Hiring Domestic Help & a Driver in Dubai
One of the biggest lifestyle differences for UK expats in Dubai is the availability and affordability of domestic staff. Whether you want a live-in housekeeper, a part-time cleaner or a private driver, this guide walks you through the legal process, typical costs and what to expect.
Why This Is Different from the UK
In the UAE, domestic workers are employed directly by the household under a sponsored visa — not through an employment agency acting as the legal employer. This means you as the household are the visa sponsor, the legal employer and the responsible party. It carries real obligations, but it also means a level of flexibility and stability that agency-managed arrangements in the UK rarely offer.
AED 1,500–2,500/mo
Live-in housekeeper
AED 800–1,200/mo
Part-time cleaner (3 days/wk)
AED 2,500–4,000/mo
Private driver (live-out)
Role Breakdowns
Live-in Housekeeper / Nanny
- You must have a minimum monthly income of AED 25,000 to sponsor a live-in domestic worker.
- The visa costs approximately AED 5,000–8,000 all-in (medical, Emirates ID, visa fees) — paid by the employer.
- Most housekeepers come from the Philippines, Indonesia, India or Sri Lanka.
- A standard work contract is required and must be registered with MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources).
- Live-in staff are typically given one day off per week and 30 days annual leave after one year.
- You must provide accommodation, meals, and return air tickets to their home country every two years.
Part-time / Visiting Housekeeper
- The easiest option for those who don't want the responsibility of sponsoring a visa.
- Many are on domestic worker visas sponsored by other families and work additional jobs.
- Agencies charge higher rates but handle all legality — good for short-term or temporary needs.
- Trusted part-time cleaners are often found through expat Facebook groups and community recommendations.
- Popular agencies: ServiceMarket, Homemaids, TaskUs Dubai.
Private Driver
- A private driver needs a UAE driving licence — if they have a licence from certain countries (UK, India, Pakistan) it can be transferred without a test.
- MOHRE registration and a standard contract are required.
- Most expat families who hire a driver do so to handle school runs, shopping and airport trips.
- Many share a driver between two families to split the cost — a common arrangement in expat compounds.
- Car provision is usually included — either the employer's car or a separately arranged vehicle.
The Visa Process: Step by Step
Sponsoring a domestic worker visa is straightforward once you know the steps. Many expats use a PRO (Public Relations Officer) or typing centre to manage the paperwork — costs are typically AED 500–1,000 for their service fee.
Check your eligibility
To sponsor a live-in domestic worker, you need a minimum salary of AED 25,000/month. Check your employment contract or bank statements.
Find your hire
Use a licensed domestic staffing agency (Dawn of a New Day, Domestic Helper Dubai, etc.) or expat community networks. Agencies offer guaranteed replacements if a placement doesn't work out.
Sign a MOHRE-approved contract
A standard domestic worker contract must be signed by both parties and registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Apply for the entry permit
Submit the visa application through ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) or via a PRO (Public Relations Officer) / typing centre. Takes 2–5 working days.
Medical test & Emirates ID
Once in the UAE, the domestic worker must pass a medical fitness test (health screening) and enrol for an Emirates ID. This typically takes 1–2 weeks.
Work visa stamped
After the medical clearance, the residency visa is stamped in the passport. Total process from offer to start: approximately 4–6 weeks.
Your Legal Obligations as an Employer
- ⚠Pay wages on time — MOHRE enforces a Wage Protection System (WPS) for domestic workers.
- ⚠Provide a safe working environment and adequate accommodation for live-in staff.
- ⚠Give one day off per week and 30 days annual leave per year after the first year.
- ⚠Pay for return air tickets to their home country every two years.
- ⚠Settle any end-of-service gratuity on termination (1 month per year of service).
- ⚠Renew the residency visa on time — overstay fines are the employer's responsibility.
- ⚠Do not confiscate passports — this is illegal in the UAE.
Trusted Agencies & Resources
Dawn of a New Day
Domestic staffing agency
Well-regarded for housekeeper and nanny placements. Offers replacement guarantees.
ServiceMarket
Online marketplace
Good for part-time cleaners and one-off services. Transparent pricing, no visa complexity.
Domestic Helper Dubai
Full-service agency
Handles the entire visa process. Higher fee but turnkey solution for busy families.
MOHRE (mohre.gov.ae)
Government body
Official source for contract templates, wage guidelines and worker rights information.
Patrick's Note
“Having a housekeeper changed our family's life in Dubai more than almost anything else. It allowed both of us to work full-time without the domestic juggle we were used to in London. The key is treating it as a proper employment relationship — sign the contract properly, pay on time, give them their day off. The best housekeepers stay for years and become genuinely part of the family. Don't rush the hiring decision and always take references.”
— Patrick, Founding Editor