Questions & Answers
Can my employer refuse to give me even one day off as a nanny in the UAE?
Hello,
I am a nanny of 1-and-a-half-year-old twins.
I asked my employer to have a day off, even once a month, but she didn’t allow me! I messaged her on WhatsApp, but she didn’t reply.
Last month, I talked to her husband to ask for a day off again. He told me that he would arrange it. Then I messaged him yesterday to have a day off on Monday, July 7, 2025, but he never saw my message.
What should I do?
Dear Questioner,
Thank you for reaching out!
Under UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 regarding Domestic Workers), you are legally entitled to at least one day off per week. Your employer must respect this right. Denying your weekly rest day without a valid reason is a violation of the law.
Since you’ve already tried to speak and message both your employers with no response, we recommend the following:
Keep copies of your messages as proof.
If they continue to ignore your request, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) by calling 600 590 000 or visiting a Tadbeer center near you.
If you need help with the complaint or are being mistreated, we can guide you through the process.
Best regards,
Mohammed Salah
Legal Consultant
Dear Client,
Under UAE law, nannies are entitled to at least one day off per week and must not work more than 12 hours a day, with at least 8 hours of continuous rest. If your employer is not allowing you any days off, this is against the law.
You should first try to speak with your employer again and politely remind them of your legal right to a weekly day off.
If they still refuse, you can contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to file a complaint and seek assistance.
If you need help with the process, let me know.
Best regards,
Thank you for reaching out and explaining your situation!
As a nanny working in a private household, you are entitled to basic rights under UAE law, including a weekly rest day.
Your request for even one day off per month is more than reasonable, and it’s concerning that your employer is not responding at all to your repeated messages.
In such cases, it’s important to take steps to protect your rights. You may file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, especially if you are working without a proper day off or if communication with your employer has completely broken down.
There is a formal process to raise these issues, and once filed, they usually call both parties to find a resolution.
Hello,
Under UAE Labour Law, domestic workers — including nannies — are entitled to at least one day off per week. Denying you this right is a legal violation.
Our legal center specializes in domestic worker cases and labor rights, and we are here to support you in claiming your legal entitlements professionally and confidentially.
You can contact us anytime via WhatsApp for free consultation or assistance.
We care about your rights — and we’re ready to help.
Here's what you can do:
Politely message again to document your request in writing.
If still ignored, you can file a complaint with MOHRE – Domestic Workers Section or through 80060.
You can also approach Tadbeer centers if your contract was issued through them.
