Illegal recruitment accounts have drawn renewed scrutiny as the UAE intensifies its crackdown on unauthorized labor services. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), in partnership with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), recently shut down 77 social media accounts operating without licenses.
These platforms, active during the first half of 2025, were engaged in promoting domestic worker recruitment services. However, they lacked official approval, violating federal labor laws that mandate proper licensing for employment mediation.
According to MoHRE, these illegal recruitment accounts posed serious risks to users. Individuals hiring workers through such means could lose vital legal protections. By contrast, licensed offices must comply with regulations that guarantee the rights of both employers and workers.
Therefore, the Ministry strongly advised citizens and residents to use only licensed recruitment agencies. MoHRE warned that engaging with illegal recruitment accounts could lead to fraud, lack of accountability, and absence of recourse in case of disputes.
Moreover, MoHRE urged the public to verify any employment service seen online. People can check an agency’s legitimacy by calling the Ministry’s call center (600590000) or visiting its official website (www.mohre.gov.ae), which lists all licensed domestic worker agencies.
Earlier in February 2025, MoHRE identified 55 illegal entities operating unlicensed labor activities across the UAE. These included unauthorized offices, websites, and five additional social media accounts. These operators were found offering job placements, labor importation, and recruitment services outside the legal framework.
In coordination with the TDRA, the Ministry took swift action. Authorities imposed financial penalties, enforced administrative restrictions, and referred offenders to the Public Prosecution for legal action. Additionally, they removed the blocked accounts from public access.
The Labor Relations Regulation Law strictly prohibits domestic worker recruitment without proper licensing from MoHRE. As enforcement increases, authorities continue to remind employers that following official channels ensures transparency and worker safety.
Ultimately, MoHRE reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding labor rights by eliminating illegal recruitment accounts and encouraging responsible hiring practices.
