For entrepreneurs exploring how to start a dental clinic in Dubai, it is important to understand the necessary steps to make the business successful. Dubai’s healthcare industry is booming, and healthcare professionals, investors and entrepreneurs are attracted towards it. The necessary steps are understanding the regulatory framework of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), obtaining a license and fulfilling other requirements.
A smile is the first thing people notice, which is why dental care is the most important and in high demand. The UAE’s dental market recorded more than USD 195 million in revenue last year, driven by steady tourist traffic and a fast-growing population. Hence, investing in healthcare is a promising venture for entrepreneurs.
This guide will provide complete information on the application process, required documents, and the license required to establish a dental clinic in Dubai.
Types of Licenses Required to Start a Dental Clinic in Dubai?
Let us begin by looking at the required licenses to open a dental clinic in Dubai.
Dental Clinic License
The license is specifically for dental care professionals who want to provide dental services in Dubai. Independent dental clinics offering services such as oral surgery, general dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, and endodontics.
Specialised Dental Clinic License
The specialised dental clinic license is for dental specialists who want to provide specific dentistry services in Dubai. The specialist obtaining the license works within their speciality and provides advanced treatments in their field.
Mobile Dental Clinic License
A dentist who wants to practice dentistry without a dental hospital or a physical space in Dubai can apply for a mobile dental clinic license. The license allows dentists to offer services offline at places such as offices, events, schools, and programs.
Branch Dental Clinic License
The branch clinic license is the best option for dentists looking to open branches in multiple areas of Dubai.
Conditions for Obtaining a Dental License in Dubai
To get a dental license, you must fulfil the following requirements.
- A dental degree, such as Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), or other relevant degrees.
- UAE graduates must submit a certified degree from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOSHER).
- Complete a one-year internship after the completion of post-graduate dental education.
- Another condition for obtaining a dental license is having a certified dental license from your home country. The license acts as proof of qualification and eligibility to practice.
- If you have done a PhD, the program’s duration must be three years, as it acts as proof of your specialty in your field.
Once the above conditions are fulfilled, you can begin the dentist license application process.
How to Start a Dental Clinic in Dubai?
Follow the steps below to start a dental clinic in Dubai.
Obtain Prior Approval
You need to get prior approval from the DHA by submitting the necessary documents. The documents include a business plan, the location of the dental clinic, copies of passports and visas, along with educational certificates.
Select Business Entity
You must select an appropriate business entity for your dental clinic, such as a corporation, sole proprietorship, or partnership. The entity must reflect the clinic’s vision and fulfil the required guidelines.
Choose a Business Name
You need to select a business name and get its approval from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).
Select a Location
Select an appropriate location in line with DHA’s guidelines, as this is a crucial step in the smooth setup of your company in the healthcare market.
Pay License Fee
Pay the required license fee, which varies by location, clinic type, and other factors. You can get an exact quote from the Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA).
Apply for a Professional License
For an independent dentist wishing to provide dental services in Dubai, the appropriate license is a professional license.
Ensure Compliance
Once you have completed all the above-mentioned formalities, the DHA will examine and ensure that you are in compliance with the authority’s regulations.
Acquire Insurance
The last step is applying for insurance for your dental clinic in Dubai. The insurance helps cover any future accidents and liabilities.
By fulfilling the above-mentioned steps, you can obtain a dental clinic license without any trouble.
A valid license not only helps establish a dental clinic but also ensures compliance with the Dubai Health Authority.
Documents Required to Start a Dental Clinic in Dubai
To open a dental clinic in Dubai, you must prepare the following documents:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Emirates ID
- DHA application forms
- Clinic floor plan (approved)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Professional license (for medical staff), educational certificates and experience letter.
What are the Costs Involved in Opening a Dental Clinic in Dubai?
The dental clinic involves several expenses. Here is a breakdown of the costs in detail:
- DHA approval charges. Includes facility approvals and staff licenses.
- Trade License Fee. Registration fee of the dental company.
- Medical Equipment. Dental chairs, sterilisation tools, x-ray machines, tools and other equipment.
- Interior Designs. Rooms, partition designs, sterilisation areas and patient waiting areas.
- Rent. Rent depends on the clinic’s location and space.
- Staff Salaries. Dentists, nurses, technicians and receptionists.
- Renewals and Maintenance. Yearly license renewal, equipment maintenance and medical waste contracts.
Additionally, you can contact Al Riyady for a complete estimate for your clinic.
Approvals to Open a Dental Clinic in Dubai
To legally run your dental clinic, you must get the following approvals:
- Clinic trade license
- DHA facility approval
- Professional licenses for hired dentists and medical staff.
- Permits for facilities, including waste management permits and safety compliance.
Key Considerations for a Dubai Dental Clinic
- Entrepreneurs can get 100% ownership in mainland or free zones under certain conditions.
- Dental health clinics must follow strict DHA protocols for documentation, operations and facility.
- Consider hiring business setup consultants to navigate the complex business process.
Start Your Dental Clinic with Al Riyady
Al Riyady is the top consultancy company that can streamline the process of obtaining business licenses, necessary approvals, and permits. We can ensure your documents are submitted on time, streamlining the process. Our other services include:
- Business setup in the mainland and free zones
- Golden Visa
- Business licenses
- PRO Services
- Digital Marketing
- Bank Account Opening
Endnotes
In the end, we can say that this article answered your question on how to start a dental clinic in Dubai. It is the best opportunity for healthcare professionals, dentists and investors. Healthcare is one of the top industries in Dubai, and demand for experienced professionals, including dentists, is increasing. With our expert support, the process becomes easier, as we help you secure all approvals on time while you focus on business growth.
