Why electricity bills are high in Dubai
Air conditioners run 8–10 months a year and account for 60–70% of all electricity use in an apartment. In summer a 1BR bill can reach 800–1,500 AED per month. This is manageable.
AC — the main cost driver
Set temperature to 24–25°C instead of 18–20°C — saves 15–20%. Clean filters — a dirty AC uses 25% more power. Use a timer — switch off an hour before you wake. Close blinds during the day — reduces heat gain by 10–15%.
Water heater
Put the water heater on a timer — 30 minutes before use is enough. Reduce heating temperature to 55°C instead of 70°C. Insulate hot water pipes.
Lighting and appliances
Replace all bulbs with LED — saves 80% on lighting. Switch appliances off at the socket rather than leaving on standby — standby uses 5–10% of active consumption. Run washing machine and dishwasher at night on lower DEWA tariff.
DEWA tariff tiers
First 2,000 kWh per month — 0.23 AED. Above 4,000 kWh — 0.38 AED. Try to stay within the lower tariff bands.