UAE Shuts Down 77 Sites For Illegal Domestic Worker Recruitment
UAE Shuts Down 77 Sites For Illegal Domestic Worker Recruitment. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has taken decisive legal action to safeguard the rights of employers and domestic workers in the UAE by shutting down 77 illegal recruitment accounts during the first half of 2025. In collaboration with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), MoHRE confirmed that these accounts were operating on social media platforms without proper authorization or licenses.
This sweeping crackdown aligns with the UAE broader mission of enforcing labor laws and promoting legal employment practices, particularly regarding domestic worker recruitment services.
Why These Platforms Were Shut Down
According to MoHRE, the blocked 77 social media accounts were found to be engaging in unlicensed recruitment activities, violating the UAE’s Labour Relations Regulation Law. These accounts were neither affiliated with licensed recruitment agencies nor recognized by the Ministry. As a result, MoHRE took action to protect both the labor market and families relying on legitimate domestic services.
Key Reasons for Closure
- Absence of MoHRE-issued recruitment licenses
- Promotion of unauthorized domestic worker employment
- Lack of legal accountability and safeguards for clients
MoHRE Public Advisory
In a public statement, MoHRE strongly urged UAE nationals and residents to verify the legitimacy of any recruitment agency before entering into contracts. Engaging with unauthorized platforms can expose individuals to legal risks and deny them their rights, such as recourse for breach of contract or worker exploitation.
Official Verification Channels:
| Verification Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Call Center | Dial 600590000 |
| Official Website | Visit www.mohre.gov.ae |
| Smart Application | Available on app stores |
Employers are advised to use only MoHRE-approved recruitment agencies listed on the Ministry’s website. These agencies comply with legal standards and offer protections not available through unlicensed service providers.
Surge in Illegal Recruitment Entities in Early 2025
Earlier this year, 55 illegal recruitment entities were discovered operating across various platforms. This included physical offices, unauthorized websites, and five active social media accounts. These entities had been engaged in unregulated job placement, labor importation, and domestic worker recruitment without obtaining the necessary permits.
Penalties Imposed:
- Financial fines
- Suspension of operations
- Referral to Public Prosecution
- Permanent bans from operating in the labor sector
MoHRE, in partnership with TDRA, emphasized that it will continue to enforce these regulations and block all unlicensed entities to maintain a stable and secure labor market.
UAE Law: Recruitment Without License is a Crime
The UAE Labour Relations Regulation Law explicitly prohibits any individual or organization from engaging in the recruitment or temporary employment of domestic workers without a MoHRE license.
Legal Penalties Include
| Offense | Penalty |
| Unlicensed recruitment or mediation | Minimum 1 year imprisonment + fine of AED 200,000 to AED 1,000,000 |
These harsh penalties serve as a deterrent to potential violators and uphold the integrity of the recruitment ecosystem.
MoHRE Monitoring
According to Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary for Human Resources Affairs at MoHRE, the Ministry uses a comprehensive monitoring system that actively scans both physical and digital platforms. Their inspection teams are tasked with identifying and cross-verifying recruitment advertisements with official records to detect any inconsistencies.
Monitoring Highlights:
- Proactive surveillance of social media campaigns
- Internal cross-verification with MoHRE licensing data
- Real-time reporting and tracking
Al Khoori confirmed that violators will face legal actions, including public prosecution and permanent bans.
Public Role: Reporting and Awareness
MoHRE also appealed to the public to play an active role in maintaining a safe labor environment. Users are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or unlicensed agencies via:
- Call Center: 600590000
- MoHRE Smart App
- Website: www.mohre.gov.ae
By doing so, residents not only safeguard their own interests but also contribute to enhancing public safety and legal compliance across the UAE.
TDRA Role in National Security and Digital Regulation
Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director General of the TDRA, reiterated the Authority’s commitment to enabling secure digital transformation in line with the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
“We support national missions that ensure legal compliance and economic prosperity,” said Al Mesmar. “Our digital governance model ensures rapid responses to illegal activities reported by government bodies such as MoHRE.”
TDRA continues to strengthen its monitoring mechanisms to assist in removing unlawful digital content, thereby ensuring a secure and regulated online space for recruitment and other services.
The Bigger Picture: Protecting Families and Workers
The crackdown on illegal recruitment services isn’t just about following regulations; it’s about protecting the rights of domestic workers, ensuring safe employment conditions, and safeguarding families from potential fraud or exploitation.
Choosing licensed domestic worker agencies ensures that:
- Contracts are legally binding
- Workers are screened and qualified
- Both parties are protected under UAE labor laws
Unlicensed operators offer none of these safeguards and may engage in fraudulent or exploitative practices.
FAQs About UAE Shuts Down 77 Sites For Illegal Domestic Worker Recruitment
How can I verify if a recruitment agency is licensed in the UAE?
Ans: You can verify through MoHRE’s call center at 600590000, visit their official website (www.mohre.gov.ae), or use their mobile application for instant checks.
What are the risks of hiring a domestic worker through unlicensed platforms?
Ans: Dealing with unlicensed agencies can lead to legal penalties, lack of legal recourse, risk of worker exploitation, and financial fraud.
What actions can I take if I find an illegal recruitment service?
Ans: Report it immediately to MoHRE via their call center, mobile app, or website. They will investigate and take appropriate legal action.
Conclusion
The UAE continues to uphold the highest standards in employment regulation. With MoHRE and TDRA working hand-in-hand, the nation is setting a strong example for lawful recruitment and worker protection. Residents and businesses must remain vigilant and always choose legal, licensed agencies for any domestic worker need.
