Guide

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Dubai Named As the Cleanest City in the World Once More

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

When Is the Next UAE Public Holiday? Eid Al Adha 2025 Dates Revealed

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in Dubai

An Enchanting Regency-Era Evening Awaits at Dubai's Bridgerton Candlelight Concert

Education

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Nurturing Compassionate Leaders: 8 Ways Dibber Preschools Prepares Your Child

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

What Are the Benefits of Academic Scholarships in Dubai?

Money

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

5 Signs You've Been Scammed Over the Phone, and What to Do Next

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

Home

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Choithrams Announces Launch of All-Women Operated Store in the UAE

Where to Order Same-Day Valentine's Day Flowers in the UAE

Car

These Are Dubai's New Public Parking Fees From April 2025

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Wellness

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Top 7 Scenic UAE Jogging and Running Routes

IVF in the UAE: Unmarried Non-Muslim Couples Are Allowed to Undergo IVF

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

If you hire illegal maids.....

103 posts / 0 new

Last post

Log in to post new content in the forum.

5452

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 14:26

A licensed agency for house sitting I assume? So I need a license to watch my neighbours house. Seems daft but OK I guess they're on their own from now on. Is there a licensed grocery packing agency? Does this mean voluntary work is also illegal? edited by Teabag on 22/03/2011 Why would you tip a bagger? Do you also tip the cashier and the stockboys? I would tip a bagger if they helped me out to my car with all my shopping and unloaded it into my car for me. Do you tip the cashier if she bags the stuff for you?

5452

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 14:26

This is what I am beginning to understand. It seems to be a question of perception. One neighbour can do a good deed for another but a maid can't. Sadly it comes down to a question of status. My friends maid is here and will be bored as sin in the holidays when her family are away. Our animals play well together and she would be happy to water my garden and feed all the animals but the perception is such that it would be considered illegal. She would do it without payment but I would feel awful not to be able to thank her in any way. Sad isn't it? Part of living here is accepting that human beings are not treated equally.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 14:23

This is what I am beginning to understand. It seems to be a question of perception. One neighbour can do a good deed for another but a maid can't. Sadly it comes down to a question of status. My friends maid is here and will be bored as sin in the holidays when her family are away. Our animals play well together and she would be happy to water my garden and feed all the animals but the perception is such that it would be considered illegal. She would do it without payment but I would feel awful not to be able to thank her in any way. Sad isn't it?

5452

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 14:04

It was just a question. I prefer to pack my own and thus don't tip baggers - but I have seen people do it. I also always ask for 100aed for the car at the gas station, I don't tip there either but I have seen people do it. I am trying to find out exactly what the definition of illegal is - where jobs merge into good deeds, payment into favours. It's a grey area. I think good deeds are ok. It is ok to receive a gift from someone because you helped them out. It is not legal, though, to ask someone else's maid to check up on your house because it will be perceived that you are paying her.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:52

It was just a question. I prefer to pack my own and thus don't tip baggers - but I have seen people do it. I also always ask for 100aed for the car at the gas station, I don't tip there either but I have seen people do it. I am trying to find out exactly what the definition of illegal is - where jobs merge into good deeds, payment into favours. It's a grey area.

5452

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:47

A licensed agency for house sitting I assume? So I need a license to watch my neighbours house. Seems daft but OK I guess they're on their own from now on. Is there a licensed grocery packing agency? Does this mean voluntary work is also illegal? edited by Teabag on 22/03/2011 Why would you tip a bagger? Do you also tip the cashier and the stockboys?

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:40

A licensed agency for house sitting I assume? So I need a license to watch my neighbours house. Seems daft but OK I guess they're on their own from now on. Is there a licensed grocery packing agency? Does this mean voluntary work is also illegal? If, say, you were given lunch as a thank you for example - is that payment and thus makes the work illegal? I am still not clear where the line is. You can work for free but not take payment but are thank you gifts not payment of a sort? And if not, why can a maid not mind the house of a neighbour? edited by Teabag on 22/03/2011 <em>edited by Teabag on 22/03/2011</em>

3804

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:35

I am still confused. If you watch someone's house/pets/plants as a favour - that's ok If you watch someone's house/pets/plants but are paid - that's illegal. Ok If you watch someone's house/pets/plants and get a gift as a thank you - that's what? I have never considered keeping an eye on my neighbour's house to be a job. I suppose I shall have to reconsider. And the grocery guys? Anyone? Am I illegally paying someone not in my employ? And the petrol guys? If I pay for the petrol but then tip - have I illegally paid someone? Where is the line?? Unless you're using a licensed agency.

230

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:34

I can see that it is illegal but is it fair?????????? To keep someone 'locked up' incase they go and work for a little extra seems inhumane. Just because it is the law, does it make it right???? Maybe, just maybe, one day there will be protests for the bizarre rules against certain sector of workers. Thank god that I was not born into a maid's world.

5499

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:23

if you tip the gas station workers, the owners take it at the end of the day. Seriously? Once company told its attendants that they are not allowed to accept tips - was in the news a few years ago. I was looking at the guys in my local gas station recently and they don't have pockets in their trousers or shirts. The only place they can put money is in the bumbags supplied by the company.

5499

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:21

if you tip the gas station workers, the owners take it at the end of the day. Hence why most have no pockets in their uniforms?

1029

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:21

if you tip the gas station workers, the owners take it at the end of the day. Seriously?

vero possumus37927

876

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:19

if you tip the gas station workers, the owners take it at the end of the day.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:18

I am still confused. If you watch someone's house/pets/plants as a favour - that's ok If you watch someone's house/pets/plants but are paid - that's illegal. Ok If you watch someone's house/pets/plants and get a gift as a thank you - that's what? I have never considered keeping an eye on my neighbour's house to be a job. I suppose I shall have to reconsider. And the grocery guys? Anyone? Am I illegally paying someone not in my employ? And the petrol guys? If I pay for the petrol but then tip - have I illegally paid someone? Where is the line??

3804

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:13

I would imagine one maid per household, renewed every year generates a decent cash flow. Why would the govt want to change that? I think you've pretty much hit the nail on the head - it's always about money and how much can be squeezed out of people.

2222

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:13

you should also take into account that if your mind is doing part time work, she will most likely be paying either the watchmen / security guards in some way or other to be "allowed" to do this.

3804

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:12

Bahrain allows part-time maids and I can't see why the practice can't flourish here. It would certainly solve a lot of problems.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:11

Fairycakes - I am not planning anything illegal - I am trying to find out where the line is!!

5499

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:10

I would imagine one maid per household, renewed every year generates a decent cash flow. Why would the govt want to change that?

654

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:10

Bahrain allows part-time maids and I can't see why the practice can't flourish here. The rules for responsibility cannot change. This market is a prime target for human trafficking and they would conceal it through this and the courts would have to then start cases of the burden of proof as to whose idea it was for the person to work five jobs. They also can't change because taxes aren't paid. If they bring in tax it will change. The only reason it doesn't matter in other countries is because the g'ment still makes an income from the taxes. Hence tax evasion being the big issue. They are also making employers responsible for their maids full stop. Because while one may only focus on the human detainee issue, there are also the issues of human solicitation and, as I said, trafficking - having them work for nothing People need to understand why legislation has been formed and respect the reasoning behind it. Not just assume that the people who've made it, most of whom are both educated and have the greatest understanding of the social, political, cultural and economic situation in the country, are idiots and don't know what they're doing because we've formulated a better idea, an idea that suits our personal needs better.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:10

So if I just brought her back something really nice from my holiday am I still acting illegally? And what about the grocery guys - is tipping illegal - it's the same thing?

fairycakeyumm21878

2239

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:10

We originally had a full time maid. Now the kids are grown and I was delighted not to have to have the extra hands. For a few years we have had friends who have been here for the summer come over and look after the dogs and the house. This is the first year that everyone is away simultaneously - after 12 years with animals. It is still possible someone will be in town, it's just such a drag to get someone to come over when there is a maid we know and trust next door who is here anyway - what a palaver!! Unbelievable after reading this whole thread and all the other threads you are going to encourage your neighbours maid to work illegally! She could loose her job be banned and u both maybe fined. People that encourage this behaviour are just as wrong as the maids themselves. You will be breaking the law!

833

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:09

I don't understand why it is illegal for a maid to work for someone else too. A few of my friends have full-time live in maids who would easily have time to work for me too and earn some extra money. It would benefit them financially and me personally as I find dealing with the cleaning agencies tedious and am also worried about how much of the money that I pay the agency actually goes to the maid. However after all the horror stories I am hearing I don't want to put a sponsor family or my own at risk like that.

vero possumus37927

876

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:05

teabag. you decide with your neighbour, if she can be discrete. Just be ready for worst case.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:04

We originally had a full time maid. Now the kids are grown and I was delighted not to have to have the extra hands. For a few years we have had friends who have been here for the summer come over and look after the dogs and the house. This is the first year that everyone is away simultaneously - after 12 years with animals. It is still possible someone will be in town, it's just such a drag to get someone to come over when there is a maid we know and trust next door who is here anyway - what a palaver!!

3804

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 12:59

sorry to say this, but did you not consider this before you got a pet, or have things changed? Dealing with pets whilst you're on holiday is easy. So many option, kennels, pet sitters, get a friend to come and stay in the house etc etc.

vero possumus37927

876

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 12:55

sorry to say this, but did you not consider this before you got a pet, or have things changed?

3804

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 12:54

Great - strangers in my house. Fantastic! They're a reputed agency, that many people on here have used. All are professional people with a love for animals.

fairycakeyumm21878

2239

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 12:53

yep rec homely petz, and they are experienced dog handlers unlike maids.Dont ask your friends maid if u get caught u will both be in trouble.

211

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 12:53

Great - strangers in my house. Fantastic! That sounds harsh - sorry - I appreciate the suggestion, thanks anyway! <em>edited by Teabag on 22/03/2011</em>

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Best educational summer camps for teenagers in Dubai: MDX Summer Camps

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Real Madrid World Dubai - Summer Offer AED 199 per ticket

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

Scholarship opportunities at the Swiss international Scientific School Dubai (SISD)

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

UAE president announces 2025 will be the 'Year of Community' in the emirates

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

List of confirmed UAE public holidays in 2025

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Dubai's gravity-driven tunnel to reduce flood risks by 700%

Pictured: Flooded roads from the record-breaking storm that hit Dubai in April 2024.

Dubai Flood Risk to Be Cut Down by 700% With New Tunnel

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai for busy moms

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai: Self-Care Recommendations for Busy Moms

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

E-scooters are no longer banned on the Dubai Metro stations and trains

RTA Finally Lifts E-Scooter Ban From Dubai Metro

Spa packages at Saray Spa in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Step Into the Ultimate Relaxation Bliss With Saray Spa's Pampering Packages

How to book Dubai taxi through WhatsApp

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE

Soak Up the Summer With the Ultimate UAE Staycation Special

RTA Dubai flying taxi official launch date

Image credit: Joby Aviation.

RTA Finally Confirms Launch Date of Dubai's Flying Taxis

Are "own visa" Domestic Workers legal in the UAE?

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE