This Qatari man's heart-warming tribute to his Filipina nanny is restoring our faith in humanity

Qatari writer Nasser al-Naama addressed his nanny, Yaya Zubaidah, in a video that has prompted commendation from social media users.

Naama delivered his message speaking in Tagalog – his nanny's native language.

He described the strong bond he and his family have formed with his Pinay nanny, who he says is like a member of his family.

"For more than 20 years since I was born, Yaya Zubaidah became a quintessential part of my entire family's life. And I cannot imagine what my upbringing would be without her in my life," Naama said in the video.

His love for Zubaidah means he will always have a soft spot for Filipinos, he said.

"As a Qatari, I whole-heartedly extend my gratitude to the Filipino community here in Qatar for your undeniable contribution to the development and progress of my country."

Foreigners who assume domestic work in the Gulf notoriously face physical and sexual abuse, no wages being paid and passports being confiscated.

But Naama's heart-warming tribute has shown that despite much of these problems still apparent, many families have formed strong relationships with domestic workers.

For more than 20 years since I was born, Yaya Zubaidah became a quintessential part of my entire family's life. And I cannot imagine what my upbringing would be without her in my life

Naama's video gained attention from the online Filipino community.

"Thank you for this heart-warming message. The Filipinos will always be one with Qatar," one user said on Twitter.

"Wow I appreciate your kindness to all Filipino like me Mabuhay. I salute you Sir Nasser your heart is so pure... Qatar is my second country," another said via Facebook.

In recent years, hundreds of thousands of foreign workers have flocked to the gas-rich Gulf emirate, including almost 100,000 women working as house staff.

Critics have long campaigned for legal protection for domestic staff, with some claiming that they are subjected to working in slave-like conditions.

This week, authorities in Qatar approved a law limiting working hours for domestic workers – a move to protect thousands of house maids, nannies and cooks in the emirate.