Sharjah

💡

Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity and Water Services

Service Provider

  • The primary provider of electricity and water in Sharjah is the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA).
  • SEWA is a government-owned entity responsible for supplying electricity, water, and gas to residential, commercial, and industrial properties in Sharjah.

How to Set Up Electricity and Water Services

  1. Visit SEWA: You can visit a SEWA customer service center or set up your account online through their official website (www.sewa.gov.ae).
  2. Required Documents:
    • A copy of your Emirates ID (mandatory for residents).
    • A copy of your passport and residence visa.
    • A copy of your tenancy contract (Ejari) or title deed if you own the property.
    • A security deposit (details below).
  3. Security Deposit:
    • For apartments: AED 2,000–4,000 (depending on the size of the property).
    • For villas: AED 4,000–6,000.
    • The deposit is refundable when you close your account and settle all outstanding bills.
  4. Activation Time: Services are typically activated within 24–48 hours after completing the application and paying the deposit.

Average Costs

  • Electricity: AED 0.30–0.45 per kWh (kilowatt-hour), depending on consumption.
  • Water: AED 4.00 per 1,000 gallons.
  • Monthly bills vary based on usage, with an average household spending AED 500–1,500 per month for electricity and water combined.

Payment Methods

  • SEWA bills can be paid through:
    • SEWA’s website or mobile app.
    • Kiosks located in malls and public areas.
    • Bank transfers or online banking.
    • SEWA customer service centers.
    • Payment through UAE Exchange or other authorized agents.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Energy Efficiency: Sharjah experiences hot summers, so air conditioning is a significant part of electricity consumption. Use energy-efficient appliances and set your AC to 24°C to save on costs.
  • Water Conservation: Water is a precious resource in the UAE. SEWA encourages residents to conserve water by fixing leaks and using water-saving devices.

2. Gas Services

Service Provider

  • SEWA also provides piped natural gas to many residential and commercial properties in Sharjah.
  • In areas where piped gas is unavailable, residents rely on LPG cylinders, which can be purchased from authorized distributors.

How to Set Up Gas Services

  1. Piped Gas:
    • If your building or villa is connected to SEWA’s gas network, you can apply for gas services along with electricity and water.
    • The process is similar to setting up electricity and water services (see above).
  2. LPG Cylinders:
    • Contact an authorized gas distributor in Sharjah (e.g., Emirates Gas or ADNOC Distribution).
    • Provide your address and contact details for delivery.

Average Costs

  • Piped Gas: AED 0.15–0.20 per cubic meter.
  • LPG Cylinders: AED 60–120 per cylinder, depending on size (11kg or 22kg).

Payment Methods

  • Piped gas charges are included in your SEWA bill.
  • LPG cylinders are paid for upon delivery (cash or card, depending on the distributor).

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Safety: Ensure that gas connections and appliances are regularly inspected for leaks. SEWA conducts periodic safety checks for piped gas users.
  • Cylinder Storage: If using LPG cylinders, store them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

3. Internet, TV, and Landline Services

Service Providers

  • The two main telecom providers in Sharjah are:
    1. Etisalat (www.etisalat.ae)
    2. du (www.du.ae)
  • Both providers offer bundled packages that include internet, TV, and landline services.

How to Set Up Internet Services

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare packages from Etisalat and du based on your needs (e.g., internet speed, TV channels, and additional features).
  2. Visit a Service Center: Go to the nearest Etisalat or du store, or apply online.
  3. Required Documents:
    • A copy of your Emirates ID.
    • A copy of your passport and residence visa.
    • A copy of your tenancy contract or title deed.
  4. Installation:
    • Installation is typically completed within 2–5 working days.
    • Some providers may charge an installation fee (AED 100–200), though promotions often waive this fee.

Average Costs

  • Internet: AED 300–600 per month for speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
  • TV: AED 100–300 per month, depending on the number of channels and whether premium content (e.g., sports or movies) is included.
  • Landline: Often included in internet/TV bundles, with free local calls.

Payment Methods

  • Online through the provider’s website or app.
  • At service centers or kiosks.
  • Through bank transfers or direct debit.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Bundle Deals: Bundling internet, TV, and landline services can save money.
  • Mobile Data: If you don’t need home internet, consider using mobile data plans, which are widely available and often sufficient for light usage.
  • VPNs: Some websites and services are restricted in the UAE. If you need access to such services, ensure you use a legal VPN.

4. General Tips for Managing Utilities in Sharjah

  • Budgeting: Utilities can be a significant part of your monthly expenses, especially during the summer. Monitor your usage and set reminders for bill payments to avoid late fees.
  • Customer Support: SEWA, Etisalat, and du have 24/7 customer support hotlines. Don’t hesitate to contact them for assistance with billing or technical issues.
  • Mobile Apps: Download the SEWA, Etisalat, and du apps for easy account management, bill payments, and service requests.
  • Community Groups: Join local expat or community groups on social media platforms like Facebook to get recommendations and tips from other residents.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to set up and manage utilities in Sharjah. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!