6 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Nanny in Abu Dhabi

Hiring a nanny in Abu Dhabi can be a great decision for busy families. Whether you need full-time care or just a few hours of help, the right nanny can make daily life easier. But many families in the UAE make small mistakes during the hiring process—mistakes that can lead to stress, confusion, or even legal problems.

Here are the 6 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Nanny in Abu Dhabi

1.     Ignoring UAE Legal Rules for Hiring Nannies

In the UAE, you cannot hire a nanny without following proper legal steps. Many families make the mistake of hiring someone who is on a visit visa or is not legally allowed to work. Such an error can cause serious problems, including fines or visa bans.

Make sure your nanny in Abu Dhabi has a valid residence visa. You can either sponsor the nanny yourself or hire through a licensed agency. This keeps everything legal and safe for both you and the nanny.

2. Hiring in a Hurry Without Checking Properly

Sometimes families need help quickly and end up hiring the first available person. But a nanny is not just a worker—she becomes part of your home and your child’s daily life.

Take time to do proper interviews. Ask for references. Check her experience and make sure she fits your family’s needs. Whether you are looking for a live-in or a live out nanny, the right match matters more than how quickly you can hire.

3. Not Being Clear About Job Duties

One of the most common problems families face is miscommunication. Some think the nanny will also clean the house or cook. But the nanny may think her only job is to care for the children. Such thinking causes tension and confusion later.

Before you hire, write down a clear job description. Please specify the working hours, days off, child-related tasks, and any additional duties you anticipate. If you are hiring a part time nanny, be very clear about the limited hours and responsibilities. For a full time nanny, explain what her daily routine will include.

4. Forgetting About Personality and Culture Fit When Hiring a Nanny in Abu Dhabi

In Abu Dhabi, nannies come from many different countries and cultures. While experience is important, personality and family fit are also key. Some families are very organized and strict, while others are more relaxed. You need someone who fits your parenting style.

Ask the nanny about her way of handling kids, discipline, routines, and playtime. Try a short trial period to see how she connects with your children. A good nanny in UAE should not just be skilled but also warm, caring, and a good match for your home.

5. Not Asking About Certifications or Skills

Many people think that just having experience is enough. But it’s also important to check if the nanny has proper training. Has she done a first aid course? Does she know about child safety or how to handle emergencies?

Whether you are hiring a part-time or a full-time nanny, ask for certificates or proof of training. A well-trained nanny is more confident and prepared—and gives you peace of mind.

6. No Written Contract

In Abu Dhabi, some families rely on verbal agreements. However, without a written contract, various issues may arise. Maybe the nanny expects different hours or wants more pay later. Or you need her to travel, but she didn’t agree to that.

Always create a simple contract. It should include:

• Working hours and days off
• Salary and payment date
• Living arrangements (for a live in nanny)
• Responsibilities and tasks
• Vacation, sick leave, and rules for leaving the job

A written agreement helps avoid confusion and builds a professional relationship.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right nanny in Abu Dhabi is not just about filling a position—it’s about choosing the right person to care for your children. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save time and avoid stress later.

At Choose Maid, we make it easy to connect with experienced nannies in the UAE, including options for live-out, live-in, part-time, and full-time nanny services. You can explore profiles and choose the right fit for your home. After a simple subscription, which starts at just 195 AED, we share contact details.

Don’t rush your decision. Choose smart. Choose the right nanny.