The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has intensified its nationwide campaign against illegal domestic worker recruitment, closing 12 unlicensed offices and shutting down 230 social media accounts found to be operating in violation of federal regulations.
In coordination with the Economic Development Departments across the country, the ministry confirmed that the 12 offices were involved in recruiting domestic workers without obtaining the necessary licences. The cases have been referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal action.
300 violations detected in 2025
According to a WAM report, MoHRE also detected 300 violations committed by 57 domestic worker recruitment offices during 2025.
In a press statement, the ministry said it would take legal, administrative and financial measures against non-compliant offices. These penalties include fines and possible licence cancellation in cases of repeated offences.
Read more-UAE labour ministry shuts down domestic worker recruitment agency in Ajman
The action forms part of the ministry’s broader oversight strategy aimed at regulating the domestic worker recruitment sector and protecting the rights of employers, families and workers.
230 illegal social media accounts shut down
Earlier, on February 11, MoHRE announced the closure of 230 social media accounts over the past year that were promoting domestic worker recruitment services without proper authorisation. The shutdown was carried out in cooperation with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
The ministry said the account holders had failed to obtain the required licences and were not affiliated with any authorised recruitment offices. Officials stressed that such activity constitutes a clear violation of the Domestic Workers Law.
MoHRE reaffirmed its commitment to strict oversight through what it described as an integrated field and digital regulatory system designed to safeguard the legal rights of all concerned parties while ensuring high-quality and competitive services for employers and Emirati and resident families.
The ministry commended TDRA’s cooperation in shutting down illegal online accounts, noting that the collaboration reflects unified government efforts to combat violations in the sector.
Call to employers and families
In its statement, MoHRE urged employers and families across the UAE to deal only with licensed domestic worker recruitment offices. It also called on the public to report negative practices or misleading social media advertisements by contacting 600590000 or by reviewing the list of licensed offices available on its official website at www.mohre.gov.ae.
The ministry warned of serious legal and practical consequences for those who engage with unlicensed recruiters. These risks include the potential loss of legal rights and non-compliance with mandatory procedures such as medical examinations and background checks, which could pose safety concerns for families.
Licensed recruitment offices, the ministry noted, operate under clearly defined service standards and approved pricing structures. They are required to provide trained and qualified workers who are prepared to deliver services in a safe and professional manner.
The latest enforcement measures underscore the UAE’s zero-tolerance approach toward unlicensed recruitment activities and its continued efforts to ensure transparency, compliance and protection for all parties involved.