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The UAE’s official government platform has published a list specifying 19 occupations that fall within the scope of the domestic workers law. This clarification comes under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 as amended which establishes a regulatory framework for the recruitment and employment of domestic helpers. The move aims to delineate responsibilities for employers and recruitment agencies while outlining rights for the workers involved.
According to the platform the designated occupations range from traditional domestic roles to specialized positions reflecting the country’s cultural heritage and modern needs. The complete list comprises housemaid sailor guard shepherd jockey tamer falcon care-taker worker housekeeper cook nanny or babysitter farm worker or grower gardener personal trainer or coach private tutor home nurse personal assistant private agricultural engineer and personal or family driver. Each of these categories is now explicitly covered by the legislation’s provisions on working conditions and protections.
Domestic workers in the UAE are entitled to a series of benefits as per the federal law the government platform reported. These include payment of wages through the approved system a weekly day off annual leave of 30 days and coverage for medical expenses. The regulations also mandate suitable living accommodations and prohibit any form of discrimination among workers.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation licenses recruitment agencies and handles complaints related to domestic worker employment. In instances where mediation fails cases are escalated to the courts for resolution according to official guidelines. This structured approach supports consistent application of the law across the emirates.
Federal Decree Law No. 21 of 2023 introduced amendments to strengthen certain aspects of the original 2022 decree a government assessment found. The updated provisions reinforce wage protections and agency oversight in the domestic labour market. Ministerial resolutions have further detailed implementation mechanisms for these occupations.
With a substantial expatriate population employed in domestic capacities the defined list assists in standardizing practices throughout the country according to available government data. The law sets the minimum employment age at 18 years and provides pathways for workers to address grievances directly with authorities. Such measures contribute to the overall governance of the sector.
