The UAE’s Wage Protection System (WPS) now allows both cash and electronic wage payments for domestic workers. The system strengthens transparency, simplifies salary transfers, and protects the rights of workers and employers across multiple job categories.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) has announced updates to the Wage Protection System (WPS) for domestic workers in the UAE. The system now allows wages to be paid either digitally or in cash, offering greater flexibility to employers while improving worker protections.
This applies to both electronic wage transfers through approved banks and smart apps, and cash payments via licensed financial institutions and exchange houses authorized by the UAE Central Bank.
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According to the Ministry, WPS helps ensure that workers receive their wages on time and securely. It also enables employers to prove payment of salaries and strengthens the legal framework for domestic employment.
By using WPS, employers can track wage payments, generate digital records, and show proof of salary transfer in case of disputes. The system simplifies the monthly payment process and ensures full compliance with UAE labor laws.
The Ministry has clarified that registration in the Wage Protection System (WPS) is currently optional for 14 domestic worker roles. These include housekeepers, nannies, gardeners, cooks, private drivers, falconers, farmers, security guards, house managers, sailors, stable hands, camel trainers, shepherds, and general laborers. Employers hiring workers under these categories are encouraged to register, but it is not mandatory.
On the other hand, registration is mandatory for five specific job roles under the domestic worker category. These are private agricultural engineers, private messengers, private tutors, personal trainers, and home care providers. Employers who hire workers in any of these roles must register in the WPS and ensure that salaries are paid through the system according to the set guidelines.
Wages must be paid in UAE dirhams within 10 working days of the agreed due date, as per Federal Decree-Law No. (9) of 2022. Delays longer than two months may lead to suspension of the employer’s file and services, including work permit renewals.
A payment is considered late if not made through WPS within one month after the due date specified in the employment contract.
There are three situations where WPS registration and payment are not required. These include domestic workers with pending legal complaints who are not currently working for the employer, workers who have been reported as absconding, and those who are still within the first 30 days of their employment contract.
MoHRE emphasized that the system supports fair and legal employment practices, strengthens transparency, and ensures that domestic workers are fully aware of their contracts before arriving in the UAE.
The law ensures that all domestic workers understand their job role, work location, and wage terms, and receive clear information on rest periods and contract rights. It also strictly prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, religion, nationality, or social background.
The UAE’s framework aligns with International Labour Organization (ILO) standards and aims to set a global example for fair treatment of domestic workers.
Employers are encouraged to register with WPS, even if it is not mandatory for the worker’s role. The Ministry also sends automated reminders to alert employers about salary due dates and their responsibilities.
Using WPS helps protect both parties, ensures payment security, and provides digital proof of salary transactions — making it an essential tool for modern household employment in the UAE.
