Process for Handling a Nanny/Maid’s Resignation in the UAE
If your nanny or maid resigns, you’ll need to follow legal and practical steps to ensure a smooth transition while complying with UAE labour laws and visa regulations.
1. Confirm the Resignation in Writing
Ask your nanny/maid to provide a resignation letter stating their last working day.
If they resign verbally, request a written confirmation to avoid misunderstandings. If the exchange is via WhatsApp, be sure to reply and include the final working day date for clarity.
“Noted. I will accept this message as notice of your resignation. Your last working day will be [Date]. We will proceed with your final settlement letter which will need your signature.” (See Point 6).
2. Check the Notice Period
The standard notice period under UAE law is 30 days, unless your contract states otherwise.
If they request an early release, discuss a mutually agreed exit plan.
3. Finalise Salary and Benefits
Calculate their final salary, including:
Unpaid wages
Overtime (if applicable)
Unused annual leave (if any)
Gratuity (for contracts over 1 year, based on UAE gratuity laws)
Deduct any outstanding advances or expenses (if agreed upon).
The daily wage calculation is the basic salary divided by 30. For gratuity, online calculators are available. This one is on the MOHRE website. Check out our article on gratuity for more information.
4. Cancel Their Visa & Work Permit
Apply for cancellation of their domestic worker visa through MOHRE (Dubai) or ICA (other emirates).
Ensure all outstanding fines (if any) are settled.
The nanny/maid may be given a grace period (usually 30 days) to exit the UAE or transfer their visa to a new employer.
5. Book Return Ticket (If Applicable)
If the nanny/maid is leaving the UAE, you may need to provide a one-way ticket to their home country (as per UAE labour laws).
Keep a signed confirmation of receipt for the ticket.
6. Obtain a Clearance Letter
Have your nanny/maid sign a final settlement document stating they have received all payments and benefits.
If possible, get the letter attested at the UAE Labour Office for added security.
7. Hand Over Any Personal Belongings & Cancel Bank Services
Allow time for them to collect their belongings.
If they have a bank account linked to salary, remind them to close it.
8. Inform Your Household & Find a Replacement
If you need a new nanny/maid, decide whether to:
Hire through a reputable agency. These need to be MOHRE approved. The full list of centres can be found here.
Find a replacement via word-of-mouth or online platforms and then,
Sponsor a new nanny under your visa or via agency.
For advice and guidance, see how The Nanny Whisperers can support at www.thenannywhisperers.com
9. Update Government and Legal Records
If they were insured under health insurance, it would be good practice to notify the provider about cancellation.
If the maid was live out in Abu Dhabi, you may need to inform Tawtheeq (for registered contracts) if applicable.
10. Exit Process or Transfer Assistance
If they are leaving the UAE, escort them to the airport (if needed) and ensure their visa is stamped as cancelled.
If they are transferring to a new employer, ensure their new sponsor processes the transfer legally.
Following these steps ensures a smooth, legal, and fair transition for both you and your nanny/maid. For more information or support on any of these steps, contact www.thenannywhisperers.com or WhatsApp +971 58 574 8505.
