153 employers in UAE face up to AED50,000 penalty for illegal employment practices

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) has imposed fines on 153 employers for violations relating to the employment of domestic workers. These fines, which can reach up to Dh50,000, were levied following the discovery of domestic workers illegally working for individuals other than their registered employers.

This crackdown comes as a result of comprehensive inspections carried out across the UAE over the last two months. Mohre has also taken the step of blocking the files of these employers, preventing them from applying for new domestic worker permits. Additionally, these cases will be referred to the Public Prosecution for potential legal and financial sanctions.

The ministry has issued a stern warning against employing domestic workers without proper permits or allowing them to work for others without resolving their status. Such practices are not only a violation of the law but also pose health and social risks, as highlighted by Mohre.

This action is in line with the federal decree law issued in 2022, which mandates that domestic workers must not engage in employment without appropriate permits and must not take up other jobs unless certain conditions are met. Companies employing these workers will face similar consequences.

Mohre has advised employers to engage only with licensed domestic worker recruitment agencies, which are supervised by the ministry to ensure quality services. These agencies are listed on Mohre’s official website and social media pages. The ministry encourages residents to report any illegal practices or provide feedback about domestic worker recruitment agencies by contacting the hotline at 600590000.