Fujairah

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Utilities and Services in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates (Housing and Accommodation)

Fujairah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, offers a relatively affordable and straightforward process for setting up utilities and services for housing and accommodation. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the key utility categories, typical costs, setup procedures, required documents, payment methods, and local considerations.

1. Electricity and Water

Electricity and water services in Fujairah are managed by the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA), which serves the northern emirates, including Fujairah.

Setup Process

  • Step 1: Visit the nearest FEWA office or use their online portal (https://www.fewa.gov.ae) to apply for a new connection.
  • Step 2: Submit the required documents (listed below).
  • Step 3: Pay the security deposit and connection fees.
  • Step 4: FEWA will schedule a technician visit to activate the connection.

Required Documents

  • Tenancy contract (Ejari registration is not mandatory in Fujairah but may be requested in some cases).
  • Emirates ID (copy and original).
  • Passport copy with a valid UAE residence visa.
  • Title deed (if you own the property).
  • Trade license (if the property is commercial).

Costs

  • Security Deposit: AED 1,000–2,000 for apartments; AED 2,000–4,000 for villas (refundable upon cancellation of the service).
  • Monthly Costs:
    • Electricity: AED 0.30–0.45 per kWh (depending on usage tier).
    • Water: AED 4–5 per 1,000 gallons.
  • Connection Fee: AED 100–300 (one-time).

Payment Methods

  • Online via the FEWA website or mobile app.
  • Bank transfers or direct debit.
  • Payment kiosks located in malls and public areas.
  • FEWA customer service centers.

Local Considerations

  • FEWA bills are issued monthly and include both electricity and water charges.
  • Monitor your consumption to avoid high bills, especially during summer when air conditioning usage increases significantly.
  • Ensure your landlord has cleared any outstanding bills before moving in.

2. Gas

Gas for cooking and heating in Fujairah is typically supplied in two ways:

  • Centralized Gas Systems: Common in newer apartment buildings and villas.
  • LPG Cylinders: Used in older properties or standalone villas.

Setup Process

  • For centralized gas systems, the landlord or property management company usually arranges the connection. You may need to register with the gas provider.
  • For LPG cylinders, you can contact local suppliers or gas delivery companies.

Required Documents

  • Tenancy contract (for centralized systems).
  • Emirates ID (for registration with centralized providers).

Costs

  • Centralized Gas: AED 100–200 per month, depending on usage.
  • LPG Cylinders: AED 60–120 per cylinder (refillable).

Payment Methods

  • Centralized gas: Included in monthly utility bills or paid directly to the provider.
  • LPG cylinders: Cash on delivery or payment via mobile apps (if the supplier offers this option).

Local Considerations

  • Always check the safety of gas connections and ensure regular maintenance.
  • For LPG cylinders, keep the supplier’s contact details handy for refills.

3. Internet, TV, and Landline

Telecommunication services in Fujairah are provided by Etisalat and du, the two main telecom operators in the UAE.

Setup Process

  • Visit the nearest Etisalat or du office, or apply online through their websites.
  • Choose a package that suits your needs (internet-only, internet + TV, or internet + TV + landline).
  • Submit the required documents and pay the installation fee.

Required Documents

  • Emirates ID (copy and original).
  • Tenancy contract.
  • Passport copy with a valid UAE residence visa.

Costs

  • Installation Fee: AED 100–200 (one-time).
  • Monthly Costs:
    • Basic internet packages: AED 250–400 (speeds of 100 Mbps or higher).
    • Bundled packages (internet + TV + landline): AED 400–600.
  • Optional Add-ons: Premium TV channels, international calling plans, etc.

Payment Methods

  • Online via the provider’s website or mobile app.
  • Direct debit or credit card.
  • Payment kiosks or customer service centers.

Local Considerations

  • Internet speeds in Fujairah are generally high, and fiber-optic connections are widely available.
  • Compare packages from Etisalat and du to find the best deal for your needs.
  • Some landlords include basic internet in the rent, so check before signing a tenancy contract.

4. Air Conditioning (Cooling)

In Fujairah, air conditioning is essential due to the hot climate. Cooling is typically provided in two ways:

  • District Cooling: Centralized cooling systems in newer buildings.
  • Split or Window AC Units: Common in older properties.

Setup Process

  • District cooling is usually managed by the building management, and charges are included in your utility bill.
  • For split or window AC units, ensure they are functional before moving in. Maintenance is typically the landlord’s responsibility.

Costs

  • District Cooling: AED 500–1,000 per month, depending on the size of the property and usage.
  • Split/Window AC Units: Electricity costs are included in your FEWA bill.

Local Considerations

  • Ensure the AC units are well-maintained to avoid high electricity bills.
  • Discuss maintenance responsibilities with your landlord before signing the tenancy agreement.

5. Waste Management

Waste collection and disposal in Fujairah are managed by the Fujairah Municipality.

Costs

  • Waste management fees are typically included in your annual housing contract or municipality fees (paid by the landlord).

Local Considerations

  • Recycling facilities are limited in Fujairah, but some private companies offer recycling services.
  • Keep your surroundings clean to comply with local regulations and avoid fines.

General Tips for New Residents

  1. Utility Transfers: If you’re moving into a previously occupied property, ensure the previous tenant has cleared all outstanding bills. You may need a clearance certificate from FEWA.
  2. Bundled Services: Consider bundling internet, TV, and landline services to save money.
  3. Energy Efficiency: Use energy-efficient appliances and monitor your consumption to reduce costs.
  4. Emergency Contacts: Keep the contact numbers of utility providers handy for emergencies or service issues.
  5. Language: Most service providers have English-speaking staff, but learning basic Arabic phrases can be helpful.

By following this guide, you can efficiently set up utilities and services in Fujairah, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.