Hiring a domestic worker in the UAE requires an official MOHRE work permit — no exceptions. Whether you want to hire a housemaid, nanny, cook, driver, or caregiver, this guide walks you through every document, fee, condition, and step to get your domestic worker's permit quickly and legally in 2026.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 🏛️ Authority | MOHRE — Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation |
| 📱 Apply Via | MOHRE App, mohre.gov.ae, or Tadbeer center |
| 💰 Cost | Free via MOHRE (federal charges only apply) |
| ⏱️ Processing | 1 business day (typical) |
| 📞 MOHRE Helpline | 800 60 |
| 🏛️ Tadbeer Centers | 137 MOHRE-approved centers across UAE |
📋 Who Needs a MOHRE Domestic Work Permit?
Any UAE resident employer wishing to hire a domestic worker legally must apply for a MOHRE work permit. This includes Emirati nationals, GCC residents, and expatriate residents sponsoring domestic help on their personal visa file.
Work permits are required for all 19 officially recognized domestic worker categories, including:
👩 Female Workers
- Housemaid / Housekeeper
- Nanny / Nursemaid
- Private Nurse
- Cook / Private Cook
- Private Chauffeur
- Governess / Tutor
- Family Seamstress
- Caregiver for Elderly
👨 Male Workers
- Private Security Guard
- Private Driver / Chauffeur
- Gardner / Horticulturist
- Private Sailor
- Family Cook
- Private Trainer / Coach
- Personal Bodyguard
- Horse Groomer
✅ Eligibility Conditions
- ✅ Employer's passport must be valid
- ✅ Employer's Emirates ID must be valid
- ✅ Expat employers must have a valid UAE residence permit
- ✅ Domestic worker's passport must be valid for at least 3 months
- ✅ Worker must have a valid medical fitness examination result
- ✅ In Abu Dhabi and Dubai: employer must provide medical insurance
💡 Free Service: Applying for a MOHRE domestic work permit is free of charge via MOHRE's website and smart app — only standard federal charges (medical, Emirates ID, visa) apply.
📋 Required Documents
- Employer's passport copy — including the unified number page (for UAE nationals)
- Employer's Emirates ID — valid copy
- Domestic worker's passport copy — valid for minimum 3 months
- Medical fitness examination — valid result from an approved medical centre
- Residence permit copy — for expatriate employers
- Medical insurance proof — required in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
🔄 How to Apply — Step by Step
Available on iOS and Android. Search "MOHRE" — the official UAE government app.
Use UAE PASS for seamless authentication.
Navigate to domestic worker services.
Enter passport numbers, nationalities, and occupation category.
Attach all documents electronically in the app.
Receive a reference number for tracking.
Via MOHRE app, mohre.gov.ae, or call 800 60
Once approved, download and save the digital permit.
🌐 Alternative Application Channels
- 📱 MOHRE Smart App — fastest and recommended
- 🌐 MOHRE Website — mohre.gov.ae
- 🏛️ Tadbeer Centers — 137 MOHRE-approved centers across UAE handle full process
- 🏢 MOHRE Service Centers — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman and other emirates
💰 What Are the Actual Costs?
| Fee Type | Cost | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| MOHRE Work Permit Application | Free | MOHRE |
| Medical Fitness Test | AED 320–500 | Approved health center |
| Emirates ID Issuance | AED 100–370 | ICA |
| Residence Visa Stamping | AED 220–570 | GDRFA/ICA |
| Medical Insurance | AED 500–1,500/year | Insurance provider |
| Tadbeer Full Package | AED 3,000–7,000 | Tadbeer center |
🏛️ Hiring Through a Tadbeer Center vs Direct
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tadbeer Center | All-inclusive, MOHRE guaranteed, replacement policy | Higher upfront cost |
| Direct via MOHRE | Lower government fees | You handle all paperwork |
How long does a MOHRE domestic work permit take?
Typically 1 business day via the MOHRE app when all documents are in order. Tadbeer centers may take slightly longer due to additional processing.
Can I hire a domestic worker who is already in the UAE?
Yes — if the worker is on a visit visa or has a cancelled visa, you can apply for a work permit through the change of status process. The worker must be inside the UAE legally at the time of application.
Is there a minimum salary requirement to sponsor a maid in UAE?
Yes — you must demonstrate sufficient income to support a domestic worker. Generally, a monthly income of AED 6,000 or more is required, though requirements vary by emirate and family size.
What nationalities are allowed for domestic workers in UAE?
The UAE has MOUs with many countries including the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Bangladesh and others. Check with MOHRE for the current approved list.
Can I apply for more than one domestic worker?
Yes — the number of domestic workers you can sponsor depends on your income, family size, and MOHRE regulations. Typically, one worker per AED 6,000 of monthly income.
What happens if I hire a domestic worker without a MOHRE permit?
Employing a domestic worker without a proper MOHRE work permit is illegal. You risk heavy fines, deportation of the worker, and possible legal action against the employer.
🏠 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.