Residents in the northern emirate of Fujairah who dig wells for groundwater without a permit from the relevant authorities are subject to hefty fines ranging from Dh2,000 to Dh10,000. The Fujairah Environment Authority provides a service that regulates the drilling of wells according to environmental standards and requirements. This service is applicable to all individuals and commercial, industrial, and mining companies.
The authority has outlined the process for obtaining a permit, starting from filing the application to receiving the permit. The steps include registering as a customer, applying for the electronic service with all required documents, checking the validity of the attached documents, inspecting the site, and submitting the inspection report. If the application is approved, a text message will be sent to pay the environmental fees, and the drilling permit will be issued. Environmental licenses for well possession are also part of the process.
The required documents include a list of vehicles registered in the name of the farm or establishment owner, a copy of the valid trade license for the facility, a copy of the valid environmental license, a valid land map showing the suggested well location, confirmation from Etihad Water and Electricity of no water connection to the location, and a copy of the valid trade license for the drilling company. This service is available to both natural and legal persons.
The application processing time is two working days, and interested parties can apply online via the authority's website. The terms of service stipulate that the drilling company must be licensed in Fujairah, the service does not cover homes and animal barns, and a letter from Etihad Water and Electricity confirming the unavailability of the water network is required. Prior approval from the regulatory authority and necessary permits are mandatory before any modification, change, deepening, cleaning, or maintenance operations on the well.
Facilities must pay monthly fees based on water consumption from the well and renew their environmental license annually. Periodic analysis of the groundwater quality is also required annually. The Fujairah Environment Authority allows the use of the water well according to the provided data, provided all regulations and systems related to well possession are followed. The certificate is invalid if the professional license expires without renewal or if the activity is canceled.
