More people pay energy bills online or using apps, Dewa says

DUBAI // Paying energy bills online or through apps is becoming more popular, as it was revealed more than 100,000 paid through the Estareeh service already this year compared with 85,000 in total last year.

Estareeh, which is Arabic for “rest”, is a Dubai Electricity and Water Authority initiative in partnership with 19 UAE banks.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and chief executive of Dewa, said: “This supports the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, who said that we should take government services to the people before they come to us.”

The large number of banks and organisations joining with Dewa’s payment service reflects a shared commitment to high standards and ease of use for Dubai residents, he said.

In addition, customers can pay their bills using Etisalat payment machines, EPPCO/ENOC petrol stations and Emirates Post offices. They can also pay at their banks through cashier counters, ATMs, telephone banking and direct debit from their accounts.