UAE imposes a fine of up to Dh200,000 for employing maids without a work permit

In the UAE, hiring a maid without a valid work permit or UAE residency visa is against the law.

According Article 17(3)(a) of the UAE Domestic Workers Law, those discovered using a maid without the required permits could be fined anywhere from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000. One of the violations is paying a domestic worker without getting the necessary work authorization.

Furthermore, under UAE Immigration Law's clauses, deportation might be included among the penalties. Articles 25(1) and (7) of the Immigration Law provide that anyone who employ, harbour, or lodge a foreigner in contravention of the law could pay fines of Dh50,000 and be imprisoned with a larger sentence in case of repeated offences. Upon recidivism, both the offending alien and the employer have to be deported.

Employers who follow the rules should not hire a maid come into the UAE on a visit visa right away. Following UAE Domestic Workers Law and pertinent rules, they should thus apply for the maid's work permit and UAE resident visa upon her arrival. Employers have to satisfy requirements including minimum pay, marital status, and suitable lodging depending on dwelling room count.

The UAE Domestic Workers Law stresses the need of employing domestic workers utilizing government-approved maid recruiting companies. Article five of the legislation lists the responsibilities of various agencies.

Employers hiring a maid have to adhere to the rules set down in the UAE Domestic Workers Law. These policies cover health insurance costs, treat the maid with respect, let her keep her official documentation, offer appropriate accommodation, food and means, clothing if needed, guarantee timely payment of remuneration, cover necessary facilities for the maid to perform her duties, and so ensure her welfare. The UAE Domestic Workers Law's Article 11 addresses an employer's or sponsor's responsibilities toward a domestic worker.