Dubai Municipality announced on Tuesday that it has approved a revised sewerage fee structure, marking the first update to the city’s sewerage tariffs in a decade.
The new fees, set to be rolled out in stages over the next three years, aim to support the emirate’s sustainable growth and align with Dubai’s long-term infrastructure goals.
The updated fees are part of Dubai’s broader initiative to promote water conservation and ensure the emirate’s infrastructure can accommodate its rapidly expanding population.
“This increase will apply to existing accounts, including sewage collection fees within areas overseen by Dubai Municipality,” the authority confirmed.
According to the phased plan, residents and businesses will begin paying the increased fees from 2025, with further increments set for 2026 and 2027.
The tariff will start at 1.5 fils per gallon in 2025, rise to 2 fils in 2026, and reach 2.8 fils per gallon by 2027.
These adjustments come in response to Dubai’s robust economic growth, which has driven an increased demand for infrastructure services. Population projections estimate that Dubai will be home to approximately 7.8 million residents by 2040.
This growth has made it essential for the emirate to upgrade and expand its infrastructure to continue offering reliable services to both residents and visitors.
The Municipality has emphasized that the new fee structure remains affordable and is set below the global average, even when compared with cities of similar economic status.
“The gradual fee increase is designed to minimize the financial impact on residents and businesses while helping to meet the city’s long-term sustainability goals,” the authority explained.
In tandem with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which outlines the city’s commitment to sustainable urban planning, these fee increases are also intended to drive water conservation and responsible usage.
By adjusting sewerage fees, the Municipality seeks to encourage the community to adopt sustainable practices, helping preserve water resources and protect the environment in the long term.
This aligns with Dubai’s vision to become a future-ready city, with infrastructure capable of handling a rising population while maintaining a high standard of living.
Dubai’s sewerage fee revision underscores the emirate’s proactive approach in addressing the needs of a growing metropolis while supporting its vision of sustainability.
The new structure, the Municipality noted, will play a pivotal role in supporting the emirate’s goal of establishing a resilient and efficient urban infrastructure.
The Municipality has urged residents and businesses to prepare for the gradual increase and consider adopting water-saving measures to reduce their expenses and contribute to the city’s water conservation efforts.