In June 2017, the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates approved a groundbreaking law aimed at safeguarding the rights of domestic workers. This legislation, known as Federal Law No. 10 of 2017, redefines and protects 19 specific occupations falling under the category of domestic work. Administered by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), these regulations mark a significant stride towards ensuring fair treatment and just practices within the domestic work sector.
Unveiling the Faces of Domestic Workers in Dubai
Under the umbrella of Federal Law 10, commonly referred to as the Domestic Workers Law, various occupations are recognized as domestic, including private housekeepers, sailors, concierge and security guards, housemaids, family drivers, valets, at-home horse groomers, at-home falcon trainers and groomers, domestic workers, private trainers, private tutors, nannies, domestic farmers, gardeners, private nurses, private agricultural engineers, and cooks.
Rights Accorded to Domestic Workers
In accordance with the Domestic Workers Law, domestic workers are entitled to a range of benefits, including timely salary payment, paid weekly rest days, daily rest hours, paid annual leave, provided medical insurance, sick leave, a return ticket home every 2 years, decent accommodation, provision of meals, and suitable work attire.
Dispute Resolution Mechanism
In cases of disputes, both employers and workers can file complaints with the MoHRE, initiating a two-week attempt at amicable resolution. If unsuccessful, the case proceeds to the judiciary.
Legal Prohibitions
The Domestic Workers Law unequivocally prohibits employment of minors, discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, or political opinion, sexual harassment, forced labor and human trafficking, exposure to physical harm, and assignment of tasks not covered by the employment contract.
Duties and Responsibilities of Domestic Workers
While domestic workers enjoy various rights, they are also expected to fulfill certain obligations, including performing assigned tasks diligently, adhering to social customs and public morality, maintaining confidentiality, notifying the Ministry of any change in residence, and aligning duties with the employer’s specifications.
Evolution in Hiring: TADBEER Centers
Traditionally, recruitment of domestic staff was handled by agencies. However, recent regulations have shifted this responsibility to TADBEER Centers under the MoHRE.
TADBEER Centers’ Role
These centers, regulated by the MoHRE, now oversee the entire process, from recruitment to contract training, visa applications, cancellation, and conflict resolution.
Sponsorship Options
Direct Sponsorship allows employers to sponsor domestic workers from outside the UAE directly, ensuring performance and loyalty for 180 days. Alternatively, TADBEER Sponsorship provides flexible services at a unified cost for all nationalities, simplifying the hiring process for employers.
Understanding the rights and responsibilities of domestic workers in Dubai is crucial for fostering a harmonious working relationship. The Federal Law No. 10 of 2017 lays the foundation for fair treatment, setting a standard that ensures both employers and domestic workers coexist with mutual respect and dignity. As we navigate the evolving landscape of domestic employment, adherence to these laws is not just a legal obligation but a testament to the commitment to a progressive and humane workplace.
At LPDS UAE we facilitate the entire recruitment process while respecting the rights of our Filipino staff.