If you want to work in the healthcare field in Dubai, getting a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license is a must. But who exactly can apply for it? Let’s break it down in simple words.
1. Healthcare Professionals
The DHA license is mainly for healthcare workers. This includes:
- Doctors – General practitioners, specialists, and consultants
- Nurses and Midwives – Registered nurses and midwives
- Pharmacists – Both hospital and community pharmacists
- Allied Health Professionals – Physiotherapists, radiologists, lab technicians, dietitians, and more
2. Educational Requirements
You need the proper education and training for your profession. For example:
- Doctors must have a recognized medical degree
- Nurses must have a nursing diploma or degree
- Allied health professionals must have a degree or diploma in their field
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3. Work Experience
Some healthcare jobs require work experience. For instance:
- Specialists and consultants usually need several years of experience
- Nurses and general practitioners may need 1–2 years of experience
4. Professional Exams
Most applicants need to pass the DHA exam for their profession. This ensures you meet the quality and safety standards required in Dubai’s healthcare system.
5. Good Conduct
You must have a clean professional and legal record. Any history of malpractice or legal issues can affect eligibility.
6. Additional Requirements
Depending on your profession, you may need:
- Proof of your qualifications and certificates
- Experience letters from previous employers
- A valid passport and visa
Can non-UAE residents apply?
Yes! Non-UAE residents can apply for a DHA license, but there are a few conditions:
- You must have a valid UAE visa (like a work visa or a residence visa).
- You need to meet all the educational and professional requirements for your profession.
- You must provide the necessary documents, such as degrees, experience letters, and passports.
In short, being a non-resident does not automatically disqualify you, but you must fulfill all the DHA rules to get licensed and work legally in Dubai’s healthcare sector.
Can someone with a legal or professional record apply?
Generally, no. If you have a legal or professional record, it can affect your eligibility for a DHA license. Here’s what that means:
- Professional record: Any history of malpractice, disciplinary action, or professional negligence may prevent you from getting licensed.
- Legal record: Criminal convictions or ongoing legal cases can also disqualify you.
The DHA’s main goal is to ensure patient safety and high standards in healthcare, so they require applicants to have a clean professional and legal history.
Some minor issues may be reviewed case by case, but serious records usually make you ineligible.
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Have questions about your medical license or facility setup? Contact us today and let’s make your journey seamless!
Can fresh graduates apply for a DHA license?
Fresh graduates usually cannot get a full DHA license for practicing as a doctor. DHA generally requires:
- A recognized medical degree
- Completion of internship/house job
- At least 2 years of clinical experience after internship
- Valid home-country license and Good Standing Certificate
Fresh graduates may only work in observer, trainee, or research roles, but not as fully licensed physicians. To get a full DHA license, you need to gain the required clinical experience first.
Are there age limits to apply?
For a DHA license, there is no strict upper or lower age limit mentioned for most healthcare professionals. What matters more are:
- Qualifications (recognized medical degree or relevant health qualification)
- Required clinical experience (usually 2+ years for doctors after internship)
- Good standing with your home-country medical council or licensing body
So, as long as you meet the education, experience, and documentation requirements, age is generally not a barrier.
Conclusion
If you are a qualified healthcare professional with the right education, experience, and clean record, you can apply for a DHA license. It’s your key to legally work in Dubai’s healthcare sector and ensure patient safety and quality care. Contact Us
Frequently Ask Questions
1. Who needs a DHA license?
All healthcare professionals working in Dubai must hold a valid DHA license.
2. How do I apply for a DHA license?
Create an account on the DHA Sheryan portal, submit your documents, and complete the required assessments.
3. What documents are required?
You’ll need your passport, qualifications, experience letters, professional license, and a recent photo.
4. How long does approval take?
Processing times vary, but most applications move forward within a few weeks once all documents are complete.
5. Do I need to take an exam?
Many healthcare roles require a DHA exam or an interview, depending on your specialty and experience.
6. How do I renew my DHA license?
Log in to Sheryan, update your details, upload renewal documents, and submit your request before it expires.
