Salary Up to Dh45,000: UAE’s Wealthy Families Now Hiring Pet Nannies, Sober Coaches, and House Managers

A growing trend in the UAE sees high-net-worth families hiring specialized staff such as house managers, pet nannies, and sober coaches, with some roles offering salaries as high as Dh45,000. A Dubai-based recruitment consultancy is catering to these affluent households, ensuring discretion and high standards.

Growing Demand for Specialized Roles in UAE Households

Lynsay Kilbane, the founder of the Mama Consultancy, shared insights into the types of roles her firm recruits for, highlighting the unique needs of wealthy families. “We primarily focus on nannies, maternity nurses, and governesses, but we also hire for roles like butlers, chefs, and house managers,” she explained in an interview with Khaleej Times. Recently, there has been an increased demand for more unique roles such as full-time masseuses, pet nannies, and sober coaches.

High Salaries for Elite Household Positions

The salaries for these specialized roles can vary significantly based on the nature of the job and its location. According to Lynsay, childcare positions typically range from Dh20,000 to Dh30,000 per month, while house and estate managers are at the higher end of the pay scale, earning between Dh30,000 and Dh45,000. “Employers in places like Saudi Arabia are particularly generous, offering top pay for professionals who are highly educated and impeccably trained,” she added.

Challenges in Hiring for Wealthy Families

One of the biggest challenges in recruiting for high-net-worth families is maintaining privacy and discretion. “Not all jobs are advertised publicly. I carefully and personally select candidates for these roles, using my network built over 15 years in the industry,” said Lynsay. In addition to ensuring confidentiality, she often deals with the urgency of immediate staffing needs. “I’ve had to pull all-nighters to make sure my clients have the staff they need in record time,” she shared, citing examples of placements made within 24 hours.

The Competitive Landscape of Private Household Staffing

The domestic worker landscape in the UAE is unique and can present challenges for recruiters. “In the UAE, the definition of a nanny can differ greatly from that in Europe. I often have to explain that I’m looking for professional candidates with specific qualifications,” Lynsay said. She advised job seekers to ensure they possess the relevant experience and qualifications, as many roles require a high level of expertise.

The industry is competitive, with professionals dedicating their entire careers to mastering the skills required for these intimate and highly delicate roles. “Even if you meet all the qualifications on paper, the principal might be looking for something very specific. It’s important to maintain a positive mindset and move on gracefully if rejected,” she advised.

With affluent families in the UAE and beyond seeking specialized household staff, there is a growing demand for roles such as pet nannies, sober coaches, and house managers. These jobs, often offering substantial salaries, require highly trained professionals who are flexible, discreet, and capable of maintaining the highest standards. As this trend continues, the competition for such positions remains fierce, but those with the right qualifications and experience can find lucrative opportunities.