The Domestic Worker’s Law in the United Arab Emirates outlines the rights and entitlements of individuals employed in private households, including housemaids, nannies, and other domestic helpers. Among these provisions, end-of-service gratuity stands as a crucial benefit for workers upon the completion of their employment contracts. In this guide, we delve into the eligibility criteria and the process of calculating gratuity for housemaids and domestic workers in the UAE for the year 2024.
Who is a Domestic Worker? Exploring Professions
Domestic workers encompass a diverse range of professions dedicated to supporting the operations of private households. These include housemaids, babysitters, security guards, drivers, tutors, and more. Their responsibilities may vary from household chores to caregiving for family members, such as children and the elderly.
Gratuity Entitlement as per UAE Domestic Worker Law:
According to the UAE Federal Law and regulations set forth by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), specific guidelines govern the calculation of gratuity for domestic workers:
- Article 26: Workers with at least one year of continuous service are entitled to gratuity payment, calculated at 14 days’ wage per year, excluding unpaid absences. Payment is made at the end of the contract or recalculated upon renewal.
- Article 27: Gratuity may be withheld if the worker resigns before contract completion or is terminated for unlawful conduct. Compensation may be required from the resigning worker or provided to the terminated worker, along with a return ticket.
- Article 28: Workers involved in criminal activities may forfeit salary and end-of-service compensation for the period of arrest or involvement.
How to Calculate Gratuity for Housemaids and Domestic Workers:
Calculating gratuity for housemaids and domestic workers follows a straightforward process facilitated by the MoHRE’s official website:
- Visit the MoHRE website and access the Domestic Worker Calculator service.
- Input relevant employment details, including contract dates, salary information, and reason for leaving.
- Specify allowances and additional factors, such as annual leave salary and work injury disability percentage.
- The calculator generates the total gratuity amount, which can be downloaded or printed for record-keeping.
Conclusion:
Understanding the intricacies of gratuity calculation empowers housemaids and domestic workers in the UAE to claim their rightful end-of-service benefits. By adhering to legal regulations and utilizing available resources, both workers and employers can ensure fair treatment and compensation in alignment with the law. If any challenges arise during the gratuity calculation process, seeking assistance from relevant authorities can provide clarity and resolution.