Most people find employing a part-time maid makes life more pleasant, especially for dealing with the perpetual dust and shopping chores. The average monthly salary is about $175 for 2–3 hours three times a week. Some families have found it convenient and useful to hire full-time, English-speaking drivers. Full-time salaries range from $200–$350 per month depending on their experience and English language ability. A few maids or nannies will live in and many cook. Servants should have references, medical and security clearances, and an identity card.

The Niler carries ads for people wanting to work in the community, including cooks, “suffragis” (cleaners, houseboys), nannies, drivers, gardeners, and “makwaggis” (ironers). The representational residences are provided with gardeners.

A “boab”(doorman/janitor/watchman) is found at the entry to some apartment buildings. He receives a monthly tip for performing various small services and in many apartment buildings, each occupant contributes to his salary. Garbage collection is handled by a “zabbal,” for a nominal fee. In the government-owned apartments/houses, all staff is salaried, and occupants do not need to contribute to their incomes.