African housemaids cleaning out market

It is difficult to say which nationality of housemaid is the best for a family, as this entirely depends on the needs of the family, their preferences, as well as past experiences with housemaids. 

However, many UAE families have begun hiring housemaids from Uganda. 

After the unified contract issued by the UAE’s Ministry of Interior came into effect the number of housemaids coming in from the Philippines and Indonesia drastically reduced.

With Nepalese, Indian and Sri Lankan maids being considered in the ‘costlier’ bracket, employment agencies dealing with the same are now promoting housemaids from Uganda.

Speaking to Emirates 24|7, Najla, an Emirati mother of four kids from Sharjah said that she had a housemaid from the Philippines for a long time.

“When my housemaid left, it was difficult to get another one from the Philippines due to the hiring complications.

“Thus, the office suggested that I try a housemaid from Uganda. It was a difficult decision as I never had a housemaid from an African country.

“Also I am used to housemaids from the Philippines only, especially as nannies to my children.”

Najla pointed out that the new housemaid from Uganda cost her Dh3,500, compared with more than Dh17,000 if she wanted to get a housemaid from the Philippines. 

“The Ugandan housemaid also arrived within 10 days.

“In the beginning, I was not comfortable, but now, we are satisfied that we got her.

“Jackie, is the name of my Ugandan housemaid, and her English language is very good. She is also very good with housework, especially cleaning.

“The kids love her as well. Fortunately, it was a good decision and I am happy everything went well with this choice.

“Now, she will complete seven months and I have no complaints at all with her.”

Mohammed, an agent from a supply company in Dubai confirms that demand is picking up for housemaids from Uganda. 

“From the requests we get, there are many who ask specifically for Ugandan housemaids.

“They come to us with good feedback from their friends and relative who have tried this nationality’s work.

“The other major reason for this choice is that the cost of bringing Ugandan housemaids is less than Dh5,000 which is very convenient to many families.

“Their salaries are also below Dh1,000, unlike other nationalities who ask for more than Dh1000.”

Moza, another Emirati mother of two girls said that her cousins recommend she get a housemaid from Uganda.

“I was hesitant in the beginning, but then agreed to get a Ugandan housemaid as I only need her for cleaning.

“We paid around Dh4,500 and she arrived in a week. Her English is perfect.

“She is also very kind, polite and obedient. She is very friendly with my daughters, and they love her. She cleans the house and makes the beds in a very neat way like hotels.

“I am glad that I got her. I have no problems with her at all, and now, she will complete five months.”

Azza, another Emirati mother of one also got a housemaid from Uganda after seeing her mother’s Ugandan housemaid. 

“My mother had two housemaids, and when one of them finished her contract and left, she got a Ugandan housemaid to help the other one.

“”The new maid was assigned for cleaning the house only. When I saw how good she is, I decided to get a Ugandan housemaid as well.

“She is very good. She is only responsible for cleaning the house, but she plays with my son as well most of the time. He loves her a lot.”

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