Complete Guide to Domestic Workers Law in UAE (2025 Update)
The UAE Domestic Workers Law is a cornerstone within the country’s labor system, protecting employers and domestic workers under an established legal umbrella. Enacted to make domestic labor lawful, the law regulates working conditions, contracts, wages and dispute settlement.
Passed under Federal Law No. 10 of 2017 and subsequently amended by Cabinet Resolution No. 106 of 2022, this law covers a large number of workers in domestic roles from maids and cooks to gardeners, nannies, drivers and private nurses. Its aim is to find a balance between fair treatment and national standards of work and social justice.
Legal Rights of Domestic Workers in the UAE
Domestic workers in the UAE are entitled to basic legal protections like reasonable compensation, weekly holidays, annual paid leave and written contracts. These protections promote dignity, security and treatment with respect as per national labor standards.
Right to Employment Contracts
All domestic workers are entitled to written labour contracts, signed and stamped by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The contracts must clearly mention job titles, wages, leave entitlements, and working hours. It is essential to be aware of your rights under a valid Labour Contract in UAE as it is the statutory basis of employment relations and protects both parties in the event of a dispute.
Wages and Timely Payment
The employers must pay the domestic workers on time every month without making any unauthorized deductions. The UAE insists on payment in UAE dirhams, either directly or through authorized bank transfers for the sake of transparency.
Weekly Rest and Annual Leave
Laborers are given one day of rest with pay every week and 30 days of paid annual leave after a year’s service. The law also entitles 12 hours of rest every day, out of which 8 hours should be continuous.
Employer Obligations Under UAE Domestic Labor Law
Domestic workers must be accorded respect and dignity by employers without any proof of abuse, harassment or exploitation through forced labor. They must be provided with proper health insurance, fully paid by employers, including basic medical needs as well as emergency care. The employers are also bound by law to provide decent accommodation, wholesome food and appropriate clothing suitable for the work all of which shall not be deducted from the workers’ wages. Regarding overtime work, the employers must strictly follow the UAE overtime payment laws and they must pay just compensation for extra hours above the agreed working time.
Wages, Working Time and Overtime Compensation
UAE domestic workers have the right to full and on-time payment of wages as contracted, with no unauthorized deductions. The workday of domestic workers must not be more than 12 hours and be compensated with additional pay or time off for overtime.
- Minimum Wage Obligations: Although there isn’t a national minimum wage, salaries for domestic workers should be fair and mutually agreed. Minimum pay advice is sometimes provided by certain embassies by nationality.
- Legal Working Time: The legal working day is no longer than 12 hours, including resting time. Any extra hours need to be compensated justly.
- Overtime Compensation: The payment of overtime can either be in the form of extra wages or time off in lieu, depending on the agreed understanding in the contract.
Leave and Time Off Entitlements
Domestic workers in the UAE receive 30 days of paid annual leave, plus one paid weekly rest day after one year of service. They are also entitled to sick leave and compassionate leave under certain conditions.
Sick Leave
Workers are eligible for up to 30 days of sick leave per year, of which the first 15 days are fully paid salary and the remaining 15 days are half salary. Find out more about Sick leave laws in UAE.
Annual Leave
On satisfactory completion of 12 months of service, workers are provided with 30 days of paid annual leave. Return airfare charges may also be provided.
Emergency and Compassionate Leave
Although not obligatory under law, some UAE employers offer emergency or compassionate leave for urgent family problems such as illness or death of a loved one. The leave is usually granted at the discretion of the employer and reflects a considerate and respectful workplace.
Recruitment Agency Policy
Only recruitment agencies licensed and approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) have the authority to employ domestic workers in the UAE. They play a significant role in educating workers comprehensively regarding their rights according to law and safeguarding them from exploitation and human trafficking. UAE law also prohibits very heavily the payment of recruitment and placement fees by domestic workers to agencies. Any agency found to be engaged in such illegal practices will face serious repercussions under the country’s labor laws.
Common Misconceptions About Domestic Workers Law
There are several common myths surrounding the Domestic Workers Law in the UAE that have a tendency to confuse employers and workers. One such myth is that domestic workers cannot change employers; the fact, however, is that they can legally do so by completing their contract or on special legal bases, i.e., breach of contract or abuse. Among the misconceptions is that verbal agreements between employers and employees are sufficient, whereas only written contracts registered and approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation are recognized and enforceable under UAE law.
Conclusion
The UAE Domestic Workers Law is a progressive protective law that encourages equity, dignity, and safety for domestic workers across the Emirates. With clear contracts, regular inspections and strong penalties for abuse, the UAE is setting a regional benchmark for domestic labor reform.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are domestic workers entitled to end-of-service benefits?
Yes, based on 14 days’ wages per year of service.
2. Can a domestic worker work for more than one family?
No, they are tied to one employer under a formal contract.
3. Do domestic workers get public holidays off?
Yes, public holidays are either given as leave or compensated.
