For families in the UAE, hiring a domestic worker is a popular solution when faced with managing daily responsibilities. Domestic workers are there to support families in a variety of ways including cleaning, cooking, child care, elderly care, and more. Family members can then focus on their jobs, take a rest after work, and enjoy quality time together, without worrying about which member of the family will focus on chores for the day.

Before you import someone into your home, you need to be aware of the process, requirements, responsibilities, and legal obligations that hiring a domestic worker will involve. Here’s a simple guide the help UAE families when hiring a domestic worker.

Knowing the Job of a Domestic Worker

A domestic worker is a person hired to help you do household chores (such as cleaning, laundry, cooking, babysitting, and even caring for elderly family members). They may live inside the home (live-in) or may work a daily shift (live-out).

A domestic worker may come from different countries which including the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, and Ethiopia, among others. An important aspect in maintaining a good working relationship is to respect their culture, provide a safe environment, and treat them with fairness.

Legal Process and Hiring Options

In the UAE, there are two main ways to legally hire a domestic worker:

Through a Tadbeer Center - This is the government-regulated method where everything from a visa application, salary agreement, etc., is all managed for you. This method is considered the most trustworthy and safest option.

Direct Sponsorship - In this method a family sponsors the domestic worker directly. While it can be more affordable, it requires the employer to prepare all necessary documents including visas, medical tests, and labour contracts.

Important Points to Know Before Hiring

Here are some good things for UAE families to keep in mind:

Eligibility: Not everyone can hire a domestic worker, you must meet certain income and housing criteria to qualify as a sponsor.

Contract terms: A written contract is necessary. It should explicitly define the worker's expected duties, pay, rest days, and other employment details.

Minimum Wage: Wages are based on the worker's nationality and years of experience. It is important to comply with the worker's country of origin and UAE laws and guidelines.

Medical and Insurance: The employer must arrange and provide valid medical tests, health insurance, and a residence visa.

Working Conditions: Domestic workers must be afforded at least minimum rest hours each day, weekly days off, and proper accommodation if they are live-in domestic workers.

Advice for a Productive Work Relationship

The basis for a positive atmosphere in your home is trust and open communication. Here are some useful practices:

Treat the domestic worker with courtesy and kindness.

Set expectations from the outset.

Provide proper training or orientation on household routines.

Allow for privacy and recovery time.

Discuss misunderstandings and resolve them through a calm inquiry.

Conclusion

Being a domestic worker can enhance a family's quality of life, but there is work involved and you have responsibilities that should be taken seriously. By understanding the law and treating your worker fairly and legally you not only meet your obligation to UAE law, but you have also created a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

Taking the time to do the right things today will create proficiency, harmony, and balance in your household later.