In February 2025, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) took firm action against 22 domestic worker recruitment offices, imposing fines and administrative measures for 37 violations of the Federal Decree-Law Concerning Domestic Workers. The primary violation? These offices failed to refund recruitment fees to employers within the legally mandated two-week period. This crackdown follows a similar move in January 2025, where 14 agencies were penalized for 22 violations. As reported by MoHRE on March 27, 2025, this enforcement reflects MoHRE’s dedication to protecting the rights of employers and workers in the UAE’s domestic labor market. In this SEO-optimized article, we’ll explore the violations, legal framework, reporting options, and why using licensed agencies is crucial—complete with resources and FAQs.
What Happened? Details of the February 2025 Violations
In February 2025, MoHRE targeted 22 recruitment offices across the UAE, uncovering 37 violations. The main issue, as detailed by Gulf News, was:
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- Failure to Refund Recruitment Fees: These offices neglected to refund employers—either fully or partially—within the required two-week window. This period starts from:
- The date the domestic worker was returned to the agency.
- The date the worker was reported to have stopped working.
This isn’t an isolated incident. In January 2025, MoHRE fined 14 agencies for 22 similar violations, indicating persistent challenges in the sector. The ministry responded with fines, administrative penalties, and warnings of potential license revocation for severe cases.
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Legal Framework: Federal Decree-Law and Regulations
The Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 Concerning Domestic Workers governs recruitment agencies in the UAE. Key provisions include:
- Refund Obligation: Agencies must refund fees or provide a replacement worker within 14 days if contract terms are unmet.
- Standard Contracts: MoHRE-approved contracts must be signed, detailing duties, wages, and obligations like travel costs.
- Penalties: Violations result in fines, administrative actions, or license cancellation.
MoHRE’s robust monitoring ensures compliance, safeguarding employers’ finances and workers’ rights.
MoHRE’s Response: Actions and Warnings
MoHRE’s February 2025 actions were decisive:
- Enforcement Measures:
- Fines and administrative penalties were imposed on the 22 offices.
- Severe or repeat offenders face the risk of license cancellation.
- Public Advisory:
- Agencies were warned to follow regulations or face escalated consequences.
- Employers were urged to avoid unlicensed offices and unreliable social media platforms to protect their legal rights.
- Reporting Channels:
- Violations can be reported via MoHRE’s digital platforms or by calling the Labour Consultation and Claims Centre at 80084.
- Transparency:
- A list of licensed offices is available on MoHRE’s website: www.mohre.gov.ae.
The ministry also praised compliant agencies for their high-quality services.
Why This Matters for Employers and Workers
For Employers
- Financial Protection: Delayed refunds can cause significant losses. MoHRE’s actions ensure your money is safeguarded.
- Risk of Unlicensed Agencies: Dealing with unlicensed operators could strip you of legal protections, like refund rights.
For Domestic Workers
- Fair Treatment: Oversight guarantees timely wages and proper contracts.
- Secure Jobs: Licensed agencies offer legitimate, legally protected opportunities.
How to Stay Compliant: Tips for Employers
- Verify Licensing: Check an agency’s status on www.mohre.gov.ae.
- Use Standard Contracts: MoHRE-approved contracts reduce disputes.
- Report Issues Promptly: Call 80084 or use digital platforms to report violations.
- Avoid Unlicensed Sources: Skip social media or unofficial operators to protect your investment.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Why did MoHRE fine 22 domestic worker recruitment offices in February 2025?
MoHRE fined 22 offices for committing 37 violations of the Federal Decree-Law Concerning Domestic Workers, mainly for failing to refund recruitment fees owed to employers within the legally mandated two-week period after a worker’s return or reporting of discontinuation.
What happens if a recruitment office repeatedly violates the law?
MoHRE has warned that repeated or serious violations can lead to cancellation of the office’s license, along with other legal and administrative penalties.
How can employers report a non-compliant domestic worker recruitment office?
Employers can report violations by contacting the Labour Consultation and Claims Centre at 80084 or by using MoHRE’s official digital platforms, available via their website www.mohre.gov.ae
Read this article on how to report violations.
What risks are there in dealing with unlicensed domestic worker recruitment offices?
Dealing with unlicensed offices or social media advertisements for domestic worker services could result in losing legal protections and financial risks, as such transactions are not covered by the regulations enforced by MoHRE
Where can I find licensed domestic worker recruitment offices in the UAE?
A full list of licensed offices is available on the Ministry’s official website: MoHRE Licensed Offices
What is the two-week refund rule?
Under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, agencies must refund fees within 14 days of a worker being returned or reported absent.
What is Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022?
It’s the UAE law regulating domestic workers, ensuring refunds, fair contracts, and worker protections.
Conclusion: Compliance is Non-Negotiable
MoHRE’s February 2025 crackdown on 22 domestic worker recruitment offices for 37 violations—primarily delayed refunds—underscores a clear message: adherence to Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 is mandatory. Following a similar action in January, the ministry remains steadfast in upholding employer and worker rights. Employers should rely on licensed agencies listed at www.mohre.gov.ae and report issues to 80084. Workers gain a safer, more transparent job market. Share this article and let us know your thoughts—let’s keep the discussion alive!
