UAE warns against unlicensed domestic worker agencies

Abu Dhabi: Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has warned residents against dealing with unlicensed domestic worker recruitment offices and unauthorised intermediaries, saying such practices could expose employers to legal and financial risks.

In a social media post, the ministry urged employers to work only with licensed and approved domestic worker recruitment offices operating in the UAE, stressing that official agencies are listed on the ministry’s website.

Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.

The ministry said dealing with unapproved recruitment offices or unlicensed intermediaries could result in complications, including legal liability for contracting with unauthorised entities, the absence of guarantees for fee reimbursement in the event of a breach of agreement, and undocumented contracts that may weaken the rights of both employers and domestic workers.

To avoid legal and financial risks associated with dealing with unlicensed domestic worker recruitment offices, make sure to deal exclusively with licensed and approved offices in the country, and avoid any unlicensed intermediaries.

You can view the list of approved recruitment… pic.twitter.com/9Fz2N1rZux

— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) May 8, 2026

Authorities also warned that such arrangements could create difficulties in resolving disputes and may involve failures to comply with mandatory medical checks and other regulatory requirements.

The ministry further clarified that mediating between an employer and a domestic worker recruitment office is considered illegal under UAE regulations. 

It said recruitment procedures must be conducted directly between employers and licensed recruitment offices to ensure clear responsibilities and protect the rights of all parties involved.