UAE Domestic Worker Contract Renewals: What Employers Must Know in 2025

If you're a Dubai employer considering renewing your domestic worker's contract, you're navigating one of the most important decisions affecting your household operations. With new regulations and updated procedures in 2025, understanding the renewal process isn't just about compliance—it's about maintaining a stable, legal, and harmonious working relationship.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about renewing domestic worker contracts in the UAE, from legal requirements to practical timelines, ensuring you make informed decisions that protect both you and your domestic worker.

Legal Framework Governing Contract Renewals

The UAE domestic worker contract renewal system operates under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 Concerning Domestic Workers. This law establishes that employment agreements have a standard term of two years and may be renewed for the same period.

Key legal principles for renewals:

• Contracts must be renewed through official MOHRE channels
• Both employer and worker must agree to renewal terms
• Medical insurance coverage remains mandatory during renewal
• The worker must remain physically present in the UAE during renewal

Under current regulations, if both parties continue implementing the contract after expiry without formal renewal, the original contract automatically extends with the same conditions. However, this implicit renewal doesn't replace the need for proper documentation and official processing.

When to Start the Renewal Process

Start your renewal process 60–90 days before contract expiry to avoid any gaps in legal status. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) recommends beginning preparations well in advance, especially considering processing times and potential document requirements.

Critical timing considerations:

• Medical fitness tests must be current (typically valid for 6 months)
• Emirates ID renewal applications should be submitted simultaneously
• Insurance policies need renewal coordination
• Worker's passport must have sufficient validity

Processing typically takes 7–10 working days for MOHRE contract approval, but additional time may be needed for medical examinations and Emirates ID processing.

Required Documents for Contract Renewal

The MOHRE requires specific documentation for domestic worker contract renewals: Essential documents include:

• Colored photograph of the domestic worker
• Copy of worker's passport with sufficient validity
• Valid original Emirates ID of the employer
• Current medical insurance policy for the domestic worker
• Signed employment contract by both parties
• Copy of previous Emirates ID of the domestic worker (both sides)
• Valid medical fitness examination results

Additional requirements for Abu Dhabi and Dubai:

In these emirates, employers must provide adequate medical insurance coverage as part of the renewal process. This insurance must meet minimum coverage standards set by local authorities.

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

Step 1: Document Preparation

Gather all required documents and ensure they meet current validity requirements. Verify that the worker's medical fitness certificate is current and the passport has adequate validity.

Step 2: Online Application Submission

Log in using UAE Pass to access MOHRE's digital platform. Navigate to the domestic worker contract renewal service and complete the application form with accurate information.

Step 3: Fee Payment

Pay prescribed federal fees through approved payment channels. Keep payment receipts for tracking purposes.

Step 4: Application Review

Your application will be forwarded electronically to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security for verification. This automatic process checks compliance with all requirements.

Step 5: Addressing Shortfalls

If any documents are missing or insufficient, shortfalls will be reported to you for completion. Respond promptly to avoid delays.

Step 6: Final Decision

Approvals or rejections will be communicated via text message and email. Upon approval, you can proceed with Emirates ID renewal and other related processes.

Financial Obligations and Fees

Renewal costs in 2025 include:

• MOHRE contract renewal fees (federal charges)
• Medical fitness examination costs
• Emirates ID renewal fees
• Insurance premium renewals
• Administrative processing fees

Additional financial considerations:

If your domestic worker was recruited through a designated recruitment agency, specific fee structures apply for transfers to new employers during the contract term. These calculations become important if you're considering worker transfers rather than direct renewal.

Worker Rights During Renewal

Domestic workers maintain specific rights during the renewal process under UAE law:

Protected rights include:

• Weekly rest day (minimum one paid day off)
• Daily rest period of 8 hours minimum
• Annual leave entitlement of 30 days per year
• End-of-service gratuity rights
• Medical insurance coverage continuation
• Fair wage protection through official payment systems

Workers also have the right to:

• Receive a copy of the renewed contract
• Transfer to a new employer with proper procedures
• Refuse renewal terms and seek alternative employment
• File complaints through MOHRE channels

Common Renewal Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: Expired Medical Certificates

Solution: Schedule medical examinations 30 days before renewal to ensure current certification. Approved medical centers provide faster processing for domestic worker examinations.

Challenge 2: Insurance Coverage Gaps

Solution: Coordinate insurance renewal timing with contract renewal. Many providers offer seamless renewal services specifically for domestic worker coverage.

Challenge 3: Emirates ID Processing Delays

Solution: Submit Emirates ID renewal applications simultaneously with contract renewals. Use expedited services when available.

Challenge 4: Worker Reluctance to Renew

Solution: Discuss contract terms openly, address any concerns, and consider negotiating improved conditions within legal frameworks.

Alternatives to Contract Renewal

If renewal isn't suitable for your situation, consider these legal alternatives:

Worker Transfer

Your domestic worker can transfer to a new employer following proper procedures. The new employer typically pays associated fees and assumes contractual obligations.

Contract Termination

Either party may terminate the contract with proper notice. Employers must provide return tickets and pay all dues if termination isn't attributed to worker misconduct.

Recruitment Agency Replacement

If working with recruitment agencies, replacement worker options may be available under specific circumstances, subject to agency policies and fee structures.

Recent Changes in 2025

Significant updates affecting renewals in 2025:

The UAE Ministry has increased enforcement of domestic worker regulations, with 40 recruitment offices penalized for 140 legal violations in the first half of 2025. This crackdown affects the renewal process by:

• Stricter verification procedures
• Enhanced documentation requirements
• Increased penalties for non-compliance
• Better protection for worker rights

New procedural improvements:

• Streamlined digital processing through MOHRE platforms
• Faster dispute resolution for renewal-related issues
• Enhanced tracking systems for application status
• Improved communication channels for updates

Expert Tips for Smooth Renewals

Start Early

Begin renewal preparations 90 days before contract expiry. This provides adequate time for document gathering, medical examinations, and addressing any unexpected issues.

Maintain Good Records

Keep detailed records of:

• Contract dates and terms
• Payment histories
• Medical examination schedules
• Insurance coverage periods
• Worker performance and satisfaction

Communicate Openly

Discuss renewal intentions with your domestic worker well in advance. Address any concerns or desired changes to working conditions within legal parameters.

Use Professional Services

Consider working with licensed HR services or legal consultants familiar with domestic worker regulations. Professional assistance can streamline the process and ensure compliance.

Stay Updated

Monitor MOHRE announcements and regulatory changes that might affect your renewal timeline or requirements. Subscribe to official communication channels for updates.

Remember: Contract renewal is a mutual agreement. Both employer and worker must consent to renewal terms, and either party has the right to seek alternatives within legal frameworks.

Take Action Today

Don't wait until the last minute to handle your domestic worker contract renewal. The 2025 regulatory environment demands careful preparation and timely action.

Ready to navigate your contract renewal with confidence? Contact our expert team at ImadHR for personalized guidance on domestic worker contract renewals, MOHRE compliance, and comprehensive HR support services tailored for Dubai employers.

Call us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your domestic worker arrangements remain compliant, fair, and hassle-free throughout 2025 and beyond.