Is It Better to Hire a Nanny Directly or Through an Agency in the UAE?
Families often ask: is it better to hire a nanny directly or through an agency in the UAE? Yes — it’s almost always better to hire a nanny directly, especially through Yaya Middle East, the UAE’s only nanny app. With Yaya, families connect straight to verified, Dubai-based nannies through video greetings, in-app messaging, and real-time availability — with full legal visa support. Agencies may look convenient, but they often underpay nannies, limit their choice of families, and create short-term matches that don’t last.
Direct Hiring vs Agency: What’s Better in the UAE?
Fair pay → 100% of salary goes to the nanny. No agency cuts.
Mutual choice → Nannies pick families too, which builds stronger, longer-term bonds.
Verified & local profiles → Every nanny on Yaya is ID-checked, confirmed in Dubai/UAE, and reviewed before going live.
See personality first → Video greetings help families pre-screen before interviewing.
Legal visa support → Sponsorship in ~8 working days via Maids.cc — with an exclusive AED 250 Yaya discount.
Stability → Families who invest in finding the right fit typically retain their nanny for years, not months.
The Reality of Agency Hiring
Agencies can feel like the easiest option — they manage contracts, visas, and placements. But this convenience often comes with trade-offs:
Extra costs → Families pay agency fees (sometimes AED 10,000+) on top of monthly salaries.
Nannies earn less → Because agencies take a portion of the salary, nannies often are underpaid.
Limited choice → Nannies don’t usually get to choose the families they work for, which can lead to poor matches.
Short-term fix → Many nannies leave once their agency contract ends, meaning families have to start over.
Less personal connection → Matches can feel rushed, with generic profiles and limited interviews.
Why Due Diligence Matters
Direct hiring gives better long-term results, but it comes with responsibility. Once you sponsor a nanny’s visa, it cannot be refunded or transferred if things don’t work out. That’s why due diligence is essential:
Do a trial before sponsorship.
Interview carefully and check references.
Be clear on duties, salary, and rest days in writing.
Yaya reduces these risks by ensuring verified profiles, video greetings, and curated active candidates only.
Mini FAQ
Q: Is direct hiring legal in the UAE?
Yes. Families can sponsor a nanny directly under UAE law, as long as contracts, health insurance, and MOHRE rules are followed.
Q: Why do many nannies prefer direct hiring?
Because they keep their full salary, choose families that fit, and avoid agency restrictions.
Q: How long does the visa process take with Yaya?
Around 8 working days via our partner Maids.cc — with a AED 250 discount. Everything is handled through WhatsApp, no office visits.
Q: When might an agency make sense?
If you want a hands-off, turnkey solution and are comfortable with higher costs and possible short-term matches.
For costs, contracts, and hiring steps, read our Complete 2025 Guide to Hiring a Nanny in Dubai.
If you’re interested in sponsoring your nanny, read our Visa Sponsorship Guide