UAE shuts down 200 social media accounts over unlicensed domestic worker recruitment

In the first half of 2026, the UAE government took action against approximately 200 social media accounts that were promoting unlicensed recruitment services for domestic workers. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, in collaboration with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, shut down these accounts for breaching UAE employment law.

Authorities advised families to verify the legitimacy of advertisements before making any payments, and emphasized the importance of using only licensed recruitment offices. The ministry used field inspection teams, electronic monitoring, and artificial intelligence to detect and close unauthorised practices. Licensed recruitment offices are required to provide clear contracts and approved prices, ensuring workers meet all legal requirements.

Employers hiring domestic workers can either use a licensed recruitment agency or recruit directly, with the latter not providing the statutory guarantees offered by the former. When using a licensed agency, employers receive the protections outlined in the UAE's Domestic Workers Law, including suitable accommodation, food, work clothes, health insurance, and a two-year employment contract.

Direct recruitment, on the other hand, does not include these statutory guarantees. Misleading advertisements promoting unlicensed domestic worker services can be reported to the authorities by calling 600 590 000.