Hiring a housemaid, nanny, driver, or cook in Dubai requires a Domestic Workers Visa, also called a Maid Visa. This visa allows families to legally employ household staff as per UAE laws.
If you’re planning to hire domestic help, this guide explains everything  -requirements, rules, process, fees, and helpful tips.

Table of Contents

1. What Is a Domestic Workers Visa in Dubai?

A Domestic Workers Visa allows a UAE resident to sponsor a household worker legally. The process is regulated through Tadbeer, the government-approved domestic worker system.

You can hire and sponsor:

  • Housemaids
  • Nannies
  • Private cooks
  • Home nurses
  • Gardeners
  • Cleaners
  • Drivers

These factors make Ajman a smooth entry point into the UAE market.

3. Employer Eligibility – Who Can Sponsor a Domestic Worker?

To sponsor a domestic worker, the employer must:

  • Be a UAE resident with a valid Emirates ID
  • Meet the minimum income requirement set by UAE law
  • Have proper accommodation
  • Live with the worker (in most cases)
  • Have no criminal record

You will need:

4. Education Requirement for Domestic Workers

The UAE does not require any minimum educational qualification for domestic workers.
No school certificates, degrees, or specific educational background are needed for roles like:

  • Housemaids
  • Nannies
  • Cleaners
  • Cooks
  • Gardeners
  • Drivers
  • Home caregivers

Instead, the UAE focuses on:

  • Medical fitness
  • Valid passport
  • Approved nationality
  • Age requirement
  • Contract and insurance compliance

5. Step-by-Step Process to Get a Domestic Workers Visa
Step 1: Application at Tadbeer

Submit personal and worker documents at an approved Tadbeer center.

Step 2: Entry Permit

The worker receives an entry permit to enter the UAE (if outside).

Step 3: Medical Examination

Worker completes mandatory medical tests.

Step 4: Emirates ID Biometrics

Biometrics are taken for Emirates ID processing.

Step 5: Visa Stamping

Residence visa is stamped in the worker’s passport.

Step 6: Contract Signing

Both employer and worker sign the official UAE domestic worker contract.

Step 7: Insurance Activation

Domestic worker insurance must be active before visa issuance

6. Key Contract Rules You Must Follow

As per UAE domestic labour law, employers must ensure:

  • Weekly day off
  • Paid annual leave
  • Paid sick leave
  • End-of-service benefits
  • Maximum work hours with breaks
  • Respectful and safe living/working conditions

7. Rights & Protections for Domestic Workers

UAE law ensures:

  • Worker keeps their passport
  • No recruitment fee charged to workers
  • Right to a safe working environment
  • Right to fair wages
  • Legal protection in case of disputes

8. Salary Guidelines

Salary varies based on:

  • Nationality
  • Experience
  • Skills
  • Embassy regulations

Employers must follow the minimum salary rules set by the worker’s home country and UAE regulations.

9. Visa Cost Factors

The final cost depends on:

  • Tadbeer service package
  • Worker’s nationality
  • Insurance category
  • Number of years on the visa
  • Additional approvals (if needed)
  • Medical test and Emirates ID steps

7. FAQs
What is a Domestic Workers Visa in Dubai?
It is a residence visa that allows a UAE resident to legally employ a housemaid, nanny, driver, cook, or other household staff through Tadbeer.
Who can sponsor a domestic worker in Dubai?
Any UAE resident with a valid Emirates ID, required monthly income, and suitable accommodation can sponsor a domestic worker. The sponsor must also live in the UAE full-time.
Can bachelors sponsor domestic workers?
No. Only married couples or families are generally allowed to sponsor domestic workers in the UAE.
What documents are needed for the application?
You will need employer documents (passport, Emirates ID, salary proof), worker documents (passport, photo), tenancy contract (Ejari), and a signed employment contract.
Is a medical test mandatory for domestic workers?
Yes. The worker must complete a medical fitness test before the visa can be issued.
How long does the domestic worker’s visa take?
Processing time depends on document readiness and Tadbeer procedures, but it generally takes a few working days once all steps are completed.
Can I hire a domestic worker from outside the UAE?
Yes. You can hire from abroad. The worker will enter Dubai on an entry permit, then complete medical and Emirates ID steps.
Can a domestic worker change employers?
Yes, under certain legal conditions and after approval from Tadbeer and UAE authorities.
What are the rights of domestic workers in Dubai?
They are entitled to weekly rest, paid leave, safe living conditions, fair wages, medical care, and respectful treatment under UAE law.
Do domestic workers get to keep their passports?
Yes. Domestic workers have the right to keep their own passports. Employers are not allowed to take or hold the worker’s passport according to UAE labour rules.

How MajuBiz Supports the Entire Process

Ajman is one of the easiest and most affordable places to start a business in the UAE. Whether you choose Mainland or Free Zone, the process is quick, clear, and friendly for new entrepreneurs. With the right guidance, setting up your business becomes smooth from licensing to visas and banking.

If you’re looking for expert support in navigating the UAE business setup journey, consultancies like MajuBiz help simplify everything with end-to-end assistance without adding complexity.

Book a Consultation with MajuBiz.

Domestic Workers Visa Dubai Guide 2025

Domestic Workers Visa Dubai Guide 2025