Introuduction Of UAE
In the heart of the UAE’s luxury lifestyle, a growing trend is emerging: the demand for specialized domestic staff, including pet nannies, sober coaches, and house managers, with salaries reaching up to Dh45,000 per month. These roles, often unadvertised to maintain the privacy of high-net-worth families, are increasingly being filled by agencies like the Dubai-based Mama Consultancy.
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The Rise of Specialized Roles
Lynsay Kilbane, the founder of Mama Consultancy, highlights the wide range of positions her firm recruits for. “We mainly focus on nannies, maternity nurses, and governesses, as well as butlers, chefs, and house managers,” she said in an interview with Khaleej Times. However, the agency is also seeing demand for more unique roles, such as full-time masseuses, pet nannies, and sober coaches, reflecting the evolving needs of affluent families.
Childcare roles command substantial salaries, ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh30,000 per month. However, house and estate managers sit at the top of the pay scale, with salaries ranging from Dh30,000 to Dh45,000, depending on the role, job scope, and location. In neighboring Saudi Arabia, where generosity is often a hallmark of employer-employee relationships, these figures can be even higher.
“Families are paying for highly educated, impeccably trained professionals who are prepared to be flexible, maintain discretion, and execute their roles to the highest standard,” said Kilbane.
Challenges of Hiring for Wealthy Families
One of the primary challenges in hiring for wealthy families is ensuring privacy and discretion. Kilbane notes that many roles are not publicly advertised, and she personally selects candidates to maintain confidentiality. Her 15 years in the industry have allowed her to build a trusted network of professionals who can meet the unique demands of these households.
Urgency is another challenge. High-net-worth families often require immediate staffing solutions, and Kilbane has gone to great lengths to meet these demands. “I have pulled a few all-nighters to ensure my clients have the staff they need in record time,” she revealed. In one instance, she placed a governess in less than 24 hours from receiving the client’s call to the governess arriving at their home.
Despite these challenges, Kilbane’s commitment to discretion and service has earned her repeat business. “One of my long-standing clients has me place staff in all of his children’s homes,” she shared. “He has seven adult children with separate households and staffing needs around the world. We have assisted about 50 affluent families in finding staff who reflect the family’s values and make a valuable addition to their home.”
Navigating a Competitive Landscape
The UAE’s domestic worker market presents unique challenges, especially in terms of expectations and qualifications. Kilbane notes that there is often a discrepancy between local and international definitions of roles like nannies, making it challenging to find candidates who meet the specific requirements of her clients.
“When applying for positions at this level and looking to work in affluent households, you need to ensure you have the relevant qualifications and experience,” she advised. For example, someone with a background as an air steward might not qualify for a butler role, and babysitting younger family members does not make one a qualified nanny.
The private household industry is highly competitive, with candidates dedicating their careers to becoming discreet, skilled professionals. Kilbane emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, good manners, and resilience in the face of rejection. “Working in a private household is an intimate and delicate role,” she explained. “Even if you think you check all of the requirements on paper, the principal may be looking for something very, very particular. Always thank the agent and client for their time and move along.”
In conclusion, the demand for specialized domestic staff in the UAE reflects the evolving needs of the region’s wealthy families. For those with the right skills, qualifications, and mindset, these roles offer not only lucrative salaries but also the opportunity to work in some of the most prestigious households in the world.
