How the UAE is protecting employers from non-compliant domestic worker recruitment agencies

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has taken decisive action against several domestic worker recruitment agencies found to be in breach of regulations during the first half of 2025.Among the most significant violations recorded was the failure of some agencies to refund recruitment fees, either partially or fully, to employers within the legally mandated timeframe. The law requires that if a domestic worker is either returned to the agency or fails to report for work, the recruitment agency must refund the applicable fees within 14 days. MoHRE also documented multiple other infractions, including:

Zero-Tolerance Policy and Legal Recourse for Employers

Through its official website, the ministry reiterated its firm zero-tolerance stance toward any form of non-compliance.

It emphasized that strict legal measures, including license revocation, will be enforced in cases deemed severe enough to warrant closure of the agency. MoHRE also reaffirmed the rights of employers, stating“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.” Employers can submit complaints by contacting the Labour Advisory Call Center at 80084.

Once submitted, a specialized team will review the case and attempt to reach an amicable settlement. If a resolution cannot be reached and the claim is under Dh50,000, the ministry will issue a formal legal ruling. In addition to monetary concerns, MoHRE warned that further legal and administrative action will be taken against agencies violating any aspect of the Domestic Workers Law or related regulatory decisions.

Ministry Urges Direct Communication and Cautions Against Unlicensed Operators

To help streamline conflict resolution and enhance transparency, MoHRE encouraged the public to communicate directly with the ministry via its digital platforms or by calling the 80084 hotline. It assured residents and employers of its commitment to:

Furthermore, the ministry stressed the vital role of licensed recruitment agencies, stating that they are critical in providing employers with:

MoHRE also issued a public advisory, urging Emirati and resident families to avoid engaging with unlicensed recruitment offices or unverified social media platforms advertising domestic worker services.

It highlighted the legal, health, and safety risks posed by such informal arrangements.

128 Accredited Recruitment Centers Now Operational Across UAE

To guide the public toward safe and legal recruitment channels, the ministry released an updated list of licensed domestic worker recruitment centers, which now totals 128 centers across the UAE:

This extensive network aims to ensure that all residents have access to legally compliant, trustworthy, and professional services, reinforcing the ministry’s broader effort to maintain accountability and improve standards within the domestic labor sector.