Understanding Legal Requirements in UAE

General guidance on sponsorship, work permits, and regulations in United Arab Emirates

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September 15, 2025
3 min read

Understanding Legal Requirements in UAE

Understanding the legal framework for hiring domestic workers in the UAE ensures compliance and protects both employers and workers.

Visa and Sponsorship System

Types of Domestic Worker Visas

  • Domestic Worker Visa (Mission Visa): For household employees
  • Sponsorship Transfer: For workers changing employers within UAE
  • New Employment Visa: For workers coming from abroad

Sponsor Requirements

To sponsor a domestic worker, you need:

  • Minimum monthly salary of AED 25,000 (or AED 20,000 with accommodation)
  • Valid Emirates ID
  • Tenancy contract or property ownership
  • Security deposit (AED 5,000)

Required Documentation

Sponsor Documents

  1. Emirates ID and passport copy
  2. Salary certificate
  3. Tenancy contract (Ejari)
  4. Bank statements (3-6 months)
  5. Family book (if applicable)

Worker Documents

  1. Valid passport
  2. Medical fitness certificate
  3. Emirates ID application
  4. Entry permit
  5. Visa stamping

Employment Contract and Terms

Mandatory Contract Elements

  • Job description and duties
  • Monthly salary
  • Working hours
  • Rest days
  • Annual leave
  • Medical insurance
  • End of service benefits

Standard Working Conditions

  • Maximum 12 hours per day
  • One day off per week
  • 30 days annual leave
  • Return ticket every 2 years

Financial Obligations

Salary Requirements

  • Minimum wage as per nationality brackets
  • Monthly salary payment via WPS
  • Overtime compensation
  • Gratuity calculation

Additional Costs

  • Medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Visa fees and renewals
  • Emirates ID fees
  • Medical test fees
  • Typing center charges

Legal Rights and Protections

Worker Rights

  • Retention of personal documents
  • Communication freedom
  • Safe working environment
  • Access to complaint mechanisms
  • Legal recourse through MOHRE

Employer Responsibilities

  • Timely salary payment
  • Adequate accommodation
  • Medical care provision
  • Respectful treatment
  • Contract compliance

Tadbeer Centers

Services Provided

  • Recruitment assistance
  • Visa processing
  • Training programs
  • Contract preparation
  • Dispute resolution

Benefits of Using Tadbeer

  • Legal compliance guaranteed
  • Streamlined processes
  • Professional support
  • Replacement guarantees
  • Training certification

Important Regulations

Prohibited Actions

  • Passport confiscation
  • Illegal employment
  • Salary deductions beyond legal limits
  • Restriction of movement
  • Any form of abuse

Termination Procedures

  • Notice period requirements
  • Final settlement
  • Cancellation of visa
  • Return ticket provision
  • Gratuity payment

Support Resources

Government Services

  • MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources)
  • Tawteen portal
  • GDRFA for visa services
  • Labor complaint hotline: 600590000

Digital Platforms

  • MOHRE app
  • Tasheel services
  • Smart immigration apps
  • Online complaint systems

Note: This guide provides general information. Regulations may change, and specific situations may require professional legal consultation. Always verify current requirements with official sources.

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