Hiring Domestic Help in Cairo: A Guide for Expats (Salaries & Safety)

One of the biggest lifestyle upgrades for expats moving to Cairo is the affordability of domestic help. In London or New York, a full-time live-in nanny is a luxury for the ultra-rich. In Maadi, it is a standard middle-class convenience.

However, navigating the unwritten rules of Hiring domestic help in Cairo can be tricky. There are questions of culture, legality, and trust. Should you hire a local Egyptian lady or a foreign expat nanny? How much should you pay? And most importantly, how do you trust a stranger in your home? At Edara Property Services, we know that a happy home needs support. This guide breaks down the salaries, the sources, and the safety checks you need to know.

How to find a maid or nanny in Cairo?

Expats typically hire domestic help through recommendations on community Facebook groups (like Maadi Community), specialized agencies, or embassy notice boards. Salaries range from $300 to $800 USD/month depending on nationality, experience, and language skills.

Salary Benchmarks (2026 Monthly Estimates)

1. Live-in vs. Part-time: What do you need?

The first decision is determined by your property’s layout.

• Live-in: Most luxury villas and “Old Maadi” apartments include dedicated “staff quarters” (a small room with an ensuite bathroom). This provides maximum flexibility for families with unpredictable schedules or young children.
• Part-time (Daily): Ideal for those who prioritize evening privacy. Daily help usually arrives at 9:00 AM and departs by 4:00 PM, 3 to 5 days a week.
• Employer Obligations: For live-in staff, you are responsible for full board (food, toiletries, and medical care) and a return flight to their home country every 12–24 months.

2. The Nationality Factor & Sponsorship

The market is segmented by nationality, which impacts both the cost and the legal requirements.

• Asian Staff: Known for high organizational standards and discretion, they command the highest tier of salaries.
• African Staff: Highly valued for their warmth and cultural adaptability. Many families in Sarayat Maadi prefer Francophone staff to support children attending the Lycée Français.
• The Legal Framework: Under Egypt’s updated Labour Law No. 14 of 2025, hiring foreign staff requires specific work permits. Many expats “inherit” staff from departing diplomats who already hold valid residency. While informal hiring is common, we recommend ensuring your helper has valid paperwork to mitigate legal risks.

3. Where to Find Them: The “Referral Economy”

Never hire “off the street” or via unverified social media ads. The gold standard for hiring is the “Departure Sale.” When an expat family finishes their posting, they will post a detailed recommendation for their staff on Maadi community boards.

• Why this works: You receive a verified track record from a peer with similar standards. You can ask specific questions: “How does she handle emergencies?” “Can she cook specific international cuisines?” “Is she punctual?

4. Security and Vetting

Trust is a journey, but verification is the starting point. Protect your home and family with these non-negotiable steps:

• ID Documentation: On Day 1, take a clear photo of their Passport and National ID. Keep these on file.
• The Paid Trial: Always start with a 1-week paid trial period. Observe their interaction with your children and their attention to detail before signing a long-term agreement.
• Key Management: Do not hand over house keys immediately. Use a lockbox or let them in personally until you have established a foundation of trust over several months.

5. The “Serviced” Alternative

If managing visas, payroll, and interpersonal dynamics sounds overwhelming, there is a professional shortcut: Serviced Apartments. These units offer a “hotel-at-home” experience where professional housekeeping is included in your monthly rent. The staff is employed and vetted by the building management, removing all legal and employer liability from you. You get a pristine home without the administrative burden. We manage a premium portfolio of these units; view our Serviced Apartment with Housekeeping Included in Degla to see if this hands-off approach fits your lifestyle.

6. Cultural Etiquette (The “Eid Bonus”)

Egypt is a relationship-based culture. Treating your staff well ensures loyalty.

• The Bonus: It is customary to give a cash bonus during Ramadan (Eid Al-Fitr) and Christmas (if they celebrate).
• Respect: Domestic workers in Egypt are part of the family structure. Small gestures like buying them phone credit or sharing meals create a bond that ensures they will go the extra mile for you.

Conclusion

Having domestic help is one of the great privileges of living in Cairo. It allows you to focus on your career and family while the chores are handled. By hiring through referrals and treating your staff with respect, you will find support that makes your house feel like a home.

Want a cleaning-free life? Skip the hiring process. Rent one of our fully serviced properties where housekeeping is part of the package.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need to sign a contract with my nanny?

A: It is highly recommended. A simple written agreement stating the salary, days off (usually Friday), and duties prevents misunderstandings later.

Q: What is the standard day off?

A: Fridays are the standard day off in Egypt. Some Christian staff may prefer Sundays. Live-in staff typically get a 24-hour break once a week.

Q: Who pays for medical expenses?

A: For live-in staff, the employer usually covers minor medical costs (doctor visits, medicine). For serious issues, having a basic insurance policy or a clear agreement on liability is wise.

Blog Excerpt

Guide to Hiring Domestic Help in Cairo: Salaries, nationalities, and safety tips for expats. Learn the difference between live-in nannies and daily maids, and how to find trustworthy staff in Maadi.