the meter number
• Not verifying if the building is already connected to Etihad WE

Case Study: Opening a FEWA Account for a Rented Apartment in Ajman

Profile: Expat tenant moving into a 2-bedroom apartment in Al Nuaimiya, Ajman.

Steps Taken:

• Signed tenancy agreement valid for 12 months
• Registered the lease online with the Ajman Municipality
• Applied for FEWA account on Etihad WE portal
• Uploaded documents and paid AED 1,500 deposit
• Received account activation in 24 hours

Outcome: Successfully moved in with utilities running before move-in day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I open a FEWA account without a tenancy contract?
No. A valid tenancy contract or ownership deed is mandatory.

Is the deposit refundable?
Yes, upon closing the account and settling the final bill.

How long does activation take?
1 to 2 business days, though some accounts activate on the same day.

Can I pay the deposit online?
Yes. Secure online payment is available through the FEWA portal.

Can I manage my bills via mobile?
Yes, the Etihad WE mobile app allows full account management, payment, and tracking.

Conclusion

Setting up a FEWA account is a vital part of settling into your new property in the northern emirates of the UAE. By understanding the documents, steps, and fees involved, you can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure uninterrupted water and electricity services. Whether you’re a tenant, homeowner, or commercial operator, following the correct registration process through Etihad Water and Electricity guarantees a smoother move-in experience.

With new digital tools and enhanced service channels, opening and managing your FEWA account is now easier than ever. Just ensure your paperwork is complete, your payments are on time, and you monitor your utility usage responsibly. Whether you’re moving into a high-rise in Ajman or a villa in Fujairah, a FEWA account keeps your daily life running.

Get Help with Property Setup via Homecubes

At Homecubes, we help clients navigate utility registrations, tenancy processes, and property management with ease. While we are currently awaiting our VARA license approval before launching our tokenized property platform, we’re already supporting property investors and renters with real-world, on-the-ground setup assistance.

Need help with your FEWA account, Ejari, or utility transfer?
👉 Reach out to Homecubes today and simplify your move into the UAE property market.