What must a UAE employer provide a live-in domestic worker?

Under the UAE's Federal Decree-Law on Domestic Workers, the employer of a live-in maid, nanny or driver carries specific duties beyond paying wages. As a general rule, the employer must provide suitable accommodation, food and access to medical care unless the contract expressly provides otherwise, must pay the agreed wage on time, and must treat the worker with dignity and not subject them to forced labour. The employer also cannot confiscate the worker's passport or personal documents. Recruitment must be arranged through a licensed Tadbeer centre, and the relationship must be governed by the unified MOHRE-registered contract that records exactly what the household provides. The precise scope of each obligation — and any items that can be varied by agreement — is set by the decree and its executive regulations, so confirm the current detail with MOHRE rather than relying on custom or verbal understandings. Putting everything in the registered contract protects both sides. For tailored advice on drafting or reviewing these terms, you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI.