What Your Nanny Contract Should Include

Hiring a nanny in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE is a big decision, and like any professional relationship, it should start with a clear, written agreement. A well-structured nanny contract isn’t just a formality; it’s a tool that protects both the family and the nanny while laying the foundation for a respectful, long-term working relationship.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to include in a nanny contract in the UAE and why it’s essential.

✅ Why You Need a Nanny Contract in the UAE

Whether you're hiring a live-in nanny, live-out nanny, or part-time caregiver, a written agreement:

• Sets clear expectations

• Defines responsibilities and work hours

• Protects both parties legally and financially

• Helps prevent misunderstandings and future conflicts

• Aligns with UAE domestic labor laws

Without a formal contract, it’s easy for roles to blur — leading to confusion, resentment, or burnout.

📝 What to Include in a Nanny Contract (UAE-Specific)

Here’s a checklist of what every UAE nanny contract should cover:

1. Basic Information

• Full names and contact info of the employer and nanny

• Start date and, if applicable, end date of the contract

2. Job Title & Responsibilities

• Daily tasks (childcare, cooking, school pickups, etc.)

• Number and age of children cared for

• Specific duties like tutoring, pet care, or light housekeeping

💡 Tip: Be as detailed as possible here — clarity reduces friction later.

3. Work Hours & Days Off

• Start and end times

• Weekly schedule

• Days off (mandatory: 1 day per week minimum under UAE law)

• Policies for overtime or last-minute schedule changes

4. Salary & Payment Terms

• Monthly salary (in AED)

• Payment schedule (e.g., end of each month)

• Bonuses or performance incentives

💰 Include transportation, food, or housing allowances if it’s a live-out arrangement.

5. Accommodation (for Live-In Nannies)

• Description of room and facilities provided

• Privacy policy and curfew (if applicable)

6. Leave & Holidays

• Paid annual leave (minimum 30 days/year under UAE law)

• Public holidays and travel policies

• Sick leave arrangements

7. Visa Sponsorship & Legal Obligations

• Who is responsible for the nanny visa (usually the family)

• Health insurance (mandatory)

• Return flight every 2 years (required by law)

• End-of-service gratuity

🔗 Refer to the MOHRE domestic worker guidelines for full legal compliance.

8. Termination Clause

• Notice period (usually 30 days)

• Grounds for immediate termination

• Final salary and gratuity handling

9. Confidentiality & Boundaries

• Guidelines around phone use, guest visits, and family privacy

• Expectations on social media (e.g., no posting photos of children)

🤝 Final Thoughts

Taking the time to create a detailed nanny contract isn't just about protecting yourself legally — it shows professionalism, respect, and transparency. It also sets your nanny up for success, which means better care for your children and a more harmonious home.

At Peekaboo Nannies, we support both families and nannies in building strong, long-lasting working relationships. Our platform connects you with vetted, recommended nannies, and we’re always here to guide you through the process — contracts included.