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Authorities indicated that criminal penalties and compensation orders could follow if labour violations are substantiated during the ongoing investigation
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Officials also confirmed that broader inspections of recruitment agencies are expected in coming weeks
UAE labour authorities have suspended the licence of a recruitment agency in Abu Dhabi following complaints from Indian domestic workers alleging contract manipulation, unpaid wages, and passport confiscation. The enforcement action was confirmed within the past 24 hours after labour inspectors completed an emergency compliance review.
According to officials from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the agency is accused of violating labour regulations governing domestic worker recruitment and accommodation standards. Investigators reportedly interviewed workers housed in temporary facilities linked to the company and reviewed employment contracts submitted during recruitment.
“Worker protection laws apply fully to recruitment agencies and employers alike,” a ministry spokesperson said in a statement announcing the suspension
Several Indian domestic workers claimed they were promised higher salaries and different job responsibilities before arriving in the UAE. Others alleged that they faced delayed payments and restrictions on movement after beginning employment.
Worker welfare organisations welcomed the enforcement action and urged Gulf authorities to strengthen monitoring of private recruitment agencies handling overseas domestic labour placements. “Recruitment fraud remains one of the most persistent risks for migrant workers,” a regional labour rights advocate stated.
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi acknowledged the complaints and confirmed that consular officials are assisting affected workers while coordinating with local authorities.
Migration experts noted that domestic workers often remain especially vulnerable because of dependence on employers for housing, visa sponsorship, and legal residency status.
