Obtaining a DHA license in Dubai is a mandatory step for any medical professional dreaming to practice in the UAE. This formal document is proof that you are legally authorized to work in the country and meet the demanding healthcare regulations. The license is valid for one year and a health facility should activate the license for the medical professional to start their practice. The health professional must maintain an active registration and can help secure an approved position without re-assessment, along with being listed in the Dubai Medical Registry.
In this guide we will discuss every aspect of Dubai Health Authority License, including who should apply for it, how to apply, required fees and documents, exams and renewal process to help you navigate the process with ease.
What is a DHA License in Dubai?
A DHA license is an official document issued by the Dubai Health Authority that is a confirmation of a healthcare professional’s eligibility to practice in the UAE. Primarily, it is an approval that you have completed the education, training and experience set by the DHA authority related to your profession.
Who Needs to Get a DHA License in Dubai?
All health workers who want to practice in the UAE are required to get a DHA license in Dubai before starting practice. The requirement applies to the following,
- Doctors and Nurses. Physicians including specialists, consultants, general practitioners and dentists.
- Midwives and Nurses. Registered midwives, nurses, and other related professionals.
- Affiliated Health Professionals. These include pharmacists, lab technicians, physiotherapists, radiographers etc.
- Traditional Medicine Practitioners. Practitioners in approved traditional medical fields.
In brief, anyone who wants to provide clinical or affiliated health services in Dubai, whether in clinics, hospitals, pharmacies or other medical facilities must get a DHA license. Practicing without having an active DHA license is illegal in the UAE and can lead to fines and penalties, which is why you must be licensed to safeguard your career.
Why is it Necessary for Health Professionals to Get a DHA License in Dubai?
Dubai upholds a high-standard healthcare system to protect patients and a DHA license ensures the health workers are competent and verified. During the licensing process, the authorities verify the applicant’s credentials and hold exams to ensure patients safety and trust. The license, therefore, is a quality control measure and a legal requirement which confirms to employers and patients that you are competent, up-to-date in your field and trained to practice in the UAE’s health sector.
What are the Eligibility Requirements and Qualifications for a DHA License in Dubai?
The Dubai Health Authority has set an eligibility criteria for health workers looking to work in the health sector. The DHA uses the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) framework for experience and minimum qualifications for each healthcare category. Before applying for a DHA license, the applicant must be aware of the following criteria,
Professional Qualifications – DHA License in Dubai
The applicant must hold a certified health or medical related diploma or degree relevant to their profession from a recognized institution. These include;
- Doctors. Bachelor of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine (MD), Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or an equivalent medical degree.
- Dentists. Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS).
- Nurses. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) or equivalent degree.
- Pharmacists. Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) or equivalent diploma.
- Affiliated Health Professionals. Allied certified degree/diploma or a bachelor’s degree in their professional field.
You can also check detailed educational criteria in the DHA Professional Qualification Requirements Framework.
Professional Experience
You are required to have a minimum of two years experience in your field for getting a license in Dubai. However, there are exceptions for certain categories such as a specialist must have a 3-year experience in their field and a general physician must have a 2-year post-internship experience.
Some high-level professionals and professionals with advanced qualifications might have other requirements according to the PQR.
Good Standing Certificate (GSC)
You must hold a good standing certificate from your previous licensing authority to prove that you have a clean practice record. The GSC must not be older than 6 months when you submit your license application.
Existing License
You must hold a license or registration from your previous place of work, and have a clean record with no disciplinary issues.
Fitness and Health
If you are 65 or older, you may need to undergo a medical fitness test in the UAE. Additionally, you may be required to provide an up-to-date Basic Life Support certificate (BLS).
Language Skill
Although it is not required for every case, you must have proficiency in English and/or Arabic for communication and license exams. You can also provide English test scores for certain categories.
How to Check Your Eligibility for A DHA License in Dubai?
Through DHA’s Self-assessment Tool on the Sheryan portal, you can input your experience and qualifications to check if you meet the requirements for the desired post. This tool instantly tells you if you’re eligible, if it says you’re “not eligible” you can fulfill the requirements or may request a manual review of your qualifications. Once you’ve completed the DHA requirements you can successfully get your license.
How to Apply for a DHA License in Dubai?
There are several steps involved in obtaining a DHA license from initial registration to license activation. Here is how you can apply,
Self Assessment
You can check eligibility criteria by doing the following,
- View the online DHA Sheryan Portal and use the Self Assessment Tool.
- The next is selecting your profession, providing education and experience details, the system will automatically check the credentials against the Professional Qualification Requirements of DHA.
- If it says you’re eligible, you can proceed. If not you may need to review your provided information.
Sign Up on Sheryan Portal
- Create a new Sheryan account on the DHA Sheryan Portal.
- Provide personal information such as name and contact number to create your account. This account will act as a dashboard during the whole process.
Submit Required Documents
You can provide necessary information and initiate verification by following these steps,
- Start a “Get Registered” application on Sheryan Portal.
- Submit your documents such as, educational diplomas, license, experience letters etc.
- Start (PSV) Primary Source Verification through DataFlow Group, to verify your documents directly with the issuing institutions.
- The PSV generally takes 3 to 4 weeks. You can complete your Primary Source Verification while preparing for the DHA exam.
Take the DHA Prometric Exam
These involve the following,
- DHA Prometric Exam is an online multiple choice test, which is required for most healthcare professions.
- You can schedule your exam via the Prometric Website or DHA.
- You can take your exam in Dubai or internationally at the Prometric centers.
- Some specialties may require you to give an oral interview, the DHA will inform you if required.
- You are required to pass your DHA exam within three attempts across all health authorities of UAE i.e, DHA, MOHAP, DOH.
- Make sure your documents are clear with Primary Source Verification (PSV) before taking your exam.
DHA Review
The next step involves DHA review and initial registration, which is explained below,
- After you complete the PSV and pass the DHA exam, submit your application through Sheryan Portal.
- Attach your PSV, exam results, and pay the DHA fees (AED 200 Approx.)
- DHA will review your application within 5 working days.
In Case of Approval
You will receive a “DHA Eligibility Letter” confirming you are eligible and meet the licensing requirements (valid for one year). Now you are officially registered and your credentials appear in the Dubai Medical Registry.
In Case of Rejection
If your application is rejected, DHA will specify reasons e.g, incomplete documents etc. You can submit the documents after addressing the problem.
Acquire the Job & Activate Your License
After getting approval you can move on to the next steps,
- You need sponsorship from a DHA-licensed medical facility, for your active license.
- After getting your eligibility letter, secure your job at a healthcare center.
- The healthcare facility will activate your license, submitting documentation such as employment offers and misconduct insurance.
- Pay license issuance fee which is AED 1,000-4,000 depending on the profession.
- Upon fulfilling all requirements, your status will change to “licensed” and you will get an e-license certificate.
The next section includes other key components such as required documents, the exam and what other things you may need to consider.
What is the DHA Prometric Exam? – DHA License in Dubai
The DHA Prometric Exam is a mandatory online test to assess professional competency and knowledge related to the field of the applicant. Here are some key points,
Format of Exam. It includes MCQs, around 150 items depending on your field of profession.
Duration. The exam duration is about 2 to 3 hours.
Rating System. Scoring system to immediately show if you’ve passed or failed.
How to prepare. You can review your exam content online, online courses, reference text books to prepare for exams.
Ensure you’re fully prepared before scheduling your exam, and pass your exam within three attempts.
What are the Documents Required for DHA License in Dubai?
You must submit clear documents along with your DHA license application showing your identity, qualifications and professional experience. Prepare these documents in advance to streamline your license application process.
Person ID
These include,
- Valid passport copy
- Passport-size photograph with white background
- Emirates ID card if you have UAE residence visa (you can also obtain it later)
Educational Certificates
Provide your educational credentials such as,
- Attested degree certificates
- Mark sheets or academic record
- Specialization certificates (for specialists)
Professional Experience Certificates
You are also required to provide your professional experience certificates,
- Experience certificates or letters, clearly showing employment dates, your professional role, and responsibilities on an official letter.
- Procedures list or logbook for surgical specialists.
Professional License
These include,
- Your current professional license from your home country of recent practice.
- Previous eligibility letters or UAE licenses from DHA, MoHAP, DOH (if applicable).
- Good Standing Certificate
Primary Source Verification
You need to provide DataFlow receipt or case number obtained when you start Primary Source Verification.
Additional Documentation (If Required)
- Basic Life Support Certificate
- Medical fitness test for applicants aged 65 or above.
- Official name-change document if relevant.
- NOC from your current employer in UAE if you are changing roles or transferring from another emirate.
To avoid rejection, ensure your documents are clear, and legible and officially translated (if they’re not originally in Arabic or English).
What is the Cost of a DHA License in Dubai?
Here is the complete breakdown of the fees associated with DHA License in Dubai,
| Fee Type | Charges (AED) | Note |
| DHA Application | AED 200 approx | Payable during application |
| Primary Source Verification | AED 1100-1500 | Varies according to the number of documents |
| Prometric Exam | AED 880 | Paid to Prometric per exam attempt |
| Oral Test (If Applicable) | AED 200-500 (variable) | For selected specialties |
| Annual License Renewal Fee | AED 200 approx. | Paid yearly via the DHA Portal |
| License Activation Charges | AED 1000-4000 | Ut is typically covered by the employer |
| Documents attestation | Embassy/MoFA | Necessary for foreign issued certificates |
| Translation charges | Charged per page (varies) | Necessary for non Arabic/English documents |
| Good Standing Certificate | Varies according to the issuing authority | Licensing authority charges this fee |
| Medical fitness test (for applicants aged 65+) | AED 200-400 | Conducted at DHA-approved center in UAE |
| Express Data Flow Service (if required) | AED 500 | Verification in about 2 weeks |
Summary
Obtaining a DHA license in Dubai is a significant step for health professionals aiming to start their healthcare career and practice. The process can be complex but with the expert advice given in the blog, thorough preparation can help you obtain your license without any stress. Make sure to prepare for the DHA exam, gather the required documents and meet all eligibility criteria and utilise the official Sheryan Portal. Acquiring your DHA license will help you pursue your healthcare career legally and with confidence.
Contact Al Riyady for all your business related queries in the UAE. Our expert team can help you with Business License, Golden Visa UAE and many other services.
