Dubai is a bustling cosmopolitan city where life moves fast, and many families—both local and expatriate—often need reliable childcare support. Hiring a nanny service in Dubai can be a great solution for parents who need assistance with their children while managing busy work schedules, business responsibilities, or household tasks. However, choosing the right nanny can be a daunting task, especially in a city with so many service providers and cultural expectations.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to hire a nanny service Dubai—from understanding your needs to finding trusted agencies and knowing the legal requirements.
Understanding your childcare needs
Before you begin the search for a nanny, it’s essential to identify exactly what you need. Every family has different requirements based on the age of the children, work schedules, and lifestyle. Ask yourself:
- Do you need a full-time, live-in nanny or part-time, live-out help?
- Is the nanny expected to do housework in addition to childcare?
- Do you need someone with newborn experience or someone who can help with school-aged children?
- Are language skills or educational qualifications important?
By defining your expectations early, you can narrow your search and communicate clearly with the nanny or agency.
Types of nanny services in Dubai
There are various types of nanny services available in Dubai to suit different family needs. The most common options include:
Live-in nannies
Live-in nannies stay in your home and are typically available for longer hours. They may also assist with additional tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and running errands. This is a common choice for families with very young children or working parents with long hours.
Live-out nannies
These nannies work during set hours and return to their own accommodation after work. They are ideal for families who need help only during the day or after school.
Part-time or temporary nannies
If you need help for a few hours a day or just for a short period—such as during a vacation or maternity recovery—part-time or temporary nanny services are a good option.
Specialized or trained nannies
Some nannies come with professional training in early childhood education, first aid, or even nursing. These are particularly suitable for parents who want structured learning for their kids or need a caregiver with medical knowledge.
Where to find reliable nanny services in Dubai
Finding a trusted nanny service in Dubai is crucial for your child’s safety and your peace of mind. Here are the most common ways to search:
Registered nanny agencies
There are many licensed nanny agencies in Dubai that offer vetted and trained professionals. These agencies handle background checks, reference verification, and can even replace the nanny if things don’t work out. Some reputable agencies provide nanny services with health insurance, contract management, and visa sponsorship.
Online platforms
Websites and apps like Dubizzle, Careem Care, and Help4u.today allow families to search for nannies based on location, experience, and availability. These platforms may also include reviews and ratings, giving you more insight into candidates.
Personal recommendations
Word-of-mouth referrals are highly valuable. Ask friends, colleagues, or neighbors if they can recommend someone trustworthy. Often, the most reliable nannies are found through people you know.
Social media groups
Facebook groups and local parenting forums like “Dubai Mums” and “Expat Women in Dubai” often have posts by families looking to connect with available nannies or domestic helpers.
Legal aspects of hiring a nanny in Dubai
Dubai has clear laws regarding domestic workers, including nannies. It’s important to ensure that everything is done legally and ethically.
Sponsorship
If you’re hiring a live-in nanny directly, you must sponsor her visa, which includes costs like medical tests, health insurance, and visa fees. Alternatively, hiring through an agency usually means the agency handles all legal requirements.
Employment contract
A legal employment contract should clearly state the nanny’s salary, working hours, duties, leave entitlements, and other benefits. Both parties should understand and sign the contract before employment begins.
Salary and benefits
The average monthly salary for a nanny in Dubai ranges between AED 1,800 to AED 3,500 depending on experience, nationality, and duties involved. In addition to salary, families are expected to provide accommodation (if live-in), meals, medical coverage, and annual leave.
Labour law and rest time
According to the UAE Domestic Workers Law, nannies are entitled to:
- One day off per week
- 12 hours of rest per day (including 8 consecutive hours of sleep)
- 30 days of paid annual leave
- Medical care and health insurance
- A return ticket to their home country every two years
Conducting interviews and trial periods
Once you have a shortlist of candidates or agencies, the next step is to conduct interviews. During the interview, assess not only the nanny’s experience and qualifications but also her communication skills, attitude, and compatibility with your children.
Ask questions like:
- What age groups have you worked with before?
- How would you handle a child’s tantrum?
- Are you trained in first aid or CPR?
- Are you comfortable with cooking or light cleaning?
It’s also recommended to have a trial period—usually one to two weeks—before committing long-term. This allows you and the nanny to adjust and see if the arrangement works well.
Building a good relationship with your nanny
Once hired, maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with your nanny is key. Open communication, regular feedback, and appreciation can go a long way in building trust and loyalty. Here are a few tips:
- Hold monthly check-ins to discuss any concerns or improvements
- Clearly communicate your parenting style and house rules
- Offer fair compensation and timely payments
- Respect her personal time and privacy
A happy nanny is more likely to stay longer and provide better care for your children.
Safety tips for families
Here are a few safety precautions to consider:
- Install security cameras (with the nanny’s knowledge and consent)
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy
- Discuss and set boundaries regarding guests, outings, and screen time for children
- Ensure your child knows how to reach you or another adult if needed
Conclusion
Hiring a nanny service in Dubai is not just about convenience—it’s about finding someone who can support your family with care, compassion, and reliability. By understanding your needs, researching thoroughly, and following the right legal steps, you can ensure a smooth and rewarding experience for both you and your caregiver.
Whether you opt for a full-time live-in nanny or a part-time professional from a registered agency, the most important thing is to choose someone you trust and who fits into your family’s rhythm. With the right approach, you can find the perfect nanny who brings peace of mind and valuable support to your everyday life in Dubai.
