Dubai has emerged as one of the leading global hubs for medical professionals, offering competitive salaries, modern healthcare facilities, and a high quality of life. If you’re looking to practice in Dubai’s thriving healthcare sector, obtaining a DHA license is your first step. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) requires all healthcare professionals to be licensed before they can work legally in the emirate.

In this comprehensive guide—brought to you by Montgo Health, a trusted name in healthcare recruitment and licensing—you’ll learn everything you need to know about DHA license registration, from timelines and requirements to application procedures. Blogs

What is a DHA License?

A DHA license is an official approval issued by the Dubai Health Authority that allows medical professionals to practice in licensed healthcare facilities within the Emirate of Dubai. It ensures that doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health workers meet the standards and qualifications required by the UAE government.

Without a DHA license, no healthcare worker can legally provide services in Dubai. Whether you’re a general practitioner, a nurse, or a specialist, obtaining this license is mandatory.

Ready to Start Your Medical Career in UAE?

Have questions about your medical license or facility setup? Contact us today and let’s make your journey seamless!

How Long Does It Take to Get a DHA License?

The complete DHA licensing process typically takes between 2 to 4 months, depending on how quickly your documents are verified and how soon you pass the required exams. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • DataFlow Verification: 4–6 weeks

  • Exam Scheduling & Results: 2–3 weeks

  • Final License Issuance: 1–2 weeks after a job offer is secured

Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or if additional reviews are needed. Montgo Health can help expedite the process by ensuring your application is complete and compliant from the beginning.

dha license registration

How to Apply for DHA License

The DHA license application process is now entirely digital and streamlined through the Sheryan Portal, DHA’s official online licensing system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Create a Sheryan Account
    Visit the Sheryan DHA Portal and register as a new user.

  2. Submit Your Documents
    Upload scanned copies of your passport, degree, experience letters, and license to practice. These documents will be sent for Primary Source Verification through the DataFlow Group.

  3. Schedule Your Prometric Exam
    Once documents are verified, you’ll receive eligibility to book the DHA exam relevant to your profession.

  4. Pass the Exam
    Attend and pass the computer-based DHA exam, which is conducted at Prometric centers worldwide, including in India.

  5. Apply for Job & License Activation
    After passing the exam, secure a job offer. Your employer will then submit the final documents for license issuance.

Montgo Health simplifies this process by managing every step on your behalf—from portal registration to final activation—ensuring a stress-free experience.

DHA License Requirements

The documents required for DHA license registration include:

  • Valid Passport Copy

  • Recent Passport-sized Photograph

  • Educational Certificates (degree/diploma)

  • Experience Certificates (minimum 2 years post-graduation)

  • Professional License from home country

  • Good Standing Certificate (issued within the last 6 months)

  • DataFlow Report for credential verification

  • Transcript of Records (for nurses and pharmacists)

  • English Proficiency Test (if requested)

Note: All documents must be in English or translated by an official translator.

DHA Exam Registration for Doctors

If you’re a doctor applying for a DHA license, registering for the DHA exam is one of the most critical steps. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Eligibility Review: Submit your qualifications and experience through the Sheryan portal.

  • Receive Exam Approval: Once your documents are verified via DataFlow, you’ll be granted permission to take the exam.

  • Book the DHA Exam: The test is conducted by Prometric, and you can choose the nearest center in India or the UAE.

  • Exam Format: The exam is computer-based and consists of 70–100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on medical knowledge, ethics, and patient care.

  • Exam Fee: Ranges between AED 260–350 depending on the specialty.

Doctors are advised to begin preparation early. Montgo Health offers access to mock exams, revision materials, and coaching services specifically tailored for DHA exam success.

Ready to Start Your Medical Career in UAE?

Have questions about your medical license or facility setup? Contact us today and let’s make your journey seamless!

DHA License Requirements for Doctors

Doctors must meet additional qualifications and submit specific documents to be eligible for DHA licensing:

  • MBBS or Equivalent Medical Degree

  • Postgraduate Specialization (for specialists)

  • Minimum Experience:

    • 2 years for General Practitioners

    • 3–5 years for Specialists and Consultants

  • Specialist Certification: Board certification (e.g., MRCP, FRCS, USMLE, etc.) may be required for certain roles

  • Continuous Medical Education (CME) records may also be needed for senior roles

Montgo Health provides personalized guidance for doctors, helping with document preparation, license category selection (GP, Specialist, or Consultant), and job placements in leading hospitals across Dubai.

Why Choose Montgo Health for DHA Licensing?

Montgo Health is a specialized healthcare recruitment and licensing agency with years of experience helping medical professionals from India, the Philippines, Egypt, Pakistan, and beyond start successful careers in Dubai. Their services include:

  • Full support with DHA/MOH/HAAD license registration

  • DataFlow verification assistance

  • DHA exam coaching and resources

  • Job placement with top-tier hospitals and clinics

  • End-to-end relocation support

By working with Montgo Health, candidates avoid costly delays, document errors, and failed applications. You gain peace of mind knowing that experts are handling your DHA license process professionally.

Securing your DHA license is a vital step toward starting a rewarding medical career in Dubai. Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, pharmacist, or allied health worker, understanding the application process, requirements, and timelines can make all the difference.

Partnering with an expert agency like Montgo Health ensures that you receive accurate guidance, timely updates, and career placement support tailored to your qualifications. With the right preparation and professional help, your dream of working in Dubai’s world-class healthcare system is well within reach.


Frequently Ask Questions

Q. Who is eligible for a DHA license in Dubai?

A. Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and allied health workers with recognized qualifications and relevant experience are eligible to apply for a DHA license.

Q. What are the qualifications for DHA?

A. Applicants must have a medical or healthcare degree/diploma from a recognized institution and at least 2 years of post-qualification clinical experience, along with a valid license from their home country.

Q. Can I write a DHA exam in India?

A. Yes, the DHA exam is conducted globally, including Prometric centers in India, allowing candidates to take the test without traveling abroad.

Q. Which is better, MOH or DHA?

A. Both MOH (Ministry of Health UAE) and DHA licenses are valid but apply to different Emirates; DHA is for Dubai, while MOH covers other Emirates. Choose based on your intended work location.

Q. How much is the registration fee for DHA?

A. The DHA license registration and exam fees vary but typically range from AED 300 to AED 600 depending on profession and license category.

Q. Who is exempted from DHA exam?

A. Doctors and healthcare professionals licensed in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand may be exempted from the DHA exam after verification.