Securing a maid visa in Abu Dhabi is a process that requires careful attention to legal procedures, documentation, and compliance with the UAE’s domestic labor laws. Whether you are a family relocating to Abu Dhabi or a long-term resident seeking household assistance, hiring a maid through the correct legal channels ensures both you and the domestic worker are protected and respected under the law.
The UAE government, through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), has set clear regulations for hiring domestic workers, including maids. To make the process easier and legally sound, here are the top 7 tips for securing a maid visa in Abu Dhabi:
1. Understand the Legal Requirements
Before initiating the maid visa process, it’s crucial to understand the legal eligibility criteria for sponsorship. In Abu Dhabi, only certain categories of residents are allowed to sponsor a domestic worker:
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The sponsor must be a family (individual sponsorship is allowed only under specific exceptions).
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The family’s monthly income should typically meet the minimum threshold set by authorities (generally around AED 25,000 or more).
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The sponsor must live in appropriate housing capable of accommodating an additional household member.
If you meet these criteria, you can move forward with confidence. Make sure to also check for any recent regulatory updates as rules can evolve.
2. Choose Between Direct Hiring and Tadbeer Centers
In Abu Dhabi, you can hire a maid either directly from their home country or through Tadbeer centers, which are government-authorized service providers that facilitate the recruitment and employment of domestic workers.
Direct Hiring:
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Requires more paperwork and coordination with embassies, airlines, and UAE authorities.
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You take full responsibility for arranging the maid’s visa, health insurance, and entry permits.
Tadbeer Hiring:
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Offers a more streamlined, legally compliant, and transparent process.
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Tadbeer centers handle the recruitment, background checks, documentation, and even training.
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Costs may be slightly higher, but you avoid the complications of navigating international recruitment laws on your own.
If you want peace of mind and faster processing, Tadbeer is often the more convenient option.
3. Prepare All Necessary Documents
Documentation is the foundation of a successful visa application. Here is a list of documents typically required to apply for a maid visa in Abu Dhabi:
For the Sponsor:
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Emirates ID
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Passport copy with residence visa
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Tenancy contract (registered with Tawtheeq)
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Salary certificate or labor contract from employer
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Utility bill as proof of residence
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Marriage certificate (if applicable)
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Birth certificates of children (if applicable)
For the Maid:
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Copy of passport (with at least 6 months validity)
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Passport-sized photographs (white background)
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Signed employment contract
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Medical fitness test results (upon arrival in UAE)
Make sure all documents are clear, valid, and translated into Arabic if necessary.
4. Comply with Medical and Insurance Requirements
Upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, the maid must undergo a mandatory medical fitness test at a government-approved center. This test usually includes:
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Blood test for infectious diseases (HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis)
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Chest X-ray
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Pregnancy test (in some cases)
If the worker passes the medical exam, you can proceed to apply for her Emirates ID and residency visa.
Additionally, you are required to provide health insurance coverage for the domestic worker. Make sure the insurance package includes basic medical services and is approved by UAE authorities.
5. Draft and Sign a Legal Employment Contract
A written employment contract is not just a formality—it’s a legal requirement and essential for clarity and protection. The contract should be in Arabic and English (or the maid’s native language) and must include:
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Job title and responsibilities
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Working hours and days off
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Monthly salary and payment method
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Leave policy (including annual leave and sick leave)
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Duration of the contract
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Gratuity and end-of-service benefits
The employment contract must be signed by both parties and submitted to MOHRE or the Tadbeer center. Ensure that the terms comply with UAE domestic labor laws to avoid disputes later on.
6. Understand the Sponsorship Responsibilities
Sponsoring a maid comes with specific legal responsibilities in the UAE. These include:
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Paying the agreed salary on time (monthly or as stated in the contract)
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Providing suitable accommodation, meals, and basic needs
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Covering medical expenses and health insurance
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Allowing rest days and paid annual leave
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Handling visa renewals, cancellations, or repatriation at end of service
Failure to meet any of these obligations can lead to fines, visa issues, or legal claims. Make sure you are fully prepared to meet these responsibilities financially and morally.
7. Renew the Visa and Keep Documents Updated
A maid visa in Abu Dhabi is typically valid for one or two years, depending on the terms agreed. It’s crucial to renew the visa before it expires to avoid fines or legal complications.
Here’s what you should do:
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Track the visa expiration date and begin the renewal process at least one month in advance.
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Renew the maid’s Emirates ID, health insurance, and employment contract as part of the process.
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Keep all documentation updated and accessible for inspection, especially during labor checks or disputes.
Additionally, if there is a change in your job, address, or financial situation, update this information with the appropriate authorities as it may affect your eligibility to continue sponsorship.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a part time maid in Dubai can significantly ease the pressures of managing household responsibilities, especially for working families or those with children. However, it’s not a casual transaction—it’s a legal commitment that requires ethical treatment, compliance with labor laws, and attention to detail.
By following the above 7 tips, you can navigate the maid visa process smoothly, avoid legal pitfalls, and ensure a fair, respectful employment relationship. Whether you choose the traditional sponsorship method or go through Tadbeer centers, planning ahead and adhering to regulations is the key to success.
Always stay updated with the latest rules from UAE authorities and seek professional assistance if you’re unsure at any stage. With the right approach, securing a maid visa in Abu Dhabi can be a straightforward and positive experience for both parties involved.
