If you’re a healthcare professional in India planning to work in Dubai, you must obtain a DHA license. DHA, or Dubai Health Authority, issues this license, which lets doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other medical staff practice legally in Dubai.
The process may appear complicated at first, but there’s no need to worry. By following each step carefully, it becomes much simpler. Let’s break it down in easy-to-understand terms.
Step 1: Check If You Are Eligible
Before starting the application, make sure you meet the DHA eligibility criteria.
Generally, you need:
- A recognized medical degree or diploma
- A valid professional license from India
- Relevant work experience (usually 2 years after internship, depending on your profession)
Each medical field has slightly different requirements, so it’s important to check the official DHA guidelines for your category.
Step 2: Create an Account on the Sheryan Portal
All DHA applications are done online through the DHA Sheryan portal.
You need to:
- Create an account
- Select your professional category (doctor, nurse, dentist, etc.)
- Fill in your personal and professional details
Make sure you enter everything correctly because wrong information can delay your application.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
You will be required to submit scanned copies of key documents, including:
- Passport copy
- Educational certificates
- Internship certificate
- Experience letters
- Valid professional license from India
- Good Standing Certificate
- Updated CV
All documents must be clear and valid. Some may need to be attested, so check the instructions carefully.
Step 4: DataFlow Verification
After submitting your documents, you must complete Primary Source Verification (PSV) through DataFlow.
This step checks whether your:
- Degree is genuine
- Experience is real
- License is valid
DataFlow contacts your university and previous employers to verify your details. This process usually takes a few weeks. It is very important, so make sure all information is correct.
Step 5: DHA Exam (If Required)
Most professionals must pass the DHA licensing exam.
The exam:
- Is computer-based
- Has multiple-choice questions
- Is conducted through Prometric centers (available in India)
You can choose a Prometric center near you in India. If you pass the exam, you move to the next stage. If not, you can reattempt (limited attempts allowed).
Step 6: Get Eligibility Letter
Once:
- Your DataFlow is cleared
- You pass the exam
DHA will issue an Eligibility Letter.
This letter means you are approved to work in Dubai, but you still need a job offer from a healthcare facility to activate your license.
The eligibility letter is usually valid for one year.
Step 7: License Activation (After Job Offer)
After getting a job in Dubai:
- Your employer will apply for your license activation
- You will submit additional documents if required
- Pay the license fees
Once approved, your DHA license becomes active, and you can legally start working in Dubai.
Important Tips
- Keep all documents updated and accurate.
- Use the same name spelling in all documents.
- Make sure your experience letters include exact dates and job roles.
- Track your application regularly on the portal.
If you feel confused, you can also take help from professional DHA licensing consultants in India.
Do I need a job offer before applying for the DHA license?
No, you do not necessarily need a job offer before applying for the DHA license from India. You can begin the application process on your own by creating a DHA account, submitting your documents for Primary Source Verification (PSV), and applying for eligibility. Many healthcare professionals complete the exam and receive their Eligibility Letter before searching for a job in Dubai. However, once you secure a job, your employer will help activate your license. So, in simple terms, a job offer is not required to start the DHA process, but you will need one later to activate and work legally in Dubai.
How long does the DHA licensing process take?
The DHA licensing process normally takes around 2 to 4 months from the time you start your application until you can work with an active licence. Most of this time is spent on checking your documents (called DataFlow verification), scheduling and passing the required exam, and then getting the final approval. After you have a job offer, activating the licence usually takes a couple of weeks more.
Can I transfer my DHA license to another emirate?
Yes, you cannot directly use a DHA license in another emirate. Each emirate in the UAE has its own health authority DHA for Dubai, DOH for Abu Dhabi, and MOHAP for other emirates like Sharjah or Ajman.
Conclusion
Applying for a DHA license from India may feel overwhelming at first, but it is completely manageable if you follow each step carefully. Thousands of Indian healthcare professionals complete this process every year and successfully move to Dubai for better career opportunities.
Faqs
1. What is a DHA license?
A DHA license is official approval from the Dubai Health Authority that allows healthcare professionals to work legally in Dubai.
2. Who needs a DHA license?
Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and allied health professionals must obtain a license before practicing in Dubai.
3. What are the main steps in the DHA license process?
Create a Sheryan account, submit documents, complete DataFlow verification, pass the exam if required, and apply for final license activation.
4. How long does the DHA license application take?
The process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on document verification and exam scheduling.
5. Is work experience required for a DHA license?
Yes, most healthcare roles require a minimum number of years of relevant clinical experience.
6. Can I transfer my DHA license to another emirate?
Licenses are emirate specific, but you may apply for a transfer through the appropriate health authority if you move.
