Avoid Hiring Risks in the UAE: Stay Licensed

Don't Risk It: Five Serious Dangers of Hiring Household Help from Unlicensed Agencies in the UAE

Labor authorities in the United Arab Emirates continuously warn the public to hire domestic helpers only through licensed agencies. Increasingly common ads on social media often lead to unchecked, unlicensed intermediaries, posing not only legal but also health and safety risks for families.

Why is a licensed agency important?

Officially approved agency intermediaries operate under the UAE Domestic Workers Law. These companies are under strict control and only mediate workers who meet health, moral, and professional expectations. Their pricing is also regulated by the ministry, ensuring transparent and fair conditions for employers.

The five main risks of unlicensed recruiters:

1. Legal consequences:

Hiring a domestic helper without official documentation and sponsorship is illegal. Irregular employment can lead not only to fines but also to criminal prosecution of the employer.

2. Health risks:

Unlicensed workers do not undergo mandatory health screenings, increasing the risk of carrying contagious diseases.

3. Security threat:

The background of informally hired workers is unknown. They may have a criminal past or engage in illegal activities, endangering the safety of family members.

4. Lack of expertise:

Helpers without adequate training and experience may not perform their duties properly or may make safety errors in the household.

5. Lack of contractual guarantees:

With unlicensed intermediaries, there is no official employment contract, so the helper can leave without explanation at any time, the quality of fulfillment is not guaranteed, and the employer cannot file an official complaint.

The three packages of licensed intermediaries:

Traditional package

The worker becomes a sponsor under the employer.

Two-year contract.

Six-month probation period during which a refund or replacement can be requested if:

the helper resigns without reason,

escapes,

is unfit or sick,

does not complete agreed tasks.

Temporary package

The worker is provided within 24 hours.

The agency remains the sponsor, the helper does not reside with the employer.

Two-year contract, not for permanent cohabitation.

Flexible package

Hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly employment.

The worker belongs to the agency, not the employer.

Replacement is provided within 24 hours.

Ideal for those who need help only periodically.

Wages and legal protection: Wages Protection System (WPS)

The UAE has introduced the WPS system, which offers the following benefits:

Electronic and documented wage payment.

Improves transparency and accountability.

Promotes stability of employment.

Reduces wage-related disputes.

Keeps MoHRE up to date.

Summary

Hiring domestic helpers is a matter of trust. Unlicensed agencies may offer short-term savings but could lead to severe long-term consequences. Licensed intermediaries not only comply with legal requirements but also guarantee safety, predictability, and quality services — protecting both families and workers.

(Source of the article is Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) announcement.)