Looking for a house maid job in Dubai? The work is steady, because many households in the city need help with cleaning, cooking and childcare. But the process is very different from applying for an office job, and it’s where most people get confused or, worse, scammed. This guide covers how hiring really works, what you can expect to earn, and what the law says you’re entitled to.
How house maid hiring works in Dubai
Most domestic workers in the UAE aren’t hired by replying to an ad and turning up for an interview. The usual routes are:
- Licensed recruitment centres. Tadbeer centres and other MOHRE-licensed agencies place workers with families. This is the safest route.
- Direct hire through a family you already know. The employer still has to arrange the visa and contract properly.
- Hotel and company housekeeping roles. These are different from household work. You join a company, with fixed shifts and a staff contract. See our hotel jobs in Dubai page.
A rule worth remembering: under UAE rules, the employer covers recruitment costs. If anyone asks you to pay for a job, a visa or an “interview fee”, walk away and report the listing.

Available Job Openings in UAE:
There are currently no vacancies.
What you need before you start
- A valid work visa, which the employer sponsors
- A medical fitness certificate
- A written contract that states your salary, duties, working hours and rest days
- Previous experience, though many families will train the right person
How much do house maids earn in Dubai?
Pay depends on experience, duties and whether you live in. As a rough guide, monthly salaries run from about AED 1,500 to AED 3,500. A live-in maid usually also gets accommodation and meals, which adds real value to the package.
| Role | Typical monthly pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General house maid | AED 1,500–3,000 | Cleaning, laundry, cooking |
| Nanny / maid with childcare | AED 2,750–3,900 | Experience with children matters |
| Hotel housekeeping | AED 1,850–4,000 | Company contract, set shifts |
| Part-time or hourly cleaner | AED 30–40+ per hour | No live-in accommodation |
Source for these figures: HelperEx · Yaya Middle East · Naukrigulf
Your rights as a domestic worker
UAE law (Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022) gives domestic workers real protections. These include:
- A paid day off every week
- Paid annual leave and rest hours each day
- Paid sick leave
- A written contract
- Your own passport and documents, which your employer shouldn’t hold
- End-of-service benefits when the contract ends
If something goes wrong, such as unpaid wages or being asked to work far beyond the agreed hours, you can file a complaint with MOHRE.
Honest talk: the hard parts
The work can mean long days, homesickness and the occasional dispute over pay or duties. A clear contract and a licensed agency lower the risk a lot. Learning a few basics about local customs also makes life easier for everyone in the house.


