Question: As an expat resident in Dubai, I’ve recently brought my elderly parents on a residence visa since there’s no one to care for them back home. I already sponsor one housemaid. Am I permitted to hire two additional maids, and what are the legal requirements to do so?
Answer: Yes, but it depends on several factors — and there’s no fixed number mentioned in UAE law.
An expat resident in Dubai who already sponsors one housemaid and has recently brought their elderly parents to live with them asked whether it's legally permissible to hire two more domestic workers to help manage the household.
According to the UAE's Federal Decree Law No. 9 of 2022 Concerning Domestic Workers, there is no specific limit set on the number of domestic workers an individual may sponsor. The law does not mention any maximum number, and the decision often comes down to an applicant’s personal circumstances and whether they meet the eligibility criteria set by authorities.
However, any domestic worker — regardless of how many are hired — must be employed through a proper work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This is clearly outlined in Article 4(1) of the law, which states that no domestic worker can be hired or temporarily employed without a licence from the Ministry.
Employers must also ensure a registered employment contract is in place. Articles 6 and 7 of the Domestic Workers Law mandate that a contract must be signed and registered with MoHRE.
Sponsoring a domestic worker comes with clear obligations: providing food, accommodation, clothing if needed for duties, timely salary payments, health insurance, and respecting the worker’s rights — including the right to retain personal documents. These responsibilities are laid out under Article 11 of the same law.
In addition, working hours must be kept within legal limits. A domestic worker cannot be made to work more than 12 hours a day, and must be given a break after eight continuous hours of work, as per Article 7 of Cabinet Resolution No. 106 of 2022. Article 8 also guarantees them a weekly day off.
While the law doesn’t impose a cap on the number of domestic workers one can hire, approvals are often granted based on the applicant’s financial capacity, household needs, and compliance with all legal requirements. Sponsoring more than one maid is possible, but each case is subject to review.
To proceed, residents are advised to either approach a licensed domestic worker recruitment agency or contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, or MoHRE directly for case-specific guidance.
News Source: Khaleej Times
