Living in Dubai comes with its unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to managing household help. One of the most challenging situations you might face is when your personally-sponsored nanny or maid absconds.
Whilst the consequences for them are serious, failure on your part to report them can mean equally serious consequences.
1. Legal Liability
If you do not report an absconded maid, you may be held legally responsible for any actions she takes while still under your sponsorship. This includes any illegal activities she might engage in.
2. Fines and Penalties
The UAE imposes strict penalties on sponsors who fail to report absconding domestic workers. You could face fines of up to AED 50,000.
3. Immigration Issues
Your own immigration status could be affected. Authorities may question your compliance with UAE laws, potentially impacting your ability to sponsor other domestic workers in the future.
4. Financial Loss
You may lose the security deposit you paid when sponsoring the maid. Additionally, you might have to bear the cost of repatriating the maid if she is found1.
5. Reputational Damage
Failing to report an absconded maid can damage your reputation, especially if the maid is involved in any criminal activities. This could affect your standing in the community and your relationships with other household staff.
6. Difficulty in Hiring New Help
Future hiring could become more challenging. Agencies and potential employees might be wary of working with someone who has a history of not reporting absconded workers.
Conclusion
To avoid these scenarios, it is crucial to report an absconded maid promptly. This not only protects you legally and financially but also ensures that you remain compliant with UAE laws.
Read our "Absconded Nanny / Maid: Reporting to Authorities" post for what steps to take.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First and foremost, stay calm. Ensure that the nanny or maid is indeed missing and not just delayed or unreachable temporarily. Check with friends, other nannies/maids or other household staff to confirm her whereabouts. Check her room and see if she has taken her personal belongings.
2. Report to the Authorities Immediately
It is crucial to report the absconding to the authorities as soon as possible. This is usually after they have been missing for 7 days and when you are unaware of their location and unable to contact them. You should file a complaint with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) within seven days of the maid going missing. This can be done at any Tasheel Centre or GDRFA branch or online.
3. Prepare Necessary Documents
When filing the report, you will need to login with your UAE Pass and provide your maid’s:
· Passport Number
· UAE ID Number
· Unified Number
· Name
· Date of Birth
· Nationality
4. Pay the Required Fees
There is a fee of AED 315 for filing the absconding report. If the maid is still in the country, you may also need to deposit the value of a one-way ticket to her home country.
5. Follow Up with the Authorities
After filing the report, you will be notified once the request has been completed. Applicants can follow up on their applications by visiting:
· MOHRE Smart App
· Call Centre 600590000
· Chabot
The authorities will investigate and, if the maid is found, she will be deported.
6. Avoid Hiring Absconded Maids
It is illegal to hire absconded maids in the UAE. Doing so can result in hefty fines of up to AED 50,000. Always ensure that any household help you hire is legally sponsored and has the proper documentation.
7. Review and Adjust Your Hiring Practices
To prevent future incidents, review your hiring practices. Ensure that you are providing a fair and respectful working environment. Clear communication and setting realistic expectations can help in maintaining a good relationship with your household staff. Visit The Nanny Whisperers for support with these.
Conclusion
While dealing with an absconding maid can be stressful, following the proper legal procedures can help mitigate the situation. Always stay informed about your responsibilities as a sponsor and ensure that you are compliant with UAE laws.
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