Under UAE law, every domestic worker must have a MOHRE-registered employment contract. Verbal agreements are not legally recognized. This guide explains exactly what the standard MOHRE domestic worker contract covers, what your rights and obligations are, and how to register it officially.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 📋 Contract Type | MOHRE Standard Domestic Worker Employment Contract |
| ⚖️ Legal Basis | Federal Decree Law No. 9 of 2022 (amended 2023) |
| 📱 Register Via | MOHRE App or Tadbeer center |
| 💰 Cost | Free to register via MOHRE app |
| 📞 MOHRE Helpline | 800 60 |
| 🔄 Mandatory? | Yes — verbal contracts are not legal in UAE |
⚖️ Legal Framework — UAE Domestic Worker Law 2026
The Federal Decree Law No. 9 of 2022, amended by Federal Decree Law No. 21 of 2023, governs all domestic worker employment in the UAE. Key provisions include:
- ✅ Mandatory written MOHRE contract — no verbal agreements
- ✅ Salary must be paid via Wages Protection System (WPS)
- ✅ Maximum 12 hours of work per day with rest periods
- ✅ 1 day off per week (paid)
- ✅ 30 days paid leave per year after 1 year of service
- ✅ Medical insurance is mandatory (especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi)
- ✅ End of service gratuity: 14 days per year of service
- ✅ Return air ticket to home country every 2 years
📝 What the MOHRE Contract Must Include
Full names and nationalities of employer and worker, passport numbers, job title and description.
Agreed monthly salary in AED, payment method (must be WPS-compliant), payment date.
Daily working hours (max 12), weekly rest day, prayer time provisions.
30 days paid annual leave per year, leave scheduling rules.
Employer's obligation to provide suitable housing and three meals per day.
Start date, end date (typically 2 years), renewal terms.
Notice period (typically 30 days), grounds for immediate termination, gratuity entitlement.
Gratuity calculation (14 days per year), return air ticket obligation.
🔄 How to Get and Register the MOHRE Contract
Via MOHRE app, MOHRE website, or through your Tadbeer center.
Both employer and worker details, agreed terms, and signatures.
Employer and domestic worker must both sign the contract.
Upload the signed contract to MOHRE for official registration.
Both employer and worker must each receive a signed original copy.
💰 Minimum Salary Guidelines 2026
| Position | Typical Monthly Salary (AED) |
|---|---|
| Housemaid / Housekeeper | AED 700 – 1,800 |
| Nanny / Nursemaid | AED 1,000 – 2,200 |
| Private Nurse | AED 1,500 – 3,500 |
| Cook | AED 800 – 1,800 |
| Private Driver / Chauffeur | AED 1,000 – 2,500 |
| Caregiver for Elderly | AED 1,200 – 2,800 |
Note: UAE has no fixed minimum wage for domestic workers — salaries are negotiated and must be documented in the MOHRE contract.
⚠️ Contract Violations — Employer Obligations
❌ Employers MUST NOT:
- Confiscate the worker's passport
- Change contract terms without worker consent
- Delay salary payment beyond 10 days of due date
- Deny weekly rest day or annual leave
- Subject the worker to physical, verbal, or emotional abuse
🚨 Violations can result in fines up to AED 100,000 and potential imprisonment.
What is the MOHRE standard domestic worker contract?
It is the official UAE government contract template issued by the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation that legally governs all domestic employment relationships in the UAE.
Can I change the contract terms after signing?
Contract amendments must be agreed upon by both parties and registered with MOHRE. Employers cannot unilaterally change terms that reduce the worker's benefits.
What is end of service gratuity for domestic workers?
Domestic workers who complete one or more years of service are entitled to gratuity calculated at 14 days of basic salary per year of service.
Can a domestic worker resign from their contract?
Yes — a domestic worker can resign with 30 days' notice. If the employer violates the contract, the worker can leave immediately and file a complaint with MOHRE.
What happens at the end of the 2-year contract?
If both parties agree, the contract can be renewed for another 2 years. The worker is also entitled to a return air ticket to their home country at contract end.
🏠 Find a MOHRE-Verified Tadbeer Center Near You
GCC Domestic has the most complete directory of 137+ MOHRE-approved Tadbeer centers across all 7 UAE emirates. Compare centers, view WhatsApp contacts, and hire legally — zero commission.
📌 Source: MOHRE UAE Official Website — Updated 2026. Always verify latest requirements at mohre.gov.ae.