How to Hire an Indian Maid and a Nanny Visa in Dubai

Dubai, a city known for its luxurious lifestyle and high standard of living, is home to thousands of expat families. With demanding work schedules and the need for help at home, many families consider hiring maids or nannies — particularly from India, due to shared cultural values, language compatibility, and strong work ethic.

If you're living in Dubai and planning to hire an Indian maid, it's essential to understand the legal procedures, visa requirements, and best practices involved. This blog walks you through everything you need to know about hiring an Indian maid and arranging a nanny visa in Dubai.

1. Understanding the Legal Framework

Dubai follows the UAE’s federal laws concerning domestic workers. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) regulates employment and visa procedures for domestic helpers. Domestic workers include maids, nannies, cooks, drivers, and gardeners.

In 2017, the UAE introduced Federal Law No. 10, providing improved legal protections for domestic workers, including limits on working hours, mandatory days off, and better dispute resolution mechanisms.

2. Who Can Sponsor a Maid or Nanny?

To hire a maid or nanny in Dubai, you must be a legal resident of the UAE and meet certain criteria:

• You must be a married couple, not a single person (in most cases).

• Your monthly income must be at least AED 25,000–30,000 (depending on your nationality and Dubai immigration requirements).

• You must live in a suitable residence that accommodates a live-in maid or nanny.

3. Two Main Ways to Hire an Indian Maid

There are two primary routes to hiring an Indian maid in Dubai:

a. Direct Sponsorship

You sponsor the maid or nanny directly. You are responsible for her visa, salary, accommodation, food, health insurance, and legal obligations.

b. Hiring Through a Licensed Agency

You can hire through a Tadbeer center or a licensed domestic help agency. This route is more expensive but offers convenience. The agency handles documentation, insurance, replacement guarantees, and more.

4. Direct Sponsorship: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to hire and sponsor an Indian maid directly:

Step 1: Find a Suitable Candidate

You can find a maid or nanny:

• Through personal references

• Online platforms (e.g., Dubizzle, Maids.cc)

• Agencies in India (licensed by the Indian government)

Be cautious and conduct proper background checks, preferably via references.

Step 2: Get an Offer Letter and Approval from MoHRE

• Draft a job offer detailing salary, job description, working hours, leave, and accommodation.

• Submit the job offer for pre-approval via the MoHRE or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).

Step 3: Apply for an Entry Permit

• Apply for a domestic worker entry permit through GDRFA (online or typing centers).

• Entry permits are valid for 60 days.

Step 4: Bring the Maid to Dubai

• Once the entry permit is approved, arrange for the maid's travel from India to Dubai.

• Ensure she has a valid passport, medical clearance from India (GAMCA-approved clinics), and meets immigration guidelines.

Step 5: Complete Medical Testing and Emirates ID

• Within 60 days of arrival, the maid must undergo a medical fitness test at an authorized center in Dubai.

• Apply for Emirates ID and biometric registration.

Step 6: Obtain Residency Visa and Labour Card

• Finalize her residence visa valid for 1-2 years.

• Apply for a labour card (domestic worker card), which includes details like salary and sponsor information.

5. Documents Required

Here are the key documents required for sponsorship:

For the Sponsor:

• Passport and UAE residence visa

• Emirates ID

• Salary certificate or labor contract

• DEWA (utility) bill or tenancy contract (Ejari)

• Marriage certificate (attested)

• Family photos

For the Maid:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Recent passport-size photos

• Pre-arrival medical test clearance

• Education certificate (if applicable)

6. Costs Involved

Hiring a maid involves the following approximate costs:

Note: Costs can vary based on service provider and optional services.

7. Salary Expectations for Indian Maids and Nannies

There is no fixed minimum wage for domestic workers, but based on market rates in Dubai:

• Indian Maid (non-certified): AED 1,200–1,500/month

• Experienced Nanny (English-speaking): AED 1,800–2,500/month

You are also responsible for:

• Food and accommodation

• Annual return flight home

• Medical insurance

• Weekly day off

• 30 days paid annual leave

8. Alternatives: Tadbeer Centers

Tadbeer is a government-backed service launched in 2018 to regulate domestic worker recruitment.

Pros:

• No need for direct sponsorship

• Visa and documentation handled

• Trained and verified maids

• Easy replacement if needed

Tadbeer Pricing Models:

1. Temporary (Part-time) – AED 120–150 per day

2. Live-in on Tadbeer sponsorship – AED 3,500–5,000/month

3. Transfer to your sponsorship after 6–12 months – Additional one-time fee

9. Points to Consider

Cultural Fit:

Indian maids often share similar food preferences, language skills, and values with Indian expat families. However, ensure compatibility before committing.

Legal Compliance:

Avoid hiring maids on visit or tourist visas. It is illegal and can lead to fines or deportation.

Written Contract:

Always have a written contract stating duties, salary, working hours, and leave policies. This protects both you and the worker.

10. Final Thoughts

Hiring an Indian maid in Dubai can significantly ease the burden of household responsibilities and childcare. While the process involves paperwork and financial planning, the result can be a long-term, trustworthy household relationship.

Whether you go the direct route or through an agency like Tadbeer, ensure you comply with all legal requirements and treat domestic workers with respect and fairness. A happy, well-cared-for maid or nanny is often the unsung hero of a well-functioning household.