An annual charge, paid monthly
It has been in existance for a long time, but never really pushed, so most of us were never even aware of it.
Now the DM are keen to receive these taxes, and have determined that the best method of collection is via the Utilities monthly bills, (DEWA).
A recent inclusion in the monthly bill was a statement, that the tax would be collected by DEWA, following the disclosure of your rent (5%) of a calculated figure if you own the property.
If there is no disclosure then DM will guestimate a figure based on your consumption of electricity, and water.
This sum will be collected with 100% compliance from 1st January 2011.
But as is so typical in UAE, I have no idea if this will actually happen.
As mentioned I also suspect that a UAE National will be exempt, they already have a reduced utilities bill.
As an aside, there is no extra charge for not collecting the sewage that flows out of the drains, this is totally FOC. In Al Barsha this week, overflowing drainds, leaving the area close to Mall of the Emitates smelling rather rank. Whne the rains come, its best to relocate. (or buy wellies).
glf