Domestic Workers’ Rights in UAE

Domestic workers, including drivers, nannies, housekeepers, cooks and gardeners are protected under UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 Concerning Domestic Workers.

Despite this clear legal framework, many workers remain unaware of their rights or are discouraged from enforcing them due to fear of visa cancellation, retaliation, or misinformation.

Unpaid salaries, denial of annual leave, arbitrary dismissal, passport confiscation, and cancellation of residency without settlement of dues are among the most common violations faced by domestic workers in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.

The law is clear: domestic workers are entitled to wages, rest days, annual leave, end-of-service benefits, and humane treatment. Where these rights are violated, the worker has the legal right to file a complaint and seek judicial redress.

This article outlines the complaint process and the legal remedies available.

I. Legal framework governing domestic workers

Domestic workers in the UAE are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, which specifically regulates employment relationships involving private household workers.

Under this law, domestic workers are entitled to:

• Timely payment of agreed wages ;

• Annual leave ;

• Weekly rest ;

• End-of-service gratuity (where applicable) ;

• Medical care ;

• Compensation for unlawful termination ;

• Protection from abuse or arbitrary cancellation.

  
  

Importantly, the employer’s death does not extinguish the worker’s financial rights.

Outstanding wages and entitlements become debts of the estate and may be claimed against the heirs or the appointed administrator of the succession.

Further, disputes arising under this law fall within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation ("MOHRE") at first instance, and subsequently the competent Labour Court where required.

II. The complaint procedure

1. Filing a complaint with MOHRE

   
   

A domestic worker who has not received wages or whose rights have been violated must first file a complaint before the MOHRE.

MOHRE will:

• Register the complaint ;

• Invite both parties to mediation ;

• Attempt to reach an amicable settlement.

  
  

If mediation fails, two scenarios arise:

• If the claim does not exceed AED 50,000, MOHRE may issue a decision having the force of an executive instrument.

• If the claim exceeds AED 50,000, the matter is referred to the competent Labour Court.

  
  

It is essential to understand that strict deadlines apply, particularly where a party wishes to challenge a MOHRE decision.

2. Appealing a MOHRE Decision

Where MOHRE issues a final decision and the worker disagrees with the outcome, an appeal may be filed before the competent Labour Court within 15 working days from notification.

Labour cases are exempt from court filing fees.

An appeal may seek:

• Payment of unpaid salaries ;

• End-of-service gratuity ;

• Compensation for arbitrary dismissal ;

• Payment in lieu of annual leave not taken ;

• Any other statutory entitlement.

A party who wishes to challenge a decision issued by MOHRE must file an appeal before the competent Labour Court within the statutory deadline.

It is important to be aware of the applicable court fee structure:

• If the amount claimed does not exceed AED 100,000, the appeal is generally exempt from court filing fees.

  
  

• If the amount claimed exceeds AED 100,000, court fees may apply and are typically calculated at 10% of the claimed amount, subject to the maximum limits prescribed by the local court regulations.

  
  

Before filing an appeal, careful assessment of the claimed amount and potential court fees is essential in order to determine the most strategic approach.

To learn more about your rights and assess the viability of your appeal, book a legal consultation with our office. Early legal advice can significantly improve your chances of success.

Source : Federal Decree Law No. 21 of 2023 Amending Certain Provisions of Federal Decree Law No.9 of 2022 Concerning Domestic Workers