7 Questions to Ask During a Video Interview With a Nanny in Dubai

If you are hiring a nanny in the UAE, your phone is probably buzzing nonstop. Between Facebook groups, agency messages, and recommendations from friends, sifting through candidates can quickly feel like a second job.

Before you invite anyone into your home for a face-to-face meeting or atrial week, a 10-to-15-minute video call (usually on WhatsApp or Zoom) is your best filtering tool. It saves time, helps you gauge their personality, and immediately flags any major language barriers or communication issues.

But what should you actually ask to get past the standard "Yes, Ma'am" answers? Here are 7 questions to ask during a video interview to help you find the right fit.

1. "Walk me through a typical day with your last family."

Don't ask, "Are you hardworking?" Everyone will say yes. Instead, ask them to describe their actual routine.

Listen closely to the order of their tasks. Do they talk primarily about ironing and mopping, or do they mention the morning school routine and preparing lunchboxes? This instantly tells you if they are actually a housekeeper trying to secure a nanny salary, or if they have genuine childcare experience. (Still confused about the difference? Read our guide on choosing between a Maid, Nanny, or both.

2. "If my toddler is throwing a tantrum over an iPad, how do you handle it?"

This is a very real scenario for UAE parents. You want to see their childcare philosophy in action.

Do they say they will just give the child the iPad to keep them quiet? Or do they suggest distraction techniques, offering a snack, or playing a game? You need someone who can manage the chaos of lunchboxes, homework, and tantrums without panicking or constantly calling you at work.

3. "What would you do if the baby started choking?"

Never skip the safety questions. Even through a video screen, you can gauge their confidence in an emergency.

They should be able to clearly describe basic first aid (like back blows for a choking infant) and confirm that they would immediately call for an ambulance and then call you. If they hesitate or seem unsure, it’s a major red flag. Always prioritize candidates who have had essential safety training or at least know the basic child safety tips for helpers.

4. "I work from home. How will you keep the kids entertained so I can focus?"

With so many Dubai parents struggling with work-life balance, having a nanny who can independently entertain the kids is crucial.

Ask for specific ideas. Are they suggesting indoor activities during Dubai's cooler months, or do they know how to keep kids entertained during the summer heat? If their only answer is "put on the TV," they might not be the proactive nanny you need.

5. "Why did you leave your last job in the UAE?"

This is standard, but highly revealing. Listen to their tone. Are they professional, or do they angrily complain about their last sponsor?

Valid reasons include the family relocating, the kids growing up, or finishing a standard two-year contract. If they are vague, make a note to dig deep when you ask these 5 questions during the reference check.

6. "What are your expectations for your day off?"

This is the time to set boundaries and avoid future arguments.

Ask them how they usually spend their time off and be clear about your own household rules. If you expect a live-in nanny to return by a certain time for security reasons, mention it now. For more context on navigating this legally and fairly, review the nanny day off rules for UAE families.

7. "Are you available for a paid trial week?"

End the video call with this question. If they are the right fit, they will confidently agree to a trial period before signing any paperwork.

A trial week is your chance to observe them in person during that first crucial month. If they demand an immediate visa transfer without a trial, politely decline and move on to the next candidate.

The Bottom Line

A video interview shouldn't replace a face-to-face meeting, but it is the ultimate tool for narrowing down your shortlist. Trust your instincts, if the conversation flows easily and they answer your questions confidently, they are definitely worth inviting over for the next step!

Want to skip the endless WhatsApp screening? Let Peekaboo Nannies connect you with pre-vetted, highly experienced childcare professionals in just 5 easy steps.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. Before hiring, review these 6 legal must-knows. For official rules regarding domestic worker sponsorship, mandatory rest hours, or legal obligations, please refer to the official UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) website.