The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) has issued a fresh warning to employers and families about the dangers of hiring domestic workers through unlicensed recruitment channels, particularly as such services increasingly surface on social media platforms.
MoHRE stressed that bypassing approved agencies poses serious risks not only to employers' legal standing but also to their households’ safety and wellbeing. Authorities have outlined five key dangers associated with using unverified domestic labour providers:
- Legal accountability – Employing a domestic worker without official sponsorship or documentation is a violation of UAE labour laws and can lead to penalties.
- Health hazards – Unlicensed workers often lack official medical clearance, potentially exposing families to infectious diseases.
- Security threats – Informal recruitment increases the risk of hiring individuals with criminal records or ties to illegal activities.
- Lack of training – Workers may not meet skill or behavioural standards due to inadequate vetting or training.
- No contractual protections – Without valid contracts, employers cannot legally hold workers accountable or seek recourse for breaches.
Why Licensed Agencies Are the Safer Choice
Approved recruitment agencies operate strictly under the UAE’s Domestic Workers Law. These agencies are:
- Regularly audited for compliance with labour regulations.
- Required to offer transparent, Ministry-approved pricing in line with source-country recruitment costs.
- Held accountable for worker conduct, training, and medical fitness.
In essence, licensed agencies ensure protection for both parties—offering employers peace of mind and safeguarding workers' rights.
Recruitment Packages Regulated by Mohre
Mohre-authorised recruitment agencies offer three structured packages to meet different employer needs:
1. Traditional Package
- The worker is under the employer’s sponsorship and lives in the household.
- Includes a two-year contract with a six-month probation period.
- Employers can request a replacement or refund during probation for:
- Resignation without cause
- Absconding
- Medical unfitness
- Inability to perform agreed duties
- Partial refunds apply post-probation based on contract duration remaining.
2. Temporary Package
- Worker is sponsored by the agency and does not reside with the employer.
- Services can be initiated within 24 hours.
- Ideal for short-term or live-out arrangements with a two-year contract.
3. Flexible Package
- Workers are provided on an hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
- Registered with the agency and not tied to employer sponsorship.
- Includes unlimited replacements and same-day service availability.
Wage Payment Reforms Enhance Transparency
The UAE has also implemented reforms to ensure wage protection for domestic workers. Select worker categories must now be paid via the Wages Protection System (WPS). This system is designed to:
- Ensure timely, documented salary payments.
- Provide digital transparency for both employers and workers.
- Reduce wage-related disputes.
- Support the stability of contractual agreements.
- Keep Mohre updated on wage transactions to prevent violations.
The ministry strongly urges residents to rely only on licensed recruitment firms to hire domestic workers. Doing so not only aligns with national regulations but also upholds the safety, security, and rights of all parties involved.
News Source: Khaleej Times
