The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has implemented strict enforcement actions against recruitment agencies failing to meet their legal obligations. In February 2025, 22 domestic worker recruitment offices faced penalties for refusing to refund recruitment fees to employers.
Key Violations and Penalties
The ministry identified 37 distinct violations related to domestic worker regulations. These infractions primarily involved:
- Failure to refund complete recruitment fees
- Partial refund violations
- Non-compliance with the mandatory two-week refund period
The refund period begins from either:
- The date of the domestic worker’s return to the recruitment office
- The date when work cessation was reported
Legal Framework and Compliance
The MoHRE has emphasised its commitment to maintaining high standards in the recruitment sector. The ministry’s approach includes:
- Implementation of monetary penalties
- Potential license cancellation for serious offences
- Regular monitoring of agency operations
- Strict enforcement of recruitment regulations
Protection for Employers
The ministry has established multiple channels for reporting violations:
- Digital platforms
- Dedicated hotline: 80084
- Official complaint mechanisms
Important Guidelines for Employers
The MoHRE advises employers to:
- Work exclusively with licensed recruitment agencies
- Avoid engaging with unofficial social media platforms
- Verify agency credentials through the MoHRE website
- Keep documentation of all transactions
- Report violations promptly
Recent Enforcement History
This action follows similar measures taken in January 2025, where 14 recruitment agencies faced legal and administrative penalties. The consistent enforcement demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to regulating the domestic worker recruitment sector.
Accessing Licensed Agency Information
Employers can access a comprehensive list of licensed recruitment agencies through:
- The official MoHRE website
- Government service centres
- Verified digital platforms
Protecting Legal Rights
The ministry emphasises that engaging with unlicensed agencies risks:
- Loss of legal protection
- Financial losses
- Potential legal complications
- Violation of worker rights
This article was published on 27 March 2025
JobXDubai 
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