ABU DHABI // Changes to the fees involved in hiring a Nepalese maid will make it cheaper for sponsors but costs for agencies could double, a senior diplomat from Nepal Embassy in Abu Dhabi said.
A Dh5,000 deposit paid by employers to hire a maid from Nepal could be scrapped by the end of the month, said Netra Tandan, charge d’affaires.
“The embassy suggested sponsors shouldn’t pay security deposits and agencies should be accountable for this only,” Mr Tandan said. “The decision is to lower the hiring burden from sponsors and make it more easier for them to avail services of Nepalese domestic helpers.”
However, agencies that recruit and hire maids to come to the UAE could see the amount of money they have to hand over to the embassy double to US$20,000.
“This one-time payment means they can hire any number of maids,” said Mr Tandan, adding that companies based in Nepal are required to pay US$5,000 extra as a security deposit.
The cash will be used to cover any costs that arise from labour disputes, repatriation, medical treatment, owed wages and flights for maids, Mr Tandan said.
In August last year, Nepal’s government introduced new rules for maids working overseas and asked its citizens to cancel their existing valid work visas and re-apply for new ones to ensure they would be able to return to the UAE after they travel. Around 10,000 Nepalese still need to re-apply for new visas with only 400 maids confirming their status since the new rules came into place.
anwar@thenational.ae
Blackpink World Tour [Born Pink] In Cinemas
Starring: Rose, Jisoo, Jennie, Lisa
Directors: Min Geun, Oh Yoon-Dong
Rating: 3/5
Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958-1989
Director: Goran Hugo Olsson
Rating: 5/5
How to protect yourself when air quality drops
Install an air filter in your home.
Close your windows and turn on the AC.
Shower or bath after being outside.
Wear a face mask.
Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.
If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.
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Know before you go
- Jebel Akhdar is a two-hour drive from Muscat airport or a six-hour drive from Dubai. It’s impossible to visit by car unless you have a 4x4. Phone ahead to the hotel to arrange a transfer.
- If you’re driving, make sure your insurance covers Oman.
- By air: Budget airlines Air Arabia, Flydubai and SalamAir offer direct routes to Muscat from the UAE.
- Tourists from the Emirates (UAE nationals not included) must apply for an Omani visa online before arrival at evisa.rop.gov.om. The process typically takes several days.
- Flash floods are probable due to the terrain and a lack of drainage. Always check the weather before venturing into any canyons or other remote areas and identify a plan of escape that includes high ground, shelter and parking where your car won’t be overtaken by sudden downpours.
The biog
Name: Mariam Ketait
Emirate: Dubai
Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, experiencing new things, painting, reading, flying, and the French language
Favourite quote: "Be the change you wish to see" - unknown
Favourite activity: Connecting with different cultures
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The specs
Engine: 2.7-litre 4-cylinder Turbomax
Power: 310hp
Torque: 583Nm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Price: From Dh192,500
On sale: Now
Honeymoonish
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The Perfect Couple
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, Jack Reynor
Creator: Jenna Lamia
Rating: 3/5
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Send “thenational” to the following numbers or call the hotline on: 0502955999
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The specs
Engine: 2-litre 4-cylinder and 3.6-litre 6-cylinder
Power: 220 and 280 horsepower
Torque: 350 and 360Nm
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Price: from Dh136,521 VAT and Dh166,464 VAT
On sale: now