The UAE has unveiled a simplified process for hiring domestic workers, making it faster and more efficient for families to recruit housemaids, drivers, nannies, and other household staff. This move is part of the government’s efforts to streamline labour procedures while ensuring fair employment practices.
In this blog post, we’ll explore:
- The key changes in the new hiring process
- Required documents and steps
- Benefits for employers and workers
- How this impacts the domestic labor market
UAE Simplifies Hiring Domestic Workers: New Rules
Key Changes in Hiring Domestic Workers in UAE
The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has introduced a more straightforward system for hiring domestic workers, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
1. Faster Approvals & Reduced Paperwork
- Employers no longer need multiple attestations for contracts.
- Digital applications via the MOHRE app or Tasheel service centres speed up processing.
2. Flexible Contracts
- Standardised contracts now allow customisable terms (salary, working hours, leave policies).
- Employers and workers can agree on conditions before arrival.
3. Direct Hiring from Approved Countries
- The UAE has agreements with key labour-exporting nations (the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, and Ethiopia) to ensure smooth recruitment.
4. Transparent Fee Structure
- Clear breakdown of recruitment costs, preventing exploitation by agencies.
Steps to Hire Domestic Workers in UAE
1. Choose a Licensed Recruitment Agency
Only MOHRE-approved agencies can process domestic worker visas.
2. Submit Required Documents
- Employer’s Emirates ID & passport copy
- Proof of residence (Ejari or utility bill)
- Salary offer and employment contract
3. Apply for Work Permit & Visa
- Submit the application via MOHRE’s online portal.
- Pay fees (around AED 2,000–5,000 depending on the worker’s nationality).
4. Medical Test & Emirates ID
- Workers must undergo medical screening.
- Apply for an Emirates ID and residency visa.
5. Finalize Contract & Orientation
- Both parties sign the employment agreement.
- Employers must brief workers on UAE laws and rights.
Benefits of the New System
For Employers:
- Faster processing (reduced from weeks to days)
- Lower risk of fraudulent recruitment
- Clearer cost structure
For Workers:
- Guaranteed fair wages and working conditions
- Legal protection under UAE labor laws
- Easier dispute resolution
Employer Responsibilities and Obligations
While hiring domestic workers in the UAE has become easier, employers still have legal obligations:
Respect the agreed wage and working hours.
Provide safe and humane working conditions.
Do not withhold passports or personal belongings.
Pay salaries on time through official channels (e.g., Wage Protection System).
Facilitate annual leave and return tickets after two years.
Ensure compliance with UAE labour laws.
Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, blacklisting, or criminal charges.
Impact on UAE’s Domestic Labor Market
The simplified process is expected to:
- Reduce illegal hiring by encouraging formal recruitment.
- Improve worker rights with standardised contracts.
- Boost employer confidence in hiring legally.
Future of Hiring Domestic Workers in the UAE
As the UAE continues to evolve, more digital innovations, such as AI-powered hiring platforms and biometric authentication for employment contracts, may soon be introduced. There’s also a push toward training and certification of domestic workers to professionalise the sector.
The UAE aims to become a model for ethical domestic labour employment in the region. By embracing technology and safeguarding worker rights, the country is setting a new benchmark for hiring domestic workers responsibly and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I hire a domestic worker without an agency?
No, only licensed agencies can process visas.
2. What is the average cost of hiring a domestic worker?
Costs range from AED 7,000 to AED 15,000, including visa, medical, and insurance.
3. How long does the new process take?
Approvals now take 5–10 days, down from several weeks.
Conclusion
The UAE’s new simplified process for hiring domestic workers makes it easier for families to recruit help while ensuring fair treatment. By reducing paperwork and speeding up approvals, the government aims to create a more transparent and efficient labour market.
If you’re planning to hire a domestic worker, ensure you follow the updated rules to avoid delays. Stay informed by checking MOHRE’s official website for the latest updates.