✅ This corridor is open — but only through one official channel. Indonesia has restricted domestic-worker placement to the Middle East since its 2015 moratorium, which still covers most of the region. the UAE is one of the exceptions: the UAE channel was restored under a bilateral agreement in 2023. Placement must run through a licensed Indonesian recruitment agency (P3MI) registered with the Indonesian migrant-worker authority — a private arrangement outside that channel is not a legal placement, however it is presented to you. Since 1 January 2026 the salary must also be paid electronically through the wage-protection system; cash is no longer valid.
# Indonesian Maid in UAE: Complete Hiring Guide 2026
Indonesian domestic workers are among the most requested nationalities in the UAE, particularly for Muslim families. Known for being gentle, family-oriented, and trustworthy with children, they are a top choice for nanny and housemaid roles across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
---
## Why UAE Families Choose Indonesian Maids
- **Muslim background** — most Indonesian workers are Muslim, making them compatible with halal households
- **Excellent with children** — widely praised as nannies and child carers
- **Calm and respectful temperament** — adapts well to household culture
- **Official bilateral agreement** — Indonesia and UAE have a formal labor MoU ensuring worker protections
- **Strong availability** — Indonesia is one of the largest source countries for domestic workers globally
---
## Is It Legal to Hire Indonesian Maids in UAE?
Yes. Indonesia is an officially approved source country under UAE MoHRE. However, hiring must go through a **licensed Tadbeer centre or authorized agency**. The Indonesian government has specific requirements through **BP2MI (National Authority for the Protection and Placement of Indonesian Migrant Workers)** that must be met before a worker can depart Indonesia.
> ⚠️ Indonesia has at times suspended or restricted domestic worker deployment to certain countries. Always confirm current status with your Tadbeer agency before proceeding.
---
## Indonesian Maid Salary in UAE 2026
| Role | Monthly Salary (AED) |
|---|---|
| Housemaid / Helper | 1,400 – 1,800 |
| Nanny / Childcare | 1,600 – 2,500 |
| Elderly Caregiver | 1,600 – 2,400 |
| Cook / Kitchen Helper | 1,500 – 2,200 |
Salaries are paid monthly via the **Wage Protection System (WPS)**. Indonesian workers are generally competitive in cost while being highly regarded for quality of care.
---
## Step-by-Step: How to Hire an Indonesian Maid in UAE
### Step 1 — Use a Tadbeer-Licensed Agency
Only MoHRE-authorized agencies can recruit Indonesian workers. Browse verified agencies: www.gccdomestic.com/en/agencies/
### Step 2 — Select Candidate & Sign MoHRE Contract
Review candidate profiles, interview, and sign the MoHRE Unified Standard Employment Contract in both Arabic and English.
### Step 3 — Entry Permit via GDRFA
Your agency applies for the worker's UAE entry permit through GDRFA. Valid for 60 days from issue.
### Step 4 — BP2MI Clearance from Indonesia
The Indonesian government requires workers to be registered with **BP2MI** and receive departure clearance. Your licensed agency in UAE coordinates with their Indonesian partner agency.
### Step 5 — Worker Arrives & Medical Test
Medical fitness test within 30 days of arrival — blood tests, chest X-ray, health clearance through approved UAE facilities.
### Step 6 — Emirates ID & 2-Year Residence Visa
Biometric registration at ICP. The residence visa is valid for 2 years and tied to your sponsorship.
### Step 7 — Register Contract with MoHRE
Submit contract to MoHRE within 30 days. Verify on the MoHRE portal using your employer file number.
> ⏱️ **Timeline:** 5–10 weeks from abroad due to BP2MI processing. 2–4 weeks if the worker is already in UAE.
---
## Total Hiring Cost for Indonesian Maid in UAE 2026
| Fee Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Tadbeer / Agency Fee | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Entry Permit (GDRFA) | 200 – 400 |
| Medical Fitness Test | 200 – 350 |
| Emirates ID | 270 |
| Residence Visa | 500 – 1,000 |
| Health Insurance (mandatory) | 800 – 2,000 |
| Air Ticket from Indonesia | 700 – 1,500 |
| **Total Estimated Cost** | **AED 5,800 – 13,000** |
---
## Required Documents
### Employer Documents
- UAE Residence Visa copy
- Emirates ID copy
- Salary certificate (minimum AED 25,000/month)
- Proof of accommodation
### Worker Documents (from Indonesia)
- Valid passport (2+ years remaining)
- BP2MI registration and clearance
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical fitness certificate
- Signed employment contract
---
## Indonesian vs Filipino Maid — Quick Comparison
| Factor | Indonesian | Filipino |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary (AED/month) | 1,400 – 1,800 | 1,600 – 2,200 |
| Religion | Majority Muslim | Majority Christian |
| English Level | Basic – Intermediate | Intermediate – Fluent |
| Hiring Cost | Moderate | Moderate – High |
| Gov. Clearance Required | BP2MI (Indonesia) | DMW (Philippines) |
| Best Known For | Childcare, halal homes | English communication, experience |
---
## Legal Rights of Indonesian Workers in UAE
Under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, all domestic workers are entitled to:
- **Annual leave:** 30 days after one year
- **Weekly rest:** At least 1 day per week
- **Health insurance:** Mandatory, paid by employer
- **End-of-service gratuity:** 14 days salary per year
- **Resignation right:** After 6 months with 30 days' notice
- **Abuse protection:** File complaints via MoHRE 600 590 000
---
## Frequently Asked Questions
**Are Indonesian maids available in UAE right now?**
Yes. Indonesian domestic workers are actively deployed to UAE through licensed agencies. Confirm current availability and any travel advisories with your Tadbeer centre.
**What is the average salary of an Indonesian maid in UAE 2026?**
Between AED 1,400 and AED 2,000 per month for a housemaid role, higher for nanny or childcare positions.
**Do Indonesian workers need BP2MI clearance?**
Yes. All Indonesian migrant workers must be registered with BP2MI and receive official clearance before departure from Indonesia.
**How long does it take to hire an Indonesian maid from Indonesia?**
Allow 5–10 weeks due to BP2MI processing, entry permit, and visa stamping.
**Can I hire an Indonesian worker already in UAE?**
Yes, with a valid visa or in a grace period. The transfer requires the previous employer's release and is handled through your Tadbeer agency.
---
## Find a Verified Agency on GCC Domestic
Browse 2,000+ government-verified agencies specializing in Indonesian and other domestic workers across UAE and all GCC countries.
- Browse UAE Agencies: www.gccdomestic.com/en/uae/
- Request a Worker: www.gccdomestic.com/en/request-worker/
- Contact Support: www.gccdomestic.com/en/contact/
*Last updated: March 26, 2026 — reflects latest MoHRE regulations and UAE–Indonesia bilateral labor agreement.*
---
## Related Guides
- [Complete Guide to Hiring Domestic Workers in UAE 2026](/en/blog/complete-guide-hiring-domestic-workers-uae-2026/)
- [Maid Salary UAE 2026: Complete Guide by Nationality & Role](/en/blog/maid-salary-uae-2026-by-nationality-role/)
- [Filipino Maid UAE: Complete Hiring Guide 2026](/en/blog/filipino-maids-uae-hiring-guide-2026/)
- [Indian Maid UAE: Salary & Hiring Guide 2026](/en/blog/indian-maid-uae-salary-hiring-guide-2026/)
- [Sri Lankan Maid UAE: Salary & Hiring Guide 2026](/en/blog/sri-lankan-maid-uae-salary-hiring-guide-2026/)
- [Ethiopian Maid UAE: Complete Hiring Guide 2026](/en/blog/ethiopian-maid-uae-hiring-guide-2026/)
- [Indonesian Maid UAE: Complete Hiring Guide 2026](/en/blog/indonesian-maid-uae-hiring-guide-2026/)
- [UAE Domestic Worker Labour Law: Employer Guide 2026](/en/blog/uae-domestic-worker-labor-law-employer-guide-2026/)
- [How to Choose the Right Maid Agency in UAE](/en/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-maid-agency-in-uae-5-key-steps/)
- [Browse Verified UAE Agencies →](https://www.gccdomestic.com/en/uae/)
- [The Importance of Interviewing Your Maid Before Hiring](/en/blog/the-importance-of-interviewing-your-maid-before-hiring/)
## Tools & Directories
- [Hire a Domestic Worker](https://www.gccdomestic.com/en/hire-domestic-worker/)
- [Browse Verified Workers](https://www.gccdomestic.com/en/workers/)