The Wages Protection System (WPS) was designed for companies and their employees. But Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 introduced specific salary requirements for domestic workers. Here's what applies to household sponsors.
Are Domestic Workers Covered by WPS?
The standard WPS (administered by the Central Bank for commercial employers) does not apply to individual household sponsors. Domestic workers employed by households are covered separately under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, which is administered by MoHRE.
What the Law Requires for Salary Payment
Monthly salary must be paid on time
The contract must specify a payment day, and the sponsor must pay on or before that date.
Payment must be documented
MoHRE recommends paying by bank transfer, card or cheque — methods that create a paper trail. Cash is permitted but harder to prove.
Disputes can be filed with MoHRE
If a worker claims non-payment, MoHRE can investigate. Sponsors should keep proof of every payment.
Minimum wage guidance
There is no nationally mandated minimum wage for domestic workers in UAE, but many nationalities' countries of origin require contracts to specify a minimum salary.
How to Get Proof of Payment
MoHRE and UAE courts require evidence of salary payment in case of disputes. Best practices:
- Pay by bank transfer — you get an automatic receipt and bank statement
- If paying cash, use a signed salary acknowledgement form each month
- Keep records for at least 2 years after the employment ends
- ManzilZen's salary tracker logs every payment with date, amount, and method
What Happens If Salary Is Delayed?
⚠️ Violation of Federal Law
Under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, persistent salary delays are a violation. The worker has the right to file a complaint with MoHRE, which can mediate or refer the case to court. Sponsors found in violation face fines and reputational consequences with future visa applications.
Requirements governed by MoHRE under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022. Always verify current regulations.