UAE Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Domestic Worker Recruitment
The United Arab Emirates has taken decisive action by closing 12 offices accused of recruiting domestic workers without the required licences. This enforcement move was officially announced on Wednesday, 25 February, as part of a broader initiative to regulate the sector and protect both workers and employers.
Legal Actions and Violations
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed that these cases have been referred to the Public Prosecution. This step was coordinated with Economic Development Departments across the country to ensure a unified approach against illegal practices. The ministry emphasised that the offices were operating illegally, highlighting a zero-tolerance policy towards such breaches.
In addition to the closures, authorities revealed that 300 violations were recorded in 2025 alone, involving 57 licensed domestic worker recruitment offices. These figures underscore the scale of the issue and the government's commitment to rigorous enforcement. Officials stressed that field inspection teams and advanced smart monitoring systems are actively deployed to detect and address violations promptly.
Public Advisory and Compliance Measures
Currently, there are 136 licensed recruitment centres operating nationwide. Authorities have urged customers to deal exclusively with these approved offices to avoid risks associated with unlicensed providers. The public is encouraged to report any negative practices through official digital channels or by calling the dedicated hotline at 80084. For verification purposes, customers can also call 600590000 to check the credibility of agencies advertising on social media platforms.
Earlier this month, it was disclosed that 230 social media accounts were shut down during 2025 for promoting unlicensed domestic worker recruitment services. Investigations found that these account holders lacked the necessary licences and were not affiliated with authorised recruitment centres. Officials warned that such activities violate the Domestic Workers Law and could lead to severe legal consequences, including penalties for employers who engage with unlicensed providers.
Regulatory Framework and Ongoing Efforts
Domestic worker recruitment in the UAE is governed by specific legal frameworks designed to safeguard the rights and interests of all parties involved. Authorities conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance across the sector, reinforcing transparency and accountability. The ministry reiterated its commitment to taking firm and transparent action in line with the law, aiming to maintain a fair and regulated labour market.
This crackdown is part of a sustained enforcement drive to eliminate illegal practices and promote ethical recruitment standards. By leveraging technology and public cooperation, the UAE aims to enhance oversight and protect vulnerable workers from exploitation.
