Nepali Workers UAE: Check Your Accommodation Rights
Most Nepali workers in the UAE live in employer-provided labour camps. Your accommodation conditions are governed by MoHRE standards — and those standards are frequently violated. Whether you live in a camp or rent independently, you have legal protections. Know them and use them.
Check Your Employment Contract Accommodation Terms
Upload your contract and our AI will check whether accommodation provisions meet legal requirements and identify any illegal deduction clauses.
Check My ContractLabour Camp Standards: What You Are Entitled To
Under MoHRE standards, your employer must provide accommodation that meets specific requirements: minimum 3 square metres of living space per person, proper ventilation and air conditioning, clean drinking water, functioning toilets and showers (1 per 8 workers), kitchen facilities, fire safety equipment, and regular pest control.
In practice, camps housing Nepali workers in industrial areas often fall short. Rooms designed for 6 workers house 10-12. Air conditioning is broken during peak summer. Toilets are insufficient for the number of residents. These violations are reportable — and MoHRE does conduct inspections and issue fines.
The key is documentation. Photograph conditions, count the number of workers per room, and note any hygiene or safety issues. Reports to MoHRE can be filed anonymously through the app or website.
3 Accommodation Risks for Nepali Workers
Labour Camp Conditions Below Legal Standards
Nepali construction and security workers frequently report overcrowded camps, broken sanitation, no hot water in winter, and pest infestations. Camps in industrial areas of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Sharjah are particularly prone to violations. Document conditions with photos and dated notes. File complaints with MoHRE or the municipality — you can do this anonymously. The Nepal Embassy labour wing can also escalate camp condition complaints.
Accommodation Deductions Not in the Contract
Some employers provide accommodation but deduct AED 200-400 monthly from salaries for 'housing costs' even when the contract states accommodation is provided. If your MoHRE contract says accommodation is included and your employer deducts housing costs, this is wage theft. Save every pay slip and compare the total received against your contract salary. The difference is owed to you.
Restricted Movement from Company Housing
Some employers restrict Nepali workers from leaving company accommodation outside working hours, confiscate phones, or impose curfews. These restrictions are illegal under UAE law. You have the right to freedom of movement at all times. An employer can set reasonable rules about noise and guests in company accommodation, but they cannot lock you in or restrict your movement. Report any movement restrictions to MoHRE and the Nepal Embassy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nepali workers rent their own accommodation in the UAE?
Yes, with a valid residence visa and Emirates ID. However, most Nepali workers in construction and security live in employer-provided labour camps. Workers who want to rent independently can do so — typically sharing apartments or bed-spaces in areas like International City, Al Muhaisnah, or Ajman. To sign a contract, you need your Emirates ID, passport copy, and visa. If your employer restricts your housing choices, this may be a kafala-era violation.
What are my rights in a labour camp in the UAE?
MoHRE Ministerial Resolution No. 591 of 2016 sets minimum standards: 3 sqm per person, adequate ventilation and cooling, clean drinking water, functioning toilets (1 per 8 workers), kitchen facilities, fire safety equipment, and first aid. Your camp must be inspected and approved. If conditions violate these standards, report to MoHRE or the local municipality. You can file anonymously. The Nepal Embassy can also assist with accommodation complaints.
Can my employer evict me from company accommodation without notice?
If your contract includes accommodation, the employer cannot evict you without following the termination process. You are entitled to your notice period in accommodation. Some employers try to pressure workers to leave immediately after termination. If you are asked to vacate without your final settlement being paid, contact MoHRE. You can request a temporary work permit that allows you to stay in the UAE while your case is resolved.