Obtaining a license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is not merely a formality; it is a crucial DHA License Requirement for any healthcare professional hoping to practice in Dubai. The DHA license is a legal permit that ensures only qualified professionals are allowed to work in the emirate’s rapidly growing healthcare sector. Whether you work as a physician, nurse, pharmacist, or other allied health professional, this guide will help you find out if you meet the DHA License Requirement and qualify for a DHA license. Blogs
Who Needs a DHA License?
All medical personnel operating in the Emirate of Dubai are required to hold a DHA license. This includes:
- Physicians (General Practitioners and Specialists)
- Dentists
- Nurses and Midwives
- Pharmacists
- Allied health professionals, such as lab technicians, physiotherapists, and radiologists
It’s important to note that if you wish to work in other emirates like Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, you’ll need to apply for licenses through the respective health authorities—HAAD or MOH.
Educational Qualifications
The first requirement for eligibility is your educational background. DHA requires that applicants hold a recognized and accredited degree in their respective field.
- Doctors must hold an MBBS/MD degree from a recognized medical university.
- Nurses must have completed a Bachelor’s or Diploma in Nursing.
- An undergraduate degree in pharmacy is required of pharmacists..
- Allied Health Professionals should have at least a diploma or degree in their respective area of specialization.
In most cases, DHA maintains a list of recognized universities and institutions. If your degree is from an unrecognized or unlisted university, you may face rejection.
Professional Experience
Clinical experience is highly valued by DHA in addition to your academic credentials. The minimum required experience is:
- Doctors: Minimum of 2 years post-internship experience for General Practitioners; more for specialists.
- Nurses and Midwives: At least 2 years of recent clinical experience.
- Allied health professionals and pharmacists must have at least two years of experience in their specialty.
This experience must be continuous and verifiable, preferably from a licensed healthcare facility.
Licensing Examination
To assess your competency, DHA mandates a Prometric-based assessment for most applicants. This computer-based test evaluates your theoretical knowledge and clinical judgment.
- You have to use the DHA Sheryan site to sign up.
- Once your documents have been verified, you will be given an eligibility ID to schedule the test.
- Depending on your job and area of expertise, the exam is different.
Upon passing, you’ll move on to the final stages of licensure.
Good Standing Certificate
A Good Standing Certificate (GSC) from your home country or any other country where you have practiced is also required. This document assures the DHA that you have no outstanding complaints or malpractice claims and have worked professionally during your previous practice.
Language Proficiency
While there is no formal English test requirement like IELTS for DHA, it’s crucial to have a good command of English, as it is the primary language used in most hospitals and clinics in Dubai. Your communication skills will be indirectly assessed during your application and possibly during interviews.
Document Verification
DHA uses DataFlow to verify the authenticity of your educational certificates, work experience, and license. This Primary Source Verification (PSV) process is mandatory and may take several weeks. If your documents are found to be inaccurate or fake, your application will be rejected permanently.
Final Steps
After passing the Prometric exam and clearing the DataFlow verification, you’ll be asked to submit additional documents, pay the required fees, and attend a personal interview (if applicable). Once everything is approved, you will be issued a DHA license to practice in Dubai.
Conclusion
Getting a DHA license is a multi-step process, but it ensures that only qualified, experienced, and ethical professionals are part of Dubai’s healthcare system. If you meet the education, experience, and verification criteria, you’re well on your way to a rewarding career in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Contact Montgo Health
Frequently Ask Questions
1. How to get a DHA license in India?
To get a DHA license from India, you must apply online through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) portal. This involves creating a Sheryan account, uploading required documents, verifying your credentials via DataFlow, passing the Prometric DHA exam, and receiving eligibility to work in Dubai.
2. What is the minimum qualification for DHA?
The minimum qualification for the DHA license varies by profession. For doctors, a basic medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) and an internship are required. Nurses and allied health professionals must hold relevant diplomas or degrees from accredited institutions.
3. What are the qualifications for DHA?
Candidates must have a recognized medical or healthcare qualification, a valid professional license from their home country, a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience (for most categories), and must pass the DHA Prometric exam and primary source verification (DataFlow).
4. How to clear the DHA exam in India?
To clear the DHA exam, study the syllabus relevant to your profession, use DHA-specific preparation materials, take practice tests, and review past questions. Enroll in coaching or online courses if needed. The exam is held online at Prometric centers across India.
5. What is the cost of a DHA exam in India?
The DHA exam costs approximately ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 INR, depending on the profession and test center. Additional fees may include DataFlow verification (₹30,000–₹45,000 INR) and application fees.
6. How to do PG in Dubai after MBBS in India?
To pursue postgraduate medical studies in Dubai, clear the DHA or MOH licensing exam, apply to accredited teaching hospitals or universities in the UAE, and meet eligibility requirements (including internship and clinical experience). Some programs may also require TOEFL/IELTS scores and entrance tests.