Utilities such as water and electricity charges are paid by the occupant. In some units there is a standard water charge (Dhs 30 per month), but most units charge by consumption. A villa's electricity bill can be over Dhs. 600 per month in the summer because of air conditioning costs. Water costs in a villa can be over Dhs. 200 per month if you water a small garden (and you will have to water daily if you want anything to grow). By contrast, water and electricity charges for a small three-bedroom apartment typically total less at Dhs. 400 per month although these will rise in the hot months. Utility bills are dropped off at your villa on an irregular basis, meaning that you can expect to pay for two or three months' consumption at a time. You should always ensure that you pay the bill before it reaches Dhs 500 as after that you are cut off. You can go and enquire what is owing from the Water and Electricity Department at any time they are open. Your neighbours will be able to tell you what kind of routine, if any, to expect with regard to bill delivery. Electricity is 220 volts at 50 cycles per second.

Telephone bills are sent to you monthly and must be paid in full within two weeks or your service will be disconnected. If this happens, you will have to repay the initial deposit, plus the amount owed on your bill, before service will be reconnected. On the subject of telephone calls, keep in mind that calls originating from the UAE are expensive. Typically, a one-minute call (or FAX) to North America will cost about US$2.00. It can be much less expensive to have friends and relatives call you or to plan your calls during non-peak hours (before 7:00 AM or after 9:00 PM, UAE time) and anytime on Fridays. Calls at these times are discounted by 20%.

Government Offices are only open for business between 7.30 am and 2.00 pm weekdays. They are all closed on Thursdays and Fridays.