Updated on: August 5, 2025 5:39 am GMT

Hiring domestic help has become a common practice for many households in the UAE. Whether you’re an expat or a local resident, having a maid or nanny can significantly ease daily responsibilities — from housekeeping to childcare. However, one of the most frequently asked questions by residents is: how much does a maid cost in the UAE?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — especially focusing on the live-out nanny Dubai cost, which has become a popular choice for families who prefer flexibility without full-time residency obligations.

Types of Maids and Nannies in UAE

Before diving into costs, it’s essential to understand the categories of domestic workers available in the UAE:

• Live-in Maid/Nanny: Resides with the family, provided with accommodation and food.

• Live-out Maid/Nanny: Commutes daily, works fixed hours, and lives independently.

• Part-time Maid: Works hourly or on certain days, often hired through agencies.

• Full-time Maid (Sponsored): Employed directly by the family under a legal visa.

Each category has its own pricing structure and responsibilities. Our focus in this article will be on the live-out nanny Dubai cost, as more families are opting for this setup due to lifestyle or space preferences.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Maid or Nanny in UAE

When hiring help, multiple variables influence the final cost. Here’s what can affect how much you pay:

1. Type of Employment:

   • Agency-hired vs privately hired

   • Sponsored vs non-sponsored

2. Working Hours:

   • Full-time (8+ hours daily) or part-time (few hours a week)

3. Experience and Skills:

   • Maids/nannies with specialized skills (childcare, elderly care, cooking) charge more.

4. Nationality:

   • Workers from the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nepal, or Ethiopia have different salary expectations based on demand and embassy regulations.

5. Accommodation and Transport:

   • Live-out nannies require transport allowances or housing compensation.

Live-Out Nanny Dubai Cost: What to Expect in 2025

Now let’s explore the specifics of the live-out nanny Dubai cost, which varies based on the above factors.

1. Monthly Salary

The average monthly salary for a live-out nanny in Dubai ranges between AED 2,500 to AED 4,500, depending on experience, language proficiency, and responsibilities. Bilingual nannies with teaching capabilities or special care experience can demand up to AED 5,000+.

2. Transport Allowance

Since live-out nannies commute daily, many employers provide a transport allowance, usually ranging from AED 300 to AED 800 per month, or arrange pick-and-drop services.

3. Work Hours and Overtime

Typical working hours are 8 to 10 hours a day. Overtime is often compensated separately, with rates averaging AED 25 to AED 50 per hour depending on the nanny’s contract.

4. Agency Fees (If Applicable)

Hiring through a domestic staffing agency includes placement fees, which can cost anywhere from AED 5,000 to AED 8,000. This might include initial visa processing, medical tests, and training certifications.

Legal Requirements and Sponsorship

While live-in maids are usually sponsored by the family directly, live-out nannies often work under the sponsorship of an agency or a third-party sponsor. This setup is common in Dubai but requires careful legal consideration. If you plan to hire a live-out nanny, ensure they have valid residency and work permits.

Working with reputable service providers like Care n Clean cleaning Company UAE ensures your nanny is fully vetted, legally documented, and trained for the job.

Comparing Maid Services: Agency vs. Private Hiring

For families looking for peace of mind, time-saving, and proper documentation, going through an agency like Care n Cleanss can be the most efficient route.

Additional Costs You Should Know

Besides salaries and agency fees, there are other potential costs when hiring a maid or nanny in the UAE:

• Health Insurance: Mandatory for domestic workers. Basic insurance starts at AED 600/year.

• Medical Fitness Tests: Required during initial hiring and visa renewals. Costs around AED 300-500.

• Visa and Residency Costs: Sponsoring a maid directly can cost between AED 5,000 to AED 7,000 annually.

These costs are usually handled by the employer but vary depending on the arrangement.

Is Hiring a Live-Out Nanny Worth It?

If you value flexibility, space, and privacy, hiring a live-out nanny might be the ideal solution. It’s also a more suitable option for families living in smaller homes or apartments who cannot accommodate a live-in domestic worker.

With proper planning and working with trusted professionals, hiring a live-out nanny in Dubai can be smooth and beneficial for the whole family.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how much a maid costs in UAE depends heavily on your preferences, legal responsibilities, and the type of help you need. The live-out nanny Dubai cost has become more transparent in recent years, especially as reputable agencies simplify the hiring process and ensure compliance with labor laws.

Whether you’re looking for full-time help or occasional support, always prioritize licensed services to protect both your household and the worker.

If you’re looking for reliable and legitimate maid services in the UAE, there are plenty of options to consider. One great place to start is with Care n Clean, a well-regarded cleaning company in the region.