Start Off Right
Before diving into the search, take some time to clearly define what you are looking for. Identify the qualities, qualifications, and budget that suit your family. Once you have a better idea of the type of nanny you need, decide how they will fit into your daily routine. Think about whether you want a part-time or full-time nanny and whether they will be live-in or live-out. Some families prefer the privacy of a live-out arrangement, while others enjoy the flexibility of having someone available around the clock. Note that in Dubai, the only legal way to hire a part-time maid is through an agency.
Narrow It Down
Decide whether you want to find a nanny through a service or search independently. Using an agency can save you time and effort, as it provides someone when needed. Many nanny services have a minimum requirement, usually four hours per week, with rates ranging from Dh35 to Dh50 per hour. Agencies handle most of the paperwork since they sponsor the nanny. However, if you choose a monthly service, the cost can be higher, generally between Dh5,000 and Dh6,000 per month.
Tadbeer Centers (MOHRE) Direct Hire
If you decide to use a Tadbeer agency, there are many options available. Seek recommendations from other parents for reputable centers. Each Tadbeer center has its own pool of maids and offers various packages, such as one-time agency fees plus visa costs or monthly maid contracts. Tadbeer Excellence Center is a well-known agency that can supply maids directly; you can contact them at 04 347 4000.
The Direct Approach
Some parents prefer to hire a nanny directly. One great option is using Maid Finder, an online database that provides access to profiles of available maids and contact details for a one-time registration fee of Dh350 for one-month access. They also offer visa processing services for an additional cost. Facebook groups, such as "Real Mums Dubai," can be helpful resources for recommendations, especially from families relocating from Dubai who may be leaving a great nanny behind. Maid Finder interviews maids and nannies regularly and categorizes them based on nationality, such as Filipino, Indian, Sri Lankan, and Indonesian housemaids. You can filter the listings by location, such as maids in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or qualifications, like nannies.
Interviewing Candidates
Once you have shortlisted some candidates, it’s time for interviews. Prepare a list of questions in advance that are relevant to your needs, such as experience with young children or pets. Pay attention to whether candidates arrive on time and show interest in learning about your home. This is also an opportunity to introduce your family and see how well they interact with the potential nanny. Clearly outline the role, responsibilities, working hours, and compensation. If you find a suitable candidate, consider a paid trial for a day or two to assess how well you work together. For live-in nannies, prepare their living space to make them feel welcome.
Legal Requirements
After choosing the right nanny, it’s time to handle the legalities. If you are hiring through an agency, most of the paperwork will be managed for you. For direct hires, ensure you comply with UAE labor laws, which include rights for domestic workers such as at least one day off per week, 30 days of annual leave, medical insurance, and an annual return flight home. Additionally, you must reside in a two-bedroom home to hire a helper, even if the nanny is living out.
Making It Official
For direct hires, apply to Dubai’s immigration department (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigner Affairs) to sponsor the nanny's visa, which typically costs between Dh10,500 and Dh12,000 for a two-year contract. The head of the family, usually the husband, can sponsor the nanny if his monthly salary is at least Dh6,000. In some cases, women can also sponsor a maid, depending on their job and income. If your husband is sponsoring other family members, such as your child, the nanny’s sponsorship must be under his name. You can also visit a Tadbeer center to apply for the visa.
Hiring a nanny in Dubai requires careful planning and understanding of legal requirements, but with the right approach, you can find the perfect fit for your family's needs.