UAE sanctions 14 domestic worker recruitment firms for violating laws

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced that legal and administrative action has been taken against 14 domestic worker recruitment agencies during the month of January this year, after detecting 22 violations of the Domestic Workers Law and the legislation and regulations governing them.

The Ministry stated that the violations included 20 cases where the agencies failed to refund recruitment fees to employers within two weeks of a domestic worker's return or reported absence. Additionally, two violations were recorded for non-compliance with the Ministry’s regulations, circulars, decisions, commitments and other work guidelines related to domestic worker recruitment agencies.

In a statement, MoHRE stressed that it will take the necessary action against any agency proven to have committed violations, including revoking the license of offices involved in violations that warrant closure. The Ministry also highlighted its ongoing monitoring of recruitment agencies to ensure compliance with legal conditions and regulations to protect the rights of all parties.

The Ministry has called on employers to reach out through its approved digital channels and platforms or via the Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre on 80084 to report any violations committed by domestic worker recruitment agencies, particularly regarding the failure to adhere to the legal timeframe for refunding all or part of the recruitment fees. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to being responsive to employer feedback on recruitment agencies and to handling violations with seriousness, firmness, and transparency.

The Ministry affirmed the crucial role of domestic worker recruitment agencies in providing quality services to clients. These agencies must provide qualified domestic workers who can fulfill assigned tasks, while adhering to all legal regulations governing employer-employee relationships.

It urged both national and resident families to refrain from dealing with unlicensed domestic worker recruitment agencies and untrustworthy social media pages that promote services for this category of the workforce. Such practices may result in significant health and security risks to families, in addition to having to face the legal consequences for employing unlicensed workers.

Employers can view the official list of licensed agencies through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation's website at www.mohre.gov.ae, to avoid falling victim to misleading and fraudulent operations, as well as unlawful practices, and to prevent any problems or risks.