If your domestic worker leaves your home without notice or permission and cannot be contacted, UAE law allows you to file an official MOHRE Absconding Report. This guide explains when and how to file, what the legal consequences are, and how to cancel the report if the worker returns.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 📋 Service | Domestic Worker Absence (Absconding) Report |
| 📱 File Via | MOHRE App, mohre.gov.ae |
| ⚖️ Legal Effect | Worker flagged in UAE immigration system |
| 🔄 Cancel | Cancellation request available if resolved |
| 📞 MOHRE Helpline | 800 60 |
| 🚨 Important | Employer remains responsible until report is filed |
⚠️ When Should You File an Absconding Report?
- ✅ Worker has left without notice and cannot be contacted
- ✅ Worker has been absent from work for more than 7 consecutive days
- ✅ You have made genuine attempts to locate the worker
- ✅ Worker has moved out of the employer's residence
⚠️ As long as a domestic worker is on your visa sponsorship in the UAE's system, you remain their legal sponsor and responsible party. Filing the absconding report formally shifts this responsibility to MOHRE.
🔄 How to File the Absconding Report
Download from App Store/Google Play or visit mohre.gov.ae
Use your UAE PASS credentials for secure access.
Navigate to domestic worker services and choose the reporting option.
Worker's name, passport number, Emirates ID, work permit number.
Specify when the worker left or stopped reporting to work.
Receive a reference number and confirmation.
Separately apply to cancel the domestic worker's work permit to complete the process.
✅ What Happens After Filing?
- 🔴 Worker is flagged in the UAE immigration and labor systems
- 🛂 Worker may be detained at borders or police checkpoints
- 📋 MOHRE officially records that the employer has reported the absence
- ⚖️ If the worker has filed a complaint against you, MOHRE will investigate both claims
- 💼 You should also proceed to cancel the work permit separately
🔄 Cancelling the Absconding Report
If the worker returns or the situation is resolved, you can file a Cancellation of Absconding Report through MOHRE. Both the employer and worker can request this cancellation.
Login with UAE PASS.
Navigate to your domestic worker file.
Select 'Cancel Absconding Report' and provide reason.
MOHRE may contact both parties before approving cancellation.
Once approved, worker's status is restored in the system.
Can a domestic worker who was reported absconding continue to work in UAE?
While the report is active, the worker is in an illegal status and cannot legally work in UAE. If the worker wishes to regularize status, they must approach MOHRE with the employer or voluntarily depart and return legally.
What if the domestic worker files a complaint against me first?
MOHRE investigates both parties. Filing a false absconding report against a worker who has a legitimate complaint is a serious offence. MOHRE mediates disputes fairly.
Can I hire another domestic worker while the absconding report is active?
Yes — you can apply for a replacement domestic worker through a Tadbeer center while the absconding case is pending.
Does filing an absconding report cost anything?
The MOHRE absconding report service is free of charge via the MOHRE app.
What if my maid was a victim of abuse — can she file against me?
Yes — domestic workers can file complaints against abusive employers through MOHRE. MOHRE has a 24-hour toll-free helpline (800 60) and protection center services.
🏠 Find a MOHRE-Verified Tadbeer Center Near You
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📌 Source: MOHRE UAE Official Website — Updated 2026. Always verify latest requirements at mohre.gov.ae.