What Are the Requirements for the Dubai HAAD Exam?

If you’re a healthcare professional aiming to work in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly in Abu Dhabi or Al Ain, one essential step is passing the HAAD exam. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), formerly known as the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD), regulates this process. Despite the name, many professionals mistakenly associate it with licensing in Dubai. To clarify, Dubai is governed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), while Abu Dhabi and Al Ain fall under the HAAD system. However, due to frequent confusion, the term Dubai HAAD exam is often used online, though it technically refers to two different licensing authorities.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the complete requirements for the HAAD exam, helping you navigate your way toward a healthcare career in the UAE.

1. Who Needs the HAAD License?

Any healthcare professional intending to work in Abu Dhabi or Al Ain—whether doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab technicians, or allied health professionals—must obtain a HAAD license. This license ensures that you meet the standards for clinical practice and patient safety set by the Department of Health.

2. Educational and Professional Qualifications

You must fulfill certain professional and educational requirements in order to apply for the HAAD exam:

• Recognized Degree or Diploma: You should hold a relevant qualification from a recognized medical or healthcare institution. The program should match UAE standards in terms of curriculum and duration.
• Work Experience:
  • Physicians and specialists often require two to three years of experience following an internship.
  • After graduation, nurses and other allied health professionals typically need two years of clinical experience.
  • Pharmacists and Dentists: May also be required to present a minimum of 2 years of experience.
    

Some categories may have exemptions or alternative routes depending on your country of origin, the institution where you studied, and the nature of your previous employment.

3. Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow

Before you can sit for the HAAD exam, your credentials must be verified through the DataFlow Group, which provides Primary Source Verification (PSV). This is a mandatory step where your documents are authenticated directly from their issuing bodies.

Documents typically verified include:

• Educational certificates
  
• Professional licenses
  
• Employment records
  
• A regulatory body’s certificate of good standing

PSV ensures that applicants are genuine and qualified for safe healthcare practice in the UAE.

4. HAAD Exam Application Process

This is a detailed description of how to apply for the HAAD exam:

1. Register on the DoH Abu Dhabi website.
2. Submit the required documents, including:
   • Passport copy
     
   • Recent passport-size photo
     
   • Academic and professional certificates
     
   • Experience letters
     
   • Updated resume
3. Initiate DataFlow Verification through the same portal.
   
4. Pay the application and exam fees (fee varies by profession).
   
5. Once verified and approved, you’ll receive an eligibility number.
   
6. Schedule your exam via Pearson VUE, the official testing partner.
   

5. The HAAD Exam Format

The exam is typically computer-based and varies depending on your profession. For example:

• Nurses may face 100–150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) within 2–3 hours.
• Questions about clinical situations and medical ethics may come up for doctors.
• The pass mark is usually 60–70%, depending on the specialty.
  

The exam tests your practical knowledge, critical thinking, and familiarity with international best practices.

6. Post-Exam Requirements

You will receive a professional license to practice in Abu Dhabi or Al Ain after passing the HAAD exam. You can then start job hunting or process your employment contract with a licensed facility.

Note: Dubai and other Emirates are not covered by this license. If you later plan to work in Dubai, you must apply separately for the DHA license or opt for the Unified Healthcare License under the PQR (Professional Qualification Requirements) framework.

Conclusion

A vital step for any doctor or medical practitioner wanting to work in Abu Dhabi or Al Ain is the HAAD exam. While the process might seem rigorous—especially with the DataFlow verification and exam prep—it’s a testament to the UAE’s commitment to quality healthcare.

With the right documents, adequate preparation, and a clear understanding of the process, you can take this important step toward advancing your career in one of the world’s fastest-growing healthcare systems. Contact For Detail Montgo Health

Frequently Ask Questions

Q. Who is eligible for the DHA exam in India?

A. Indian healthcare professionals with recognized qualifications, valid registration from their home country, and relevant work experience (usually 2 years) are eligible to apply for the DHA exam through Dubai Health Authority.

Q. How many attempts for DHA?

A. You are allowed three attempts to pass the DHA exam. After the third unsuccessful attempt, you must wait one year before reapplying.

Q. Who is eligible for the HAAD exam in the UAE?

A. Healthcare professionals with accredited qualifications, valid professional licenses, and a minimum of two years of relevant clinical experience can apply for the HAAD (now DoH) exam in Abu Dhabi.

Q. Is a HAAD license accepted in Dubai?

A. No, a HAAD (DoH) license is not directly accepted in Dubai. However, you can transfer or convert your license by applying through the DHA, submitting verification documents, and possibly passing the DHA exam.

Q. Can I write the DHA exam without experience in India?

A. Typically, a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience is required to be eligible for the DHA exam. Candidates without experience may not qualify, unless applying for certain entry-level or support roles with lower requirements.