Billing alert: DEWA adopts new way to measure water use

DEWA will adopt the cubic metre as the unit for measuring water consumption, replacing the imperial gallon. The new billing cycle will begin this change in March 2025.

According to a Dubai Media Office report, This decision aligns with Cabinet Resolution No (85) of 2023 and Ministerial Resolution No (43) of 2024.

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Issued by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the resolutions mandate the discontinuation of the imperial gallon (IG) unit in water meters across the UAE.

“Adopting the cubic metre as a globally recognised and uniform measurement unit, rather than the imperial gallon, is a significant step toward enhancing alignment with international best practices. This transition will facilitate benchmarking across sectors, support our efforts to provide world-class services, and enhance DEWA’s leadership in innovation and sustainability — ultimately benefiting customers and stakeholders,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA.

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Customer meters will not be changed, as the currently installed ones are compatible with the cubic metre measurement system.

However, DEWA plans to display both cubic metres and gallons on water bills and customer dashboards as part of the preparatory phase of the transition.

The new unit will be fully adopted in the March 2025 billing cycle, and customers will be informed of the change through official communication channels.