The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) has reiterated its commitment to the protection of domestic workers in the UAE by implementing the Wage Protection System (WPS) as the official mechanism for salary disbursement. This electronic system enables employers to transfer wages through banks, exchange houses, and financial institutions authorised by the Central Bank of the UAE. By ensuring traceable and timely wage payments, the WPS offers legal assurance to both parties and helps prevent disputes related to non-payment or delays.

Under Article 15 of Federal Decree-Law No. (9) of 2022 concerning domestic workers, employers are legally obligated to pay monthly wages in UAE dirhams within 10 working days from the due date. Failure to comply with this provision may attract administrative penalties as per Ministerial Resolution No. (675) of 2022 and Executive Regulation No. (106) of 2022. In cases where wages remain unpaid for two consecutive months, MOHRE reserves the right to suspend the employer’s file. Employers are deemed late in payment if wages are not processed through the WPS within one month from the contractual due date.

As of April 1, 2025, the WPS has been made mandatory for five specific job categories: Private Trainer, Private Teacher, Home Caregiver, Private Representative, and Private Agricultural Engineer. While its use remains optional for other roles such as Housekeeper, Sailor, Nanny, Cook, and Guard, employers are encouraged to adopt the system proactively to ensure transparency and avoid future liabilities. Registration requires the Emirates IDs of both the employer and the domestic worker, along with onboarding through an authorised WPS agent approved by the Central Bank.

Exemptions from WPS requirements are limited to specific scenarios, including workers with active absconding reports, those involved in pending labour disputes, and new workers during the initial 30 days of employment. MOHRE continues to notify employers regularly about their legal obligations and the necessity of WPS compliance, reinforcing the government’s broader aim of promoting fair treatment and legal protection for domestic workers throughout the UAE.