Hiring a domestic worker in the UAE has long been a complex process involving visa applications, salary transfers, medical testing, and compliance with labour regulations. For many households, the decision often comes down to whether to sponsor a worker privately or to use a licensed agency that manages the process end to end.
Under UAE law, domestic workers are regulated by Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, which outlines employers’ responsibilities. These include providing medical insurance, paying salaries on time, and settling end-of-service dues such as gratuity and return airfare.
Failure to comply can result in fines or legal disputes, placing the burden squarely on employers who choose private sponsorship.
Private sponsorship remains a legal option for expatriates earning at least Dh25,000 per month. However, it typically involves multiple visits to government offices, typing centres, and medical facilities.
Employers must submit documents such as Ejari tenancy contracts, salary certificates, marriage attestations, and cheques. The total cost of a two-year visa under private sponsorship can reach Dh17,000, excluding the time spent managing renewals and monthly salary payments.
In contrast, agency hiring has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by the government-backed Tadbeer system and, more recently, digital-first platforms such as maids.cc. These agencies act as the employer of record, assuming responsibility for visas, payroll, insurance, and compliance with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
According to maids.cc, its two-year visa package costs Dh8,500 with no security deposit, nearly half the cost of private sponsorship. The platform claims visa issuance can be completed within seven days through a fully online process, requiring only a copy of the worker’s passport.
Salaries are transferred automatically each month, removing the need for cash payments or manual bank transfers.
The agency model also shifts legal liability away from households. End-of-service dues, travel permissions, and non-objection certificates are handled by the agency, reducing the risk of unexpected expenses. By comparison, many traditional maid agencies still require deposits of up to Dh5,000, multiple physical visits, and additional fees for services such as travel approvals.
maids.cc, formerly known as Tadbeer, operates across all seven emirates and reports serving more than 25,000 families. It holds a 4.8 out of 5 rating based on over 14,000 clients and is described as the UAE’s second-largest employer and one of the largest visa issuers in the country.
Industry observers note that while private sponsorship offers greater personal control, it demands time, administrative effort, and legal awareness. Agency hiring, particularly through digital platforms, is increasingly seen as a safer and more efficient alternative, especially for families prioritising convenience and compliance.
As the UAE continues to modernise its labour systems, digital agency models appear set to play a growing role in how households hire and manage domestic workers.