The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has issued a stern warning against the exploitation of work permits and the recruitment of domestic workers without proper authorization. This comes as part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with labor laws and protect the rights of workers in the UAE.
In a recent announcement, the Ministry highlighted that using work permits for purposes other than those specified can lead to hefty fines ranging from 50,000 to 200,000 dirhams. This warning follows the ministry's actions against 22 recruitment agencies that were found to have committed 37 violations of labor laws in February 2025 alone.
According to the Ministry, these violations included failing to refund all or part of the recruitment fees to employers within the stipulated two-week period after a domestic worker is returned to the agency or after reporting a worker's absence. The Ministry emphasized that it will take strict legal and administrative measures against non-compliant agencies, potentially leading to the revocation of their licenses.
In a bid to bolster regulatory compliance, the Ministry has been actively monitoring recruitment agencies, having identified 14 agencies with similar violations in January 2025, which resulted in 22 recorded infractions. The Ministry urges employers to report any misconduct by recruitment agencies through its official channels, including the legal consultation center at 80084.
Furthermore, the Ministry cautioned against engaging with unauthorized recruitment agencies or unverified social media pages that promote domestic worker services, as this may result in the loss of legal rights for employers and workers alike. For those seeking legitimate recruitment services, the Ministry provides a comprehensive list of authorized agencies on its official website, www.mohre.gov.ae.
In addition to these measures, the Ministry is also promoting the Ehsan platform, a significant digital initiative aimed at enhancing charitable contributions and providing assistance to those in need. Launched by the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA), Ehsan facilitates a direct connection between donors and beneficiaries, making it easier for individuals to offer support or receive help, particularly in areas like debt relief, health, and education.
The Ehsan platform employs artificial intelligence to showcase cases in need, thus fostering transparency and trust between donors and recipients. Users can register on the platform by visiting ehsan.sa, entering their personal information, and activating their accounts through a verification code sent to their mobile devices. Once registered, users can browse available cases or submit their own requests for assistance.
With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive reporting features, Ehsan is becoming an essential tool for social solidarity in Saudi Arabia, allowing for a seamless experience in charitable giving and receiving.
In a related development, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has also made headlines by announcing new policies aimed at modernizing the workforce. One of the most notable changes includes the introduction of a four-day work week, which aims to improve work-life balance for employees across various sectors.
Additionally, the Ministry has officially allowed females under the age of 17 to drive cars under specific conditions, marking a significant step towards gender equality in the region. These reforms are part of a broader strategy to enhance the quality of life for residents and promote a more inclusive society.
As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve, these initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering a fair and transparent environment for both workers and employers. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation remains dedicated to enforcing labor laws and ensuring that all parties involved in the employment process are treated with respect and fairness.
In conclusion, the Ministry's proactive measures against recruitment agencies and its support for platforms like Ehsan showcase a dual approach to improving labor rights and enhancing the charitable landscape in the region. As these changes unfold, they promise to reshape the future of work and social support in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
