Maids Visa in Dubai and the UAE

The UAE is known for its luxurious lifestyle and high standard of living. Many residents rely on domestic help to manage their households and maintain their quality of life. If you’re considering hiring a maid in Dubai or the UAE, it’s essential to understand the visa process and requirements. To legally employ a maid, a resident must obtain a maids visa, also known as a Domestic Worker Visa . This allows a foreign national to live and work in the UAE as a domestic worker. The UAE Domestic Labour Law applies to 19 occupations, including maids, nannies, drivers, and cooks . Getting a domestic worker visa in the UAE has become remarkably straightforward in recent years .

In Dubai and the UAE, having domestic help is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity for many. The fast-paced Dubai lifestyle means residents often rely on maids and caretakers to manage households, assist with Everyday tasks, and provide essential caregiving. For families in Dubai, maids are invaluable, offering support and peace of mind. If you are a resident in Dubai and wish to bring domestic help to your home, obtaining a Maid Visa in Dubai is a simple straightforward process.
In this guide, we simplify all essential information about the Maid Visa UAE for 2025, making sure you can easily navigate the application process and follow all UAE labor laws. Let’s start by understanding what a Maid Visa in Dubai really is.

Understanding the Maid Visa in Dubai

A Maid Visa, also known as a Domestic Worker Visa or Housemaid Visa Dubai, is an official permit allowing individuals to legally work as nannies or household helpers in Dubai and the wider UAE. As a UAE resident, you can sponsor a domestic helper’s residency by securing a Maid Visa.

Terms like “Nanny Visa Dubai” or “Housemaid Dubai Visa” all refer to the Maid Visa in the UAE. This visa is valid for 2 years and requires annual renewal by the sponsor to maintain the worker’s legal residency and employment.

Benefits of Obtaining a Maid Visa in Dubai

Key Benefits of Securing a Maid Visa UAE

Hiring a maid or other domestic worker significantly simplifies life by freeing up your valuable time. This allows you to concentrate on your career, business, and other important responsibilities. Here are key benefits of securing a Maid Visa UAE:

✔️ Gain More Time: Maids handle daily chores, giving you more time for work, family, and personal pursuits.
✔️ Legal Compliance: A Maid Visa UAE ensures you are hiring domestic help legally, avoiding potential legal issues associated with unofficial or cash-basis employment in the UAE.
✔️ Cost-Effective Solution: Direct hiring through a Maid Visa is often more economical than agency placements. While adhering to UAE minimum wage laws, it remains more affordable than agency hourly rates.
✔️ Reliable Child and Elderly Care: Household workers can provide dependable care for children and elderly family members, offering peace of mind and reducing family stress.
✔️ Build Trust and Reliability: Live-in maids often become trusted family members, offering consistent support and a dependable presence.
✔️ Delegate Multiple Tasks: Household workers are capable of multitasking, handling cooking, cleaning, and caregiving, eliminating the need for multiple specialized service providers.
✔️ Create Employment Opportunities: By hiring domestic help with a Maid Visa, you provide valuable income and opportunities for individuals and their families.

Maid Visa in Dubai: Eligibility Requirements for 2025

To employ a maid in the UAE, both the sponsor and the maid must meet specific requirements. These requirements ensure the maid’s well-being and that the sponsor can meet their legal obligations. There are essential eligibility criteria for Maid Visa sponsorship in Dubai. These requirements apply to both the maid and the sponsor/employer.

Maid Visa UAE: Eligibility Criteria

1. Eligibility Criteria for the Domestic Worker (Maid):

The maid must meet the following criteria:

Age: Between 18 and 60 years.
Nationality: The maid must be from an approved country. These countries have Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the UAE, facilitating the employment of their citizens as domestic workers. Approved nationalities generally include India, the Philippines, Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.
Medical Fitness: The maid must pass a medical fitness test at an approved health center in the UAE.
Passport Validity: The maid must possess a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
Police Clearance Certificate: For maids from African countries, a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from the maid’s home country is mandatory.

2. Eligibility Criteria for the Sponsor (Employer) for Maid Visa:

Individuals who wish to sponsor a maid must meet the following criteria:

Residency Requirements: The sponsor must have a valid UAE residence visa.
Age Requirement: The sponsor must be at least 21 years old.
Minimum Income: Must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 25,000.
Residency & Emirates ID: Must hold a valid UAE residency visa and Emirates ID.
Accommodation: Must rent or own a suitable apartment in Dubai with at least two bedrooms to accommodate the maid.
Eligible Nationalities: Can hire maids from specific countries including India, the Philippines, Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.
Medical Insurance: Must provide comprehensive medical insurance coverage for the hired maid.
Profession Criteria: Sponsorship is typically allowed for individuals in high-income professions such as doctors, engineers, and business owners.

Important Note: Currently, single individuals (bachelors) are generally not permitted to sponsor maids in Dubai. For the most up-to-date regulations, always consult the official UAE government website.

New Regulations for Maid Visa in Dubai by MOHRE

If you are considering hiring a maid in Dubai, it’s crucial to understand the latest regulations governing domestic workers. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) introduced Federal Decree-Law No. 9 on September 15, 2022, to enhance the working conditions and security of domestic workers in the UAE. This law also clarifies the responsibilities of employers, recruitment agencies, and domestic workers themselves.

According to MOHRE decree, hiring domestic workers is primarily facilitated through MOHRE-licensed agencies. However, certain residents, like Golden Visa holders, may be eligible for direct sponsorship of domestic help. The decree also mandates a standardized employment contract between the sponsor and the maid.

Standard Labour Contract for Maid Visa in Dubai

As mandated by MOHRE labor law, sponsors must establish a formal contract with their maid, adhering to the ministry’s standard contract template. A copy of this contract must be provided to the housemaid. This legally binding contract, signed by both parties, must detail crucial information including:

Names of the sponsor and maid
Contract duration (typically 2 years)
Job description and responsibilities
Start date of employment
Details of accommodation
Agreed salary and payment schedule
Rest periods and daily/weekly off-days
Annual leave entitlements
Termination clauses and procedures

How to Get a Maid Visa in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Let’s outline the process of obtaining a Domestic Worker Visa UAE or Maid Visa in Dubai. Here is a detailed breakdown of the housemaid visa process in Dubai for 2025:

Step 1 – Verify Eligibility:

Begin by ensuring both you (the sponsor) and the domestic worker meet all eligibility criteria for a Maid Visa. You must be eligible for maid sponsorship, and the maid must meet all MOHRE regulatory requirements.

Step 2 – Choose Your Application Method:

Decide whether to apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDFRA) directly or seek assistance from a licensed Tadbeer center. Tadbeer centers, operating under MOHRE, are specialized agencies offering comprehensive services for maid visas, including entry permits, visa status changes, medical insurance, and visa renewals or cancellations. They provide convenient maid visa packages for both UAE residents and expatriates, simplifying the process of finding, sponsoring, and hiring domestic workers in the UAE.

Step 3 – Prepare Required Documents:

Gather all necessary documents for the Maid Visa application. Having these prepared in advance will ensure a smoother submission process.

Documents Required for Maid Visa in Dubai:

For the Sponsor:

Completed and signed Maid Visa application form
Copies of passports for sponsor and spouse
Original Emirates ID of the sponsor
Marriage certificate (attested) as proof of relationship
Lease contract or Title Deed for your Dubai residence (minimum 2-bedroom apartment)
Bank statement for the last 3 months (sponsor’s account)
Copies of UAE Residence Visas for sponsor and spouse
Salary certificate from employer as proof of minimum income
Copy of sponsor’s Labor Contract
Non-Relationship Affidavit (if applicable, to confirm no familial relation with the maid)
Written explanation if hiring more than 5 domestic workers (if applicable)

For the Maid:

Copy of the maid’s passport
Passport-sized photograph of the maid
Medical fitness certificate from a UAE-approved medical center
Maid’s Visit Visa (if already inside the UAE)
Cancellation document of previous UAE work visa (if applicable)

Please note: Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances. Consult with GloboPrime Attestation & Business Setup experts for a precise document checklist tailored to your situation.

Step 4 – Apply for the Maid Visa:

Once all documents are prepared, proceed with the Maid Visa application by visiting a Tadbeer center or applying through GDRFA channels to officially bring your maid to Dubai.

Steps for Maid Visa Approval and Stamping in Dubai:

Obtain Entry Permit: Apply for and secure an entry permit for the maid to legally enter the UAE and begin the residency visa process.
Complete Medical Test: Schedule and complete the mandatory medical fitness examination for the maid at a government-approved health center. The medical fitness certificate is valid for 90 days.
Emirates ID Registration: Apply for the maid’s Emirates ID through official government online portals or authorized typing centers. Biometric screening must be completed within 10 days of Emirates ID application.
Sign MOHRE Employment Contract: Officially sign the MOHRE-standard employment contract with the maid, ensuring compliance with the latest UAE labor laws.
Purchase Medical Insurance: Secure a valid health insurance policy for the maid after signing the labor contract. Emirates ID and the medical fitness certificate will be required for insurance application.
Residency Visa Stamping: Upon completion of all formalities and receiving necessary approvals, apply to have the residency visa officially stamped in the maid’s passport and obtain the Domestic Worker Identity Card.

Need Assistance? Let GloboPrime experts simplify the entire process! We provide expert assistance for both new Maid Visa applications and UAE visa renewals.

Maid Visa UAE Cost Breakdown

The cost of a maids visa in Dubai can vary depending on several factors, including the sponsorship type and the agency you use. Here’s a general overview of the costs involved:

Cost of a Maid’s Visa

Visa Type	Cost	Deposit
Tadbeer Visa	AED 8,500	AED 0
Private Sponsorship	AED 17,000	AED 2,000
All Other Maid Offices	AED 8,500	AED 5,000

In addition to the visa fees, there may be other expenses, such as:

Typing center fees
Health insurance
Medical test fees
Labor contract charges
Emirates ID and worker ID fees
Renewal and cancellation charges

The cost of a 2-year Maid Visa in Dubai through Tadbeer centers typically starts from AED 8,500*. This package often includes full visa sponsorship, medical fitness test fees, health insurance, Emirates ID costs, a free WPS bank account setup, PRO services, and more.

General Expenses for a Maid Visa in Dubai Typically Include:

Visa Application fees
Typing center service charges
Mandatory Health insurance premiums
Medical examination fees
Labor contract processing fees
Emirates ID and Worker ID card fees
Visa Renewal and Cancellation charges (if applicable)

For a detailed and personalized breakdown of Maid Visa costs, contact us for a professional consultation.

Hiring a Maid in Dubai: Important Considerations & Legal Compliance

As you prepare to sponsor your housemaid, it’s vital to be aware of key regulations and legal obligations for both you and your maid to ensure full compliance. The Federal Decree-Law no.9 (2022) outlines important points regarding domestic workers in the UAE:

1. Maid Entitlements Under UAE Law:

According to Federal-Decree Law, domestic workers are legally entitled to:

Timely Wage Payment: Salaries, as stipulated in the contract, must be paid within 10 days of the agreed due date.
Weekly Rest Day: A minimum of one fully paid rest day per week.
Daily Rest Period: A guaranteed 12-hour rest period daily, including at least 8 consecutive hours.
Paid Annual Leave: 30 days of paid annual leave per year of service.
Biennial Round-Trip Ticket: A return flight ticket to their home country every 2 years of continuous service.
Sick Leave: 30 days of sick leave per year.
Accommodation and Basic Needs: Appropriate housing, medical care, sufficient food, and suitable work attire must be provided by the employer.
Personal Document Possession: Maids have the legal right to hold their personal identification documents, including passports and Emirates IDs.

2. Sponsor Obligations Towards Domestic Workers:

Beyond the terms of the labor contract, employers are legally obligated to:

Provide suitable and respectful accommodation.
Ensure adequate meals and appropriate clothing are provided.
Pay wages punctually and in full.
Provide necessary medical care or comprehensive health insurance.
Guarantee a respectful and safe working environment.
Provide due compensation for any work-related injuries or occupational illnesses.

3. Prohibited Activities for Employers of Domestic Workers:

UAE labor law strictly prohibits employers from:

Employing workers under the age of 18.
Engaging in any form of human trafficking or forced labor.
Discriminating against workers based on race, color, gender, religion, or nationality.
Assigning tasks outside the scope of the agreed-upon employment contract.
Using any form of forced labor or coercion.
Engaging in any physical, verbal, or emotional abuse.

4. Obligations of Domestic Workers:

Domestic workers also have legal obligations, including:

Performing all contracted duties diligently and to the best of their ability.
Maintaining a high standard of professional conduct and duty.
Avoiding unjustified absences from work.
Respecting the UAE’s national customs, traditions, and laws.
Respecting the privacy of the employer’s household.
Maintaining and organizing workplace items and tools.
Providing assistance to the household and family in cases of emergencies, disasters, or hazards.

Rights and Responsibilities

Maid’s Rights

Under the UAE Domestic Labour Law, maids have several rights:

Fair Treatment: Maids are entitled to fair treatment and respect from their employers.
Working Hours: They cannot be made to work for more than 12 hours a day, and they are entitled to a minimum of 12 hours of rest per day, including 8 consecutive hours.
Weekly Rest: Maids have the right to one paid rest day per week.
Annual Leave: They are entitled to 30 days of paid annual leave per year.
Sick Leave: Maids can take 30 days of paid sick leave per year.
Medical Insurance: Employers must provide medical insurance for their maids.
Repatriation: Maids are entitled to a round-trip ticket home every two years.
Personal Documents: Maids have the right to keep their personal documents, such as their passport and ID, in their possession.
Legal Recourse: Maids in the UAE have legal recourse and can refer disputes to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Court Fee Exemption: Legal cases filed by housemaids are exempted from court fees.

Maid’s Responsibilities

Maids have certain responsibilities towards their employers:

Perform Duties: They must perform their duties diligently as per the employment contract.
Maintain Standards: They must maintain a high standard of work and care.
Respect: They must respect the employer’s privacy and household rules.
Observe Customs: They must observe the customs and traditions of the UAE community.

Sponsor’s Responsibilities

Sponsors have several responsibilities towards their maids:

Provide Accommodation: They must provide suitable and safe accommodation for the maid.
Provide Food: They must provide meals or a food allowance.
Pay Salary: They must pay the maid’s salary on time, as per the agreed contract.
Provide Medical Care: They must provide medical insurance and cover medical expenses.
Respect Rights: They must respect the maid’s rights and ensure fair treatment.

How to Cancel a Maid Visa in Dubai

To cancel a housemaid’s visa in Dubai, you will need to visit a Tadbeer office and bring the following original documents:

Sponsor’s Emirates ID
Housemaid’s Passport
Copy of Housemaid’s Visa
Copy of Housemaid’s Emirates ID

The government fee for housemaid visa cancellation is approximately AED 260. The visa cancellation approval process typically takes 2 to 3 working days.

Once the visa is cancelled, the housemaid has a maximum of 30 days to either:

Exit the UAE
Change their visa status to a new employment visa under a different sponsor or company
Switch to a tourist visa

Let GloboPrime Simplify Your Maid Visa Process!

Hiring a housemaid in Dubai can significantly enhance your quality of life by providing consistent support with daily household needs. If you’re considering a Maid Visa, it’s a highly beneficial decision. If the application process seems complex, let us streamline it for you. Our experienced experts ensure your Maid Visa application is handled efficiently and seamlessly, leveraging our in-depth knowledge of the system.

Beyond Maid Visas, our expertise extends to a full spectrum of visa and attestation services. We simplify complex procedures for various visa types, including Family Visas, Child Visas, Dependent Visas, and the prestigious Golden Visa. To ensure all your documentation is legally sound and readily accepted, we offer comprehensive attestation services, translation services, and embassy attestation. Our dedicated team also assists with document renewals, providing seamless and reliable support for all your visa and attestation needs in Dubai.

Call us: +971 56 462522
WhatsApp us: +971 56 462522
Email us: info@globoprime.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Maid Visa in Dubai

1. Which authority regulates domestic workers in the UAE?

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is the governing body responsible for regulating labor and the labor market in the UAE, including domestic workers.

2. What is the average cost of a Maid Visa in Dubai?

The cost of a Maid Visa in Dubai typically ranges from AED 8,500 to AED 17,000, depending on the sponsorship type and included services.

3. How can I contact Tadbeer centers?

You can reach Tadbeer by phone at +971 4 706 0111 or via email at contact@tadbeer.ae. Their office is located at Indigo Sky Building – Sheikh Zayed Road -Umm Al Sheif – Dubai.

4. What is the process for renewing a Maid Visa in Dubai?

To renew a Maid Visa in Dubai:

Obtain a visa renewal application and medical request form from an authorized typing center.
Submit these forms along with required documents to the GDRFA office and pay the applicable fees.
Alternatively, utilize Tadbeer service centers for a simplified renewal process.

Required documents for Maid Visa renewal generally include:

Maid’s Passport
Previous Residency Visa
Previous Emirates ID
Valid Health Insurance
And possibly other documents as per updated regulations.

5. Is it possible to cancel a Maid Visa in Dubai?

Yes, a Maid Visa in Dubai can be cancelled, but only by the sponsor/employer. Cancellation can be processed through the GDRFA website or via a Tadbeer service center.

6. What is the minimum and maximum age limit for a Maid Visa in Dubai?

Domestic workers must be at least 18 years old to be eligible for a Maid Visa UAE. Workers over 60 years old may continue working under specific conditions, including medical fitness, sponsor-covered medical expenses, and official government approval.

7. Is it possible to hire a maid from India for the UAE?

Yes, hiring maids from India for employment in the UAE is common and permitted. You can apply for the Maid Visa through private channels or via MOHRE-approved Tadbeer service centers. Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and have the necessary documents prepared for the visa application.

8. How can I check Maid Visa status online?

To check your Dubai Maid Visa status online, follow these simple steps using the official GDRFA website:

Go to GDRFA Website: Search “GDRFA Dubai” on Google and visit the official site.
Find “Residency Status” or “Visa Inquiry”: Look for these options, usually under “Services” or “Online Services.”
Enter Details: Input either your Visa Application Number or the Maid’s Passport Number.
View Status: After entering details and any security checks, the current Maid Visa status will be displayed.

9. How do I transfer my maid visa?

To transfer a maid’s visa to a new sponsor in Dubai:

Visit a Typing Center: Both old & new sponsors complete a transfer form.
Submit to GDRFA: Present forms, maid’s passport, and sponsor documents to GDRFA Residency section.
Pay Fee: New sponsor pays approximately AED 5,080 for the new visa.
Both old and new sponsors must be present for the transfer.
Verify Details: Confirm current fees and document lists with GDRFA or a typing center for the most up-to-date information.