Dubai’s Transition to Cubic Meters: A Closer Look at DEWA’s Water Billing Update

In a significant move towards sustainability and transparency, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) made a noteworthy change in March 2025 by switching its water billing units from gallons to cubic meters. This change is not merely administrative; it carries important implications for residents, especially as the UAE faces scorching summer months where water consumption typically soars.

Aligning with Global Standards

DEWA’s decision to adopt cubic meters aligns with international standards for water measurement. Historically, the use of imperial gallons could be confusing for many residents, especially those from countries that primarily use the metric system. By converting to cubic meters—which equals 1,000 liters or about 220 imperial gallons—DEWA aims to present a clearer measurement that residents can easily understand. This shift enhances clarity not just for local residents but also for expats who may be more accustomed to metric measurements.

Water Tariffs: What Remains the Same?

Importantly, DEWA has clarified that this shift in measurement does not affect the pricing structure of water tariffs. Customers will still pay the same rates per cubic meter as they did per gallon. This ensures that the transition is administrative rather than a precursor to price increases. As before, a tiered pricing system will continue, where higher water usage incurs higher per-unit costs. This transparency is crucial for residents who are keen on managing their water expenses effectively.

The Spike in Summer Water Consumption

Dubai experiences heightened water usage during the summer months, often recording an increase of around 18-20%. This surge is largely due to increased cooling needs from air conditioning systems, irrigation for gardens, and heightened personal use. According to the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, this uptick makes the transition to cubic meter-based billing particularly relevant, enabling residents to better track their water use in the peak consumption period.

Smart Living Tools for Monitoring Consumption

To empower residents in monitoring their water consumption, DEWA has introduced the Smart Living Program within its mobile app. This program allows users to:

• View daily, weekly, and monthly water usage.
• Receive alerts about unusual spikes in consumption.
• Compare their usage against similar households.

With the transition to cubic meters, these tools have become more intuitive, making it easier for residents to understand their consumption patterns and adjust accordingly.

Regional Comparisons: Dubai’s Move is Part of a Trend

Dubai is not alone in this transition. Other regions in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have also adopted cubic meters for water billing. For instance, Abu Dhabi’s ADDC (Abu Dhabi Distribution Company) and Saudi Arabia’s National Water Company both use cubic meters. Qatar’s Kahramaa has similarly followed suit. However, Bahrain still relies on gallons, although it reportedly plans to transition to cubic meters in 2026, aiming for standardization across the region.

The Importance of Measurement in Sustainability

Switching to cubic meters is about more than just convenience; it aids residents in making informed decisions regarding their environmental footprint. As part of its broader commitment to sustainability, Dubai has set a target to reduce water usage by 30% by 2030. Providing residents with clear, relatable units of measurement can motivate them to curb overconsumption, aligning personal savings with the city’s green goals.

In summary, DEWA’s transition to cubic meters represents a significant step towards enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of water usage in Dubai. As the city grapples with rising temperatures and growing resource demands, this shift equips residents with the tools they need to better manage their water consumption while contributing to broader environmental goals.