Family guide

Questions to ask before hiring a domestic worker in the UAE

Hiring starts with a clear description of the work your household needs. The service arrangement, documents and formal steps depend on the individual case. Use this guide to prepare questions and review the agreement before making a decision.

By
INAYA Domestic Workers Editorial Team
Published
Updated
Family discussing domestic worker hiring questions with an adviser.

1. Define the work and the arrangement

List the duties, preferred schedule, location and any language or experience requirements that matter to your household. Separate essential requirements from preferences so that the discussion stays focused on the actual role.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) describes traditional, temporary and flexible recruitment arrangements. Ask which arrangement applies to the option being discussed, who employs the worker and what period the proposed agreement covers. Do not assume that the same procedure or cost applies to every arrangement.

2. Discuss available options and obtain the terms

Share your requirements with the service provider and ask what can actually be offered for your emirate and requested dates. Review the individual worker profile and the duties proposed for that person; a job title alone does not establish suitability.

Before confirming, request a written explanation of the service scope, period, price components, payment schedule and conditions for changes, support or replacement. INAYA publishes starting monthly, all-inclusive Essential and Signature packages; the duties and individual terms still need confirmation for your selected option.

  • Does the provider’s legal name and physical office match its official contact channels? Verify current licence information through the relevant authority rather than an old document or a similar business name.
  • Which experience is documented in this individual profile, and which duties have actually been agreed?
  • Who employs the worker, which written contracts apply, and who handles each official step?
  • Where are cancellation, refund and replacement terms recorded? Review the applicable policy without assuming an automatic entitlement.

3. Review the contracts and official process

MOHRE’s current domestic-worker employment-contract service lists a contract signed by both parties among its required documents. Read the terms applicable to your arrangement before signing, ask for a copy and confirm which official service applies to your case.

Confirm with the provider which ministry, identity, residence, medical and insurance steps apply to your case. Requirements can differ by employer status and arrangement. Use current MOHRE instructions for the formal application rather than assuming a checklist from another case is complete.

4. Keep a clear record after confirmation

Keep copies of the confirmed agreement, payment details and the contact channel for follow-up. If a detail changes, ask for the revised term in writing. Raise questions about the agreed duties or service promptly so both sides can refer to the same record.

For an INAYA enquiry, the website’s booking form prepares details locally and does not send an application. Contact the team by phone or WhatsApp to discuss the request and confirm the next step.