Do You Need to Give Your Nanny Time Off Over Eid?

As the UAE government announces an extended 9-day public and private holiday break, excitement fills the air. Families are eagerly planning vacations or festive gatherings, but a question lingers in many households: “What about our nannies and maids? Do they get to enjoy this break as well?” This question brings to light an important discussion about nanny public holiday rights and responsibilities.

Understanding Domestic Worker Rights in the UAE

To navigate this topic effectively, it’s essential to consider the UAE’s domestic worker labor laws, specifically Federal Decree No. 9 of 2022. This legislation provides clear guidelines on the rights and obligations of domestic workers, including nannies, maids, and other household staff. The law outlines working hours, rest periods, annual leave, and sick leave to protect and ensure fair treatment for domestic helpers. For a deeper dive into these regulations, refer to our comprehensive guide on Domestic Worker Labor Laws. To navigate this topic effectively, it’s essential to consider the UAE’s domestic worker labor laws, specifically Federal Decree No. 9 of 2022

Nanny Public Holiday Entitlements: The Legal Perspective

Under UAE law, domestic workers, including live-in nannies, are not automatically entitled to public holidays off. The regulations ensure that all domestic workers receive:

•One paid rest day per week.

•12 hours of rest per day, including 8 consecutive hours of uninterrupted rest.

•30 days of paid annual leave per year.

•30 days of paid medical leave per year.

This means that while the general workforce might look forward to a long break during occasions like Eid-Al-Fitr or National Day, these public holidays do not automatically apply to domestic helpers. It’s crucial for employers to understand this to manage expectations and plan effectively.

Flexibility and Empathy: Navigating Nanny Public Holiday Requests

While the legal framework does not guarantee public holidays for domestic workers, there is room for flexibility and understanding. For instance, if a nanny has been working extra hours during Ramadan or any busy period, granting additional days off during public holidays can be a considerate gesture. This not only fosters goodwill but also aligns with the spirit of Ramadan and the UAE’s broader cultural emphasis on generosity and compassion.

If a domestic helper wishes to observe a public holiday, employers have the flexibility to offer this as an additional day off or deduct it from the worker’s annual leave. Moreover, if a public holiday coincides with a domestic worker’s scheduled rest day and they are required to work, they should either be compensated with another rest day or receive additional pay.

For further guidance on managing work schedules during special times, check out our article on Ramadan Timings for Maids.

Yaya’s Approach: Balancing Law with Empathy

At Yaya Middle East, we advocate for a balance between adhering to the law and fostering an empathetic household environment. The legal framework provides a baseline, but within that structure, there’s plenty of room to go above and beyond for your domestic staff. Here are some actionable suggestions:

•Plan in Advance: Communicate with your domestic worker about upcoming public holidays. Discuss if they would like time off and plan accordingly to avoid disruptions to the household.

•Celebrate Together: Include your domestic worker in holiday celebrations whenever possible. Shared experiences can enhance the sense of community and belonging within the household.

•Offer Extra Benefits: For those who prefer to work during public holidays, consider offering a bonus or an extra day off later. This gesture recognizes their dedication and shows appreciation for their hard work.

Creating a Respectful and Inclusive Household

Understanding nanny public holiday rights and implementing fair policies within your home is more than just following the law—it’s about creating an inclusive, respectful environment where everyone feels valued. It’s an opportunity to extend the spirit of community and generosity beyond your immediate family to include all members of your household.

At Yaya Middle East, our mission is not only to connect families with trusted nannies and domestic helpers but also to build a community grounded in mutual respect and support. Let’s use this holiday season to set a higher standard of care, understanding, and appreciation for everyone who makes our homes a place of comfort and joy.

By aligning with both legal obligations and ethical standards, you can ensure that your household is a model of fairness and kindness, not just during public holidays, but throughout the year.