UAE Ministry of Human Resources Takes Action Against 40 Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices in H1 2025
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced disciplinary and financial measures against 40 domestic worker recruitment offices across the UAE during the first half of 2025. This action follows the detection of approximately 140 violations of the UAE’s Labour Law for domestic workers and its corresponding executive regulations.
The ministry made it clear that it will not tolerate non-compliance, and warned that repeated violations could lead to tougher penalties, including the revocation of operating licences.
Violations: Refund Failures, Hidden Fees, and Transparency Issues
According to MoHRE, most of the infractions were tied to failure to refund recruitment fees—either in full or in part—within the legally mandated two-week period. UAE law requires a refund when:
- A domestic worker is returned to the recruitment office, or
- A worker stops working for the employer under valid circumstances.
Other common violations included:
- Failure to display ministry-approved service package prices to customers
- Non-transparent service agreements
- Delays in handling complaints and disputes
Continuous Monitoring with Digital & On-the-Ground Inspections
The ministry stated that monitoring is ongoing, supported by advanced digital systems and field inspections. These tools allow authorities to track, record, and enforce compliance with current labour regulations.
“We are conducting round-the-clock inspections and responding swiftly to complaints from families and employers,” said MoHRE in a public statement shared via X (formerly Twitter).
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to:
- Regulate and standardise the domestic labour market
- Enhance the performance of recruitment offices
- Ensure fairness for both employers and domestic workers
Public Urged to Stay Informed and Report Violations
MoHRE encouraged employers and residents to:
- Use only licensed recruitment offices
- Avoid engaging with unregistered agents
- Report misconduct or fraudulent behaviour through:
- The MoHRE app
- www.mohre.gov.ae
- Labour Claims & Advisory Call Centre at 80084
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, swift resolution, and legal enforcement, while highlighting that complaints from families and employers are taken seriously and handled through a dedicated resolution process.
Ministry Commends Compliant Agencies
While highlighting violations, MoHRE also praised the majority of domestic worker recruitment offices in the UAE that:
- Operate within legal boundaries
- Offer competitive pricing
- Deliver professional services
- Ensure the well-being of both clients and domestic workers
Such agencies are considered vital to the sustainable growth and global reputation of the UAE’s domestic worker services sector.
“These compliant offices set a benchmark in providing fair, effective, and trustworthy services,” the ministry added.
Legal Framework Protecting Both Employers and Workers
The UAE Labour Law on Domestic Workers establishes clear guidelines to:
- Protect the rights of domestic workers
- Ensure safe and ethical employment practices
- Regulate recruitment fees and refund processes
- Penalise exploitation or abuse by agencies
The law applies to various categories of domestic workers, including:
- Housemaids
- Nannies
- Cooks
- Gardeners
- Drivers
- Private nurses
- Household managers
Strengthening the Recruitment Sector
The UAE government continues to implement policy reforms and monitoring mechanisms aimed at:
- Creating a transparent and competitive labour environment
- Increasing employer satisfaction
- Reducing labour disputes
- Supporting digital transformation in recruitment services
This includes initiatives like:
- Smart contract systems
- Digital complaint portals
- Standardised pricing models
Conclusion
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s recent crackdown on 40 non-compliant recruitment offices reflects its strong commitment to upholding labour standards, protecting both employers and domestic workers, and enhancing the credibility of the UAE’s domestic recruitment industry.
Through strict inspections, transparent regulations, and public engagement, the ministry is reinforcing a legal framework that aligns with international labour norms and supports the UAE’s broader vision of social stability and professional accountability.
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