Hiring a nanny in Dubai comes with more than just contracts and routines—it also means building a respectful, mutually supportive relationship. One area that often raises questions is holiday leave: Should nannies get time off on the holidays they celebrate—even if they’re different from yours?
The short answer? Ideally, yes—when possible. But in a multicultural city like Dubai, where families and nannies often come from different backgrounds, holiday schedules can be a grey area. Let’s explore how to approach this topic thoughtfully and fairly.
Understanding the Legal Basics in the UAE
Under UAE law, domestic workers—including nannies—are entitled to official public holidays, just like any employee. These typically include:
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Eid al-Fitr
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Eid al-Adha
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National Day
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Islamic New Year
These holidays are mandatory, regardless of a nanny’s faith or nationality.
But what about Christmas, Easter, Diwali, or other personal celebrations?
Should Nannies in Dubai Get Time Off on Their Own Holidays?
Many nannies in Dubai come from the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, or other countries where holidays like Christmas, Easter, or Diwali are deeply meaningful. While not mandatory under UAE law, acknowledging these holidays can go a long way in showing respect, empathy, and appreciation.
Here are a few guiding principles:
1. Mutual Respect
Just as you may take time off to spend Eid or other special days with your family, your nanny likely treasures her own cultural holidays in the same way. Allowing time off—when feasible—honors that value.
2. Planning in Advance
If a holiday like Christmas or Easter is important to your nanny, discuss it well in advance. This allows you to plan for alternative childcare or adjust your schedule.
3. Being Flexible When Possible
If giving the day off isn’t possible due to work or travel commitments, consider options like:
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Offering a half-day off
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Providing a celebratory bonus or gift
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Allowing a compensatory day off later in the week
What If You Celebrate Different Holidays Than Your Nanny?
It’s common in Dubai for families to celebrate Eid while their nanny may observe Christmas or Diwali—or vice versa. Here’s how to balance it:
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Nannies should get public holidays required by law, even if they don’t celebrate them.
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Families should consider their nanny’s traditions with the same thoughtfulness.
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Keep open communication. Ask your nanny what holidays matter to her and create a plan together.
Sample Holiday Planning Questions for Your Nanny
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“Are there any specific holidays that are important to you?”
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“Would you like to take time off around Christmas/Easter/Diwali this year?”
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“How can we make sure both your traditions and our family plans work together?”
This simple conversation can build enormous goodwill and show that you see your nanny as a valued member of your household.
When Your Nanny Celebrates the Same Holidays
If your nanny shares your faith or cultural background, celebrating together can be a special bonding experience for your children too. Think: Christmas tree decorating, Eid cookie baking, or Easter egg hunts with the nanny involved.
Benefits of Giving Holidays to Nannies in Dubai
Recognizing your nanny’s cultural and religious holidays has meaningful benefits that go far beyond the calendar. First, it fosters a stronger, more respectful relationship between you and your nanny—showing that you value not only her work, but also her identity. This kind of appreciation leads to greater job satisfaction, loyalty, and emotional wellbeing. When nannies feel acknowledged and included, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and invested in your family’s daily life. It also sets a great example for your children, teaching them to appreciate and celebrate diversity from a young age.
Final Thoughts
In a diverse, fast-paced city like Dubai, balancing holidays and cultural traditions is part of life. While public holidays are legally required, offering flexibility for personal celebrations like Christmas, Easter, or Diwali is a thoughtful gesture that promotes mutual respect.
Remember, the best relationships with nannies in Dubai are built on more than contracts—they’re built on trust, kindness, and understanding.
