How to Hire Full-Time Maids in Dubai?

Living in Dubai comes with many advantages, but juggling a demanding career, active social life, and household responsibilities can be overwhelming. For many families and individuals, hiring a full-time maid becomes a practical solution to maintain a clean, organized, and smoothly run home. But navigating the process in the UAE, especially with strict labor laws and visa regulations, can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the system.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to hire a full-time maid in Dubai, the legal pathways, associated costs, and best practices to ensure a safe and effective hire.

Understanding the Basics: Who Is Considered a Full-Time Maid?

A full-time maid in Dubai typically works exclusively for one household, living in the employer’s residence or commuting daily (in rare cases). Their duties may include cleaning, cooking, babysitting, laundry, and other household tasks as agreed upon.

Under UAE law, a full-time maid must be sponsored under a domestic worker visa—either directly by the employer or through a licensed agency.

Two Legal Options for Hiring Full-Time Maids in Dubai

1. Direct Sponsorship

This is the traditional and often more cost-effective method. The employer sponsors the maid directly, handles the paperwork, and assumes legal responsibility.

Who can sponsor?

• Only families (not bachelors) can sponsor a full-time maid.

• A minimum monthly income (usually around AED 25,000 or more) is required.

Eligible countries for hiring domestic workers:

• Philippines

• India

• Sri Lanka

• Bangladesh

• Indonesia

• Ethiopia

• Kenya

• Nepal

The UAE maintains bilateral agreements with these countries to regulate the hiring process and protect workers’ rights.

2. Hiring Through a Licensed Agency (Tadbeer Centers)

Tadbeer is the UAE government’s system for hiring domestic workers through certified agencies. They offer more flexibility and less paperwork for the employer, though it comes at a higher cost.

Types of Tadbeer contracts:

• Direct Hire: You select a worker and sponsor her under your name.

• Agency-sponsored: The maid is legally employed by the agency but works full-time in your home.

• On-demand/Part-time: Hourly or daily workers without sponsorship obligations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring a Full-Time Maid (Direct Sponsorship)

Step 1: Choose the Source Country

Each country has its own set of rules, salary expectations, and minimum contract conditions. For example, hiring a Filipina maid involves different documentation than hiring a Sri Lankan or Ethiopian maid.

Step 2: Find a Reliable Recruitment Agency

Although you can hire someone directly, many families work with licensed recruitment agencies to handle sourcing, screening, interviews, and initial processing.

Make sure the agency is approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Step 3: Interview and Select a Candidate

When selecting a candidate:

• Verify experience and references.

• Clearly communicate job expectations, working hours, and duties.

• Ensure mutual understanding of language and cultural compatibility.

Step 4: Prepare Legal Documents

You’ll need:

• Valid Emirates ID

• Passport copy

• Residence visa copy

• Proof of income (salary certificate or bank statement)

• Ejari tenancy contract (must show a minimum of 2 bedrooms)

Step 5: Apply for a Domestic Worker Visa

You can apply through:

• Typing centers

• Amer centers (Dubai only)

• Online via GDRFA or MOHRE portals

Documents required:

• Maid’s passport copy

• Passport-size photo

• Entry permit (if maid is outside UAE)

• Signed employment contract

Step 6: Medical and Emirates ID

Once the maid enters Dubai, she must undergo:

• Medical fitness test

• Emirates ID registration

• Biometric scan

• Health insurance coverage (mandatory)

Step 7: Visa Stamping and Finalization

Once all documents are submitted and cleared, the visa will be stamped on the maid’s passport, finalizing her sponsorship.

Hiring Through Tadbeer: A Simpler but Pricier Alternative

Pros:

• No legal liability on the employer

• Hassle-free documentation

• Faster process

• Temporary replacement options

Cons:

• Higher monthly cost (AED 3,500–6,000 depending on nationality and experience)

• Less control over contract customization

Steps to hire via Tadbeer:

1. Visit a certified Tadbeer center.

2. Select your preferred nationality and experience level.

3. Choose between live-in or live-out service.

4. Sign a contract with the agency.

5. Pay setup and monthly fees.

You can also transition a Tadbeer maid to private sponsorship after a probation period, depending on the agency terms.

Costs Involved in Hiring a Full-Time Maid in Dubai

Rights and Responsibilities: Key Legal Requirements

• Contract: A formal employment contract, in Arabic and English, must be signed.

• Working hours: No more than 12 hours per day with adequate rest.

• Weekly day off: Mandatory one day off per week.

• Annual leave: 30 days paid vacation each year.

• Gratuity: End-of-service benefits after 1 year of service.

• Healthcare: Must be provided by the employer.

• No withholding of passport: It’s illegal to retain the maid’s passport.

Violations can result in legal penalties, including fines or suspension of sponsorship privileges.

Tips for a Successful Working Relationship

1. Set Clear Expectations Early: Duties, timing, and household rules should be discussed on day one.

2. Maintain Respect and Boundaries: Treat your maid with kindness and professionalism.

3. Provide Adequate Living Conditions: Private room, sufficient food, and access to hygiene facilities.

4. Respect Legal Rights: Ensure your maid receives days off, medical care, and paid leave.

5. Communicate Openly: Encourage regular check-ins to address any issues or concerns.

Red Flags and What to Avoid

• Hiring without a proper visa or through illegal “freelance” maids.

• Agencies or individuals promising unrealistically low salaries.

• Withholding passports or salaries.

• Ignoring cultural sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a full-time maid in Dubai can dramatically improve your quality of life by reducing household stress and allowing more time for your family or career. However, it’s a significant legal and financial commitment. Whether you choose direct sponsorship or go through a Tadbeer agency, ensure you’re following UAE regulations and treating your employee ethically and fairly.

Always do thorough research, compare agency offerings, and stay up-to-date with labor laws to make the best choice for your home and lifestyle.