The United Arab Emirates ordered the closure of 12 unlicensed domestic worker recruitment agencies operating without licences, the Ministry announced on Wednesday after routine inspections. The move enforces recruitment laws and protects workers and employers.
Table of Contents
Official Statement
According to the ministry, inspectors found the 12 offices recruiting domestic workers in breach of UAE labour regulations. The statement said the offices were operating without the legally required permits and failed to meet administrative obligations. The ministry added that the cases against the unlicensed domestic worker recruitment agencies have been referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal action. Coordination with Economic Development Departments across the Emirates has begun to ensure enforcement. The ministry urged all recruitment operators to comply with licensing requirements and administrative rules. Investigations remain ongoing.
Violations Recorded in 2025
MoHRE reported that during oversight activities in 2025, a total of 300 violations were detected across 57 domestic worker recruitment offices nationwide. The recorded breaches ranged from licensing lapses to administrative non-compliance with recruitment rules. The ministry stressed that these findings formed the basis for the recent enforcement measures and legal referrals.
Digital enforcement
The ministry also noted earlier action this year against unauthorized online activity. Authorities closed 230 social media accounts that were advertising domestic worker services without proper licensing, following coordination with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority. Those removals formed part of a broader effort to curb illegal recruitment channels.
