In the UAE, domestic workers are legally permitted to switch employers, provided they have fulfilled their contractual obligations and follow the formal procedures set out by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). Under the UAE Domestic Workers Law, specifically Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, a worker has the right to transition to a new sponsor without the current employer being held liable for return flight costs to the worker’s home country, as long as the transfer process is handled in accordance with official regulations.

However, the law also protects the financial interests of the original sponsor. If a worker leaves during their initial contract, the new employer is generally required to reimburse the previous sponsor for a portion of the original recruitment agency fees and any government-related expenses incurred during the initial hiring process. Similar rules apply if a transfer occurs shortly after a contract renewal; if the worker moves within the first three months of a renewed term, the new employer is typically responsible for covering the renewal-related government fees, unless both parties have formally agreed otherwise. To ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential legal disputes, sponsors should verify that all outstanding dues are settled and that the visa transfer or cancellation is correctly processed through the appropriate authorities.