UAE: MoHRE takes down 77 social media accounts for illegal domestic worker recruitment

TL;DR

• UAE shut down 77 social media accounts for illegally promoting domestic worker services
• Hiring through unlicensed sources may leave employers without legal protection
• Authorities urge families to use only approved agencies and report suspicious activity

The UAE government has taken action against 77 social media accounts promoting unlicensed domestic worker recruitment. These accounts, active during the first half of this year, were operating without approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Working with these illegal services might seem easier or cheaper at first. But it comes with serious legal and personal risks. Hiring someone without a formal agreement or proper oversight can lead to theft, property damage, injury, and more and in most cases, you won’t be protected by law if something goes wrong.

This isn’t just about following rules. It’s about keeping families safe and ensuring workers are treated fairly.

What Happened After Investigation
In a joint operation with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority ( TDRA ), MoHRE shut down 77 social media accounts that were offering domestic workers without licenses. These pages were operating outside legal channels, bypassing regulation meant to protect both employers and workers.

This isn’t the first time authorities have acted. Earlier in 2024, MoHRE found 55 illegal recruitment operations, including five other social media accounts.

Why Illegal Hiring Is a Big Problem
Hiring domestic workers through unofficial channels might look like a shortcut, but it opens the door to serious trouble. Here’s why:

You Lose Legal Protection: If something goes wrong, like theft or injury, you may not be covered. There’s no legal contract in place, and that puts you in a weak position.

There’s No Guarantee of Worker Screening: Licensed agencies must follow strict rules. Unlicensed ones don’t. That means no background checks, no medical clearance, and no oversight.

You Could Be Held Liable: If a worker hurts someone or damages property, and they were hired illegally, the responsibility could fall on you. In some cases, legal action might even be taken against the employer.

What You Can Do

• Always Use Licensed Agencies: MoHRE has a list of approved domestic worker recruitment offices on its official website. These agencies are registered, accountable, and follow UAE labour laws.
• Be Wary of Social Media Ads: If someone’s offering domestic help through WhatsApp or Instagram, think twice. Always verify their credentials. If something seems off, report it.
• Check Before You Hire: MoHRE has a helpline (600590000) you can call to check if a recruitment agency or contact is legitimate.

Risks of Hiring Unlicensed Workers
Here’s a breakdown of common problems people face when hiring outside the legal system:

• Theft: No formal contract means you might struggle to prove wrongdoing or recover losses
• Property Damage: Without legal terms in place, it's hard to claim compensation
• Injury (to you or others): If someone gets hurt, your lack of a legal agreement can complicate insurance or legal claims
• Third-Party Harm: If the worker causes harm to a guest or neighbour, you may be legally responsible

The risks of hiring domestic help through unofficial channels aren’t just legal, they’re personal. Your safety, your family’s well-being, and your peace of mind depend on doing things the right way.

If you’re looking for help at home, go through proper channels. It’s safer, fairer, and it protects everyone involved.

FAQ

• 1. What are the risks of hiring domestic workers through social media?

You could lose legal protection, face liability if something goes wrong, and put your home at risk. It’s also against UAE law to hire through unlicensed platforms.

• 2. How can I check if a recruitment agency is legal?

Visit the MoHRE website or call their helpline at 600590000 to confirm the agency is registered and approved.

• 3. What should I do if I come across a suspicious ad?

Avoid contacting the account, and report it to MoHRE or TDRA. The government relies on community reports to track down illegal operations.