UAE Introduces Heavy Fine and Jail for Hiring Domestic Workers Without Permit

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has warned private sector entities and employers about hiring individuals without valid work permits. This applies even to trial periods in businesses or to domestic workers.

According to MOHRE’s latest update in Human Resources Magazine on its official website, any individual holding a work permit from MOHRE is entitled to full protection under labor laws. Hiring individuals without such permits is a direct violation of UAE Labour Relations Law.

MOHRE conducts regular joint inspections with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) to identify and address illegal employment practices nationwide. Employers found hiring undocumented workers face immediate administrative penalties, including the suspension of their labor files and restrictions on new domestic worker permits. Legal and financial penalties may also follow, including referral to the Public Prosecution.

These measures align with Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 on Domestic Workers, which strictly prohibits the employment of domestic workers without valid permits or allowing them to work for others illegally. Violations can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh200,000 to Dh1 million.

MOHRE emphasized the importance of engaging only licensed recruitment agencies, verified through official channels, to ensure compliance and quality service provision for both Emirati and expatriate households.

Furthermore, recent legislative updates have extended probation periods for domestic workers, introduced mandatory financial guarantees from recruitment agencies, and outlined clear refund policies for recruitment and employment fees under specific conditions. MOHRE continues to enforce these regulations to safeguard the rights of workers and uphold standards in the labor market.