In a decisive move to uphold labour standards and protect employer rights, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has penalised 30 Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices across the UAE for committing a total of 89 legal violations during the first quarter of 2025.
This enforcement is part of MoHRE’s wider initiative to ensure transparency, accountability, and legal compliance in the domestic worker recruitment sector. The Ministry has been deploying a robust combination of field inspections and a sophisticated digital monitoring system designed to swiftly detect violations and respond to complaints raised by employers and families.
Key Violations Identified
According to an official MoHRE statement, the most common offences involved:
- Failure to refund recruitment fees within the legally mandated two-week period. This timeframe begins either from the date the domestic worker is returned to the recruitment office or from the date the worker discontinues work.
- Lack of transparency in service pricing, specifically not displaying MoHRE-approved service package rates clearly and visibly to customers.
These violations not only breach labour regulations but also undermine public trust in recruitment services, prompting the Ministry to act firmly against non-compliant offices.
MoHRE’s Warning to Offenders
MoHRE has made it clear that it will not tolerate repeated violations, warning that persistent non-compliance could lead to severe penalties, including revocation of business licenses. The Ministry reiterated its zero-tolerance stance and assured the public that any verified misconduct would be dealt with through strict legal measures.
Praise for Compliant Agencies
While taking action against violators, MoHRE also acknowledged the positive role played by compliant recruitment offices. Out of all offices operating in the UAE, 126 are currently licensed and fully compliant with UAE regulations. These agencies are credited with maintaining high standards of service, transparency, and customer satisfaction—factors that contribute to their growth and competitiveness in the market.
Advice to Employers: Work Only with Licensed Agencies
To avoid potential issues and ensure legal protection, MoHRE strongly advises all employers and families to only engage with licensed recruitment offices. Doing so guarantees access to legitimate services and recourse in case of disputes.
A full, updated list of licensed domestic worker recruitment offices is available on the official MoHRE website: www.mohre.gov.ae.
Report Violations: Help Maintain Standards
MoHRE also urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious or unethical practices. This includes cases where:
- Recruitment fees are not refunded within the legal timeframe.
- Service prices are not displayed clearly.
- Any other breach of agreed services or legal obligations occurs.
Reports can be submitted via MoHRE’s official digital channels, or through the Labour Claims and Advisory Centre by dialling 80084. Every report helps MoHRE in its mission to maintain fair and just employment practices across the UAE.
A Transparent Future for Recruitment Services
In conclusion, the Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining a transparent, responsive, and accountable recruitment system. Through continuous inspection, prompt resolution of complaints, and the use of cutting-edge monitoring tools, MoHRE is ensuring that the domestic worker recruitment industry operates within the bounds of UAE law—and that employers receive the quality service they deserve.
Stay informed. Stay protected. Always verify before you engage.
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