UAE: MoHRE sanctions violating domestic worker recruitment agencies

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has identified numerous violations committed by domestic worker recruitment agencies during the first half of 2025.

Among the most significant infractions was the failure of some agencies to refund all or part of the recruitment fees to employers within the legally mandated period — two weeks from the date the domestic worker is returned to the agency or from the date of the worker’s absence from duty.

The ministry also recorded violations involving non-compliance with regulations, circulars, ministerial decisions, commitments, and operational guidelines specific to licensed recruitment agencies.

Through its official website, the ministry reiterated its firm stance against non-compliant agencies, stressing that strict legal action will be taken against any agency found guilty of violations. Penalties may include license revocation in cases that warrant closure.

The ministry affirmed that employers have the right to file a complaint if a licensed recruitment agency fails to refund recruitment fees within 14 days from the return of the domestic worker or their unauthorized absence. Complaints can be submitted by calling the Labour Advisory Call Center at 80084, where a specialized team will review and attempt to amicably resolve the matter. If a settlement cannot be reached in claims not exceeding Dh50,000, a formal ruling will be issued.

MoHRE also emphasized that legal and administrative action will be taken against agencies that violate the Domestic Workers Law or related regulatory decisions.

The ministry urged employers to communicate directly via its official digital platforms or the 80084 hotline in the event of any violations, particularly when an agency fails to refund recruitment fees in a timely manner. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to listening to employer concerns and handling complaints with seriousness, transparency, and strict enforcement.

The ministry highlighted the pivotal role of licensed agencies in offering reliable and high-quality services tailored to the needs of employers. These services include packages that ensure the recruitment of trained, qualified domestic workers in full compliance with regulatory obligations.

It also advised Emirati and resident families to avoid dealing with unlicensed recruitment offices or unverified social media accounts promoting domestic worker services, due to the significant legal, health, and safety risks such arrangements pose to households.

The ministry has recently issued an updated list of accredited domestic worker recruitment centers, which now includes 128 centers across the UAE: 41 each in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, five in Sharjah city, one in Kalba, two in Khorfakkan, 19 in Ajman, 13 in Ras Al Khaimah, four in Fujairah city, one in Dibba, and one in Masafi.