UAE – MOHRE Sanctions Violating Domestic Worker Recruitment Agencies
UAE – MOHRE Sanctions Violating Domestic Worker Recruitment Agencies. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in the United Arab Emirates has taken decisive measures against domestic worker recruitment agencies that failed to comply with UAE labor laws and regulations. During the first half of 2025, multiple violations were identified, sparking concern among employers and intensifying the ministry’s efforts to protect household rights and enhance the domestic worker recruitment system.
Zero Tolerance for Violations
MoHRE has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward UAE recruitment agency violations, especially those involving non-compliance with the Domestic Workers Law. Agencies found guilty of breaching operational guidelines or failing to refund recruitment fees within 14 days of a worker’s return or absence are now facing serious legal and administrative consequences, including the revocation of operating licenses.
This strong regulatory enforcement demonstrates the UAE government’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness within the domestic worker recruitment sector.
Common Violations Committed by Agencies
According to MoHRE, the most frequently reported infractions during the first half of 2025 include:
| Violation Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Delayed Refunds | Agencies failed to return full or partial recruitment fees within the legal 14-day window. |
| Non-compliance with Ministerial Guidelines | Disregarding circulars, MoHRE decisions, and operational requirements. |
| Unlicensed Operations | Running without a valid MoHRE-issued license. |
| Failure to Deliver Promised Services | Sending workers without proper training or experience, contrary to agreed packages. |
These issues have prompted MoHRE to enhance oversight and encourage employers to report any misconduct using official complaint channels.
Employer Rights and Complaint Procedures
MoHRE has clarified that all employers whether Emiratis or residents have the legal right to receive a refund if a domestic worker leaves or is returned within a short period. If the recruitment agency fails to fulfill this obligation within 14 days, the employer can escalate the issue.
To file a complaint, employers can:
- Call the Labour Advisory Call Center at 80084.
- Use MoHRE’s official digital platforms.
- Visit a MoHRE Customer Happiness Center.
A dedicated team will investigate the issue, aiming for amicable resolution. If a mutual agreement cannot be reached and the claim is below AED 50,000, a formal legal ruling will be issued.
MOHRE Urges Direct Communication
The ministry encourages all employers to report violations through official channels rather than resorting to third-party complaints or social media. Direct engagement ensures that complaints are properly documented and addressed in accordance with MoHRE’s Domestic Worker Law.
MoHRE also confirmed that serious legal action will be taken against recruitment agencies that refuse to comply with complaint procedures or fail to maintain the required service standards.
Warning Against Unlicensed Recruitment Services
MoHRE has issued a stern warning to families in the UAE about the dangers of using unlicensed recruitment offices or social media advertisements promoting domestic worker services. These services pose high legal, safety, and health risks, and users may face penalties if found engaging with unauthorized providers.
To avoid scams and legal trouble, the ministry recommends only using licensed and accredited recruitment centers that offer packages aligned with government standards.
List of MOHRE-Accredited Domestic Worker Recruitment Centers (2025)
To support safer recruitment practices, MoHRE has published an updated list of authorized domestic worker centers. There are currently 128 approved agencies across the UAE:
| Emirate | Number of Licensed Centers |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | 41 |
| Dubai | 41 |
| Ajman | 19 |
| Ras Al Khaimah | 13 |
| Sharjah City | 5 |
| Fujairah City | 4 |
| Khorfakkan | 2 |
| Kalba | 1 |
| Dibba | 1 |
| Masafi | 1 |
This extensive network is designed to provide easy access to legal, professional, and ethical domestic worker recruitment services across all emirates.
The Role of Licensed Agencies
MOHRE Domestic Worker Agencies play a critical role in:
- Supplying qualified and trained domestic staff.
- Offering guarantee packages, including return and replacement policies.
- Ensuring compliance with UAE labor laws and Emiratisation directives.
- Enhancing trust and transparency in the hiring process.
Agencies that meet these standards help maintain a stable and respectful employer-domestic worker relationship, which is vital for both households and the overall labor market.
MoHRE Continued Commitment
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation remains dedicated to protecting the rights of both employers and domestic workers. Through its policies, inspections, and digital reporting channels, the ministry is actively working to eliminate malpractice and raise standards in the recruitment sector.
MoHRE has also pledged to launch new awareness campaigns to educate the public about:
- Employer rights and obligations.
- Legal protections for domestic workers.
- How to identify and report recruitment fraud.
- The risks of engaging unlicensed providers.
This proactive approach is essential for building a fair, safe, and efficient domestic labor environment in the UAE.
FAQs About MOHRE Sanctions Violating Domestic Worker Recruitment Agencies
How can I report a recruitment agency that failed to refund my fees?
Ans: You can contact the MoHRE Labour Advisory Call Center at 80084, file a complaint via the MoHRE website or mobile app, or visit a nearby Customer Happiness Center. Ensure you provide supporting documents like contracts, receipts, and timelines for quicker resolution.
What happens if the agency refuses to settle my refund claim?
Ans: If a settlement cannot be reached and the claim amount is under AED 50,000, MoHRE will issue a formal legal ruling. In serious cases, the agency may face penalties, including license suspension or permanent closure.
Is it legal to hire a domestic worker through a social media ad?
Ans: No, hiring domestic workers via unlicensed or social media platforms is illegal in the UAE. This puts you at risk of legal action, financial loss, and safety concerns. Always use MOHRE-approved recruitment agencies.
Conclusion
The UAE government, through MoHRE, continues to uphold high standards in the domestic worker recruitment sector. By enforcing strict penalties on violating agencies, publishing lists of approved recruitment centers, and offering transparent complaint mechanisms, the ministry protects both employers and domestic workers alike.
