How to Apply for a Temporary Electricity Supply for Construction Sites in Dubai
Setting up a construction site in Dubai comes with its fair share of logistics, but thanks to recent updates from Dubai Municipality, one part of the process just got simpler. Developers and contractors no longer need to obtain prior approval from Dubai Municipality to connect temporary electricity for under-construction projects. Now, you can directly apply to Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), streamlining the process significantly. Here’s how to apply for a temporary electricity supply for construction sites in Dubai.
Steps to Apply for a Temporary Electricity Supply for Construction Sites
The temporary electricity supply service allows developers to connect power to construction sites, such as new multi-storey buildings or shopping centres, before the project is fully completed and officially certified.
This interim connection is vital for testing building systems and running on-site operations that require power, ensuring everything is ready before the final handover. Follow these easy steps to apply for a temporary electricity connection via DEWA:
- Step 1: Log in to the Dubai Building Permit System.
- Step 2: Submit your application for the temporary electricity service.
- Step 3: Pay the required fees online or through approved channels.
- Step 4: Wait for the municipality’s response, which will be shared via the online system, email, or SMS. This will include the site inspection date (consultants and contractors are not required to be present).
- Step 5: If approved, an electronic NOC (No Objection Certificate) will be issued and made available on the system.
Service Fees for Applying a Temporary Electricity Supply for Construction Sites in Dubai

The cost of applying for a temporary electricity supply in Dubai includes:
- Site Inspection Fee: AED 100 per inspection
- Knowledge and Innovation Fee: AED 20
These charges are payable through a variety of channels, making it convenient no matter how you prefer to pay.
Payment Channels
You can pay the fees for applying for a temporary electricity supply in Dubai through the following channels:
Smart Applications
- Dubai Municipality App
- Dubai Now App
Web Portals
- Dubai Smart Government Portal
Al Ansari Exchange
- Cash/ Cheque (payable to “Al Ansari Exchange”)
Accepted Payment Methods
The accepted payment methods include:
- My Wallet
- Direct Debit
- Credit Card
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
Important Terms and Conditions

Before you apply for a DEWA temporary power connection for construction sites, here are a few rules you need to keep in mind:
- This service applies only to new building permits for multi-storey buildings and shopping centres.
- If your application is rejected, the contractor must address the feedback and submit a new application.
- An expired approval cannot be extended. If your approval expires, you must apply again and pay new fees.
- You cannot operate any part of the building (even partially) until the completion certificate is issued.
- The temporary connection must be followed by a completion certificate application within the timeframe specified in the NOC. Otherwise, DEWA will disconnect the service.
- Applications submitted before midnight are considered for processing on the next working day, if accepted.
- You must apply for this service only after your building’s operational systems are installed and construction has reached the inspection-ready stage.
- For support or questions, you can send a message via the Dubai Building Permit System by selecting:
- Engineering Supervision Services
- Structural Inspection
- Completion & Connection of Utility Services
- Temporary Connection of Utility Services
FAQs
How long does it take to get a temporary electricity supply approved?
It typically takes 2 working days for the Dubai Municipality to process and approve a temporary electricity supply application, provided all required information is complete and the site is ready for inspection.
Are there any fees associated with a temporary electricity supply for construction sites?
Yes, there’s a site inspection fee of AED 100 and a knowledge and innovation fee of AED 20. Additional charges may apply based on DEWA’s connection process.
Can I apply for a temporary electricity supply online or do I need to visit a DEWA office?
You can apply entirely online through the Dubai Building Permit System. There’s no need to visit a DEWA Happiness Centre in Dubai in person.
With the pre-approval requirement from Dubai Municipality removed, getting a temporary electricity supply for construction sites in the city is now more efficient than ever. As long as your site is inspection-ready and you follow the outlined procedures, you can get an electricity connection with minimal hassle.
Whether you’re planning a new development or expanding your portfolio, securing temporary electricity is an essential step in the process. If you’re still searching for the right property, check out new projects launching in Dubai to get started.
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