If you’re a doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional in India and looking to build a rewarding career in Dubai, the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) licensing exam is your first step. The UAE’s growing healthcare sector offers exciting opportunities, tax-free income, and world-class infrastructure—but only licensed professionals can practice legally.

Fortunately, Indian professionals can now apply and appear for the DHA exam from India itself. This blog breaks down everything you need to know for 2025—from exam dates and application process to fees, Prometric test centers, and eligibility.

DHA Exam Dates 2025 in India

The DHA exam is not conducted on fixed annual dates. Instead, it is offered year-round at various Prometric test centers across India. You can choose your preferred date and location based on availability.

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Key Points:

  • Registration is open throughout the year.

  • After your DataFlow verification is approved, you will be eligible to schedule your Prometric exam.

  • You can log in to the Prometric scheduling portal and book any available date in 2025.

  • It is recommended to book your slot at least 1–2 months in advance, as slots fill up quickly in major cities.

How to Apply for DHA Exam from India

Applying for the DHA exam involves a step-by-step process and can be completed entirely online from India. Here’s a detailed guide:

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Create a Sheryan Account

    • Visit the DHA Sheryan portal and create a new account. This is where all applications and updates will be managed.

  2. Submit Required Documents

    • Upload scanned copies of your:

      • Degree certificate(s)

      • Internship certificate

      • Medical/Pharmacy license from India

      • Good Standing Certificate (valid within 6 months)

      • Passport-size photograph and ID proof

  3. Initiate DataFlow Verification

    • The DHA uses the DataFlow Group to verify your educational and professional credentials. This is mandatory before scheduling your exam.

  4. Pay Fees Online

    • Application and DataFlow fees must be paid online during registration.

  5. Wait for Verification Approval

    • Once your documents are verified, you’ll receive a reference number and eligibility to schedule the exam.

  6. Book the DHA Prometric Exam

    • Choose your preferred test center and date from available options in India.

DHA Prometric Exam Center in India

DHA exams are conducted through Prometric, a global testing organization with several test centers in India.

Popular Prometric Exam Centers in India:

  • New Delhi

  • Mumbai

  • Chennai

  • Bangalore

  • Hyderabad

  • Kolkata

  • Ahmedabad

  • Pune

  • Trivandrum

  • Coimbatore

You can check the Prometric website for live availability and choose your nearest center. These centers are well-equipped and follow standardized procedures similar to any international exam.

DHA Exam Fees in India for Pharmacist

For Indian pharmacists applying for the DHA exam in 2025, the costs involved are generally as follows:

Fee Breakdown:

  1. DataFlow Verification:

    • ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 (depending on how many documents you need verified)

  2. DHA Application Fee:

    • Approx. AED 220–250 (~₹5,000–₹6,000)

  3. Prometric Exam Fee:

    • Around USD 110–130 (~₹9,000–₹11,000)

Total Estimated Cost for Pharmacists:

➡️ ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 (including taxes and currency fluctuations)

💡 Note: These costs may vary slightly depending on the current exchange rates and DHA fee updates in 2025.

How to Appear for DHA Exam from India

Once your application and document verification are approved, here’s how you can appear for the DHA exam while staying in India:

1. Schedule the Exam via Prometric Portal
  • Use your DHA eligibility ID to log in and schedule your exam.

2. Choose a Test Center
  • Select your nearest Prometric test center and confirm your time slot.

3. Prepare Well
  • The exam is MCQ-based, covers domain-specific knowledge, and is time-bound.

  • For pharmacists, topics include:

    • Pharmacology

    • Pharmacy law and ethics

    • Drug interactions and side effects

    • Calculations and compounding

4. Appear for the Exam
  • Carry valid ID (passport or Aadhaar), confirmation email, and reach at least 30 minutes early on exam day.

5. Get Results
  • Results are typically declared within 3–5 business days. If you pass, you’ll receive an Eligibility Letter valid for 1 year to find a job in Dubai.

DHA Exam for Indian Doctors

For Indian doctors, the DHA exam is an opportunity to work in one of the most developed healthcare systems in the Middle East.

Eligibility for Doctors:

  • MBBS or MD/MS degree from a recognized university

  • Minimum 2 years of clinical experience after internship

  • Medical Registration Certificate (MCI or State Council)

  • Valid Good Standing Certificate

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Specializations in Demand:

  • General Practitioners

  • Internal Medicine

  • Pediatrics

  • Gynecology

  • Anesthesiology

  • Emergency Medicine

DHA Exam for Doctors – Key Info:

  • Duration: 2 hours

  • Format: MCQ-based

  • Subjects: Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Pharmacology, etc.

  • Passing Score: Generally 60–70%

After passing the exam and receiving your eligibility letter, you can apply to hospitals and clinics in Dubai. Once hired, your employer will help you convert it into a full DHA license.

With increasing demand for healthcare professionals in Dubai, the DHA exam offers Indian doctors and pharmacists a strong career pathway. The process may seem overwhelming at first, but thanks to online registration and test centers across India, it’s now more accessible than ever.

Whether you’re a pharmacist, doctor, or other allied health professional, the key is to prepare early, complete your documentation accurately, and book your exam slot in advance.

Start your DHA journey today—Dubai is waiting for qualified professionals like you!


Frequently Ask Questions

Q. What is the cost of a DHA exam in India?

A. The total cost of the DHA exam process from India typically ranges between ₹25,000 to ₹40,000, depending on your profession and the number of documents submitted for verification.

Fee Breakdown:

  • DataFlow Verification: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000

  • Application & Registration Fee: ₹5,000 – ₹6,000

  • Prometric Exam Fee: ₹9,000 – ₹11,000
    Additional costs may include translation or document attestation fees.

Q. What is the pass mark for DHA exam in India?

A. The DHA Prometric exam requires a minimum passing score of around 60–70%, depending on the category of healthcare professional.

  • Nurses and Pharmacists: Typically 60%

  • Doctors and Specialists: Often 70%
    There is no negative marking, and the exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q. How to prepare for the DHA exam in India?

A. Here’s how to effectively prepare for the DHA exam while in India:

Steps to Prepare:

  • Understand the Syllabus: Review the DHA exam content related to your profession (nursing, pharmacy, medicine, etc.).

  • Use DHA-specific Question Banks: Solve MCQs from past papers and practice tests.

  • Enroll in Coaching (Optional): Some institutes in India offer DHA-focused training for nurses and pharmacists.

  • Use Reference Books: Study books used in nursing competitive exams (like NCLEX or AIIMS).

  • Practice Time Management: Simulate mock tests under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.

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

A. Indian nurses must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for the DHA exam:

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Diploma or B.Sc. in Nursing from a recognized institution

  • Valid nursing license from Indian Nursing Council or State Council

  • Minimum 2 years of clinical experience post-qualification

  • Good Standing Certificate issued within the last 6 months

  • All credentials must be verified through DataFlow

Q. How much is the nurse’s salary in Dubai?

A. Nurse salaries in Dubai vary by experience, qualification, and the type of healthcare facility.

Average Monthly Salary for Nurses in Dubai:

  • Registered Nurse (Diploma): AED 4,000 – 6,000 (₹90,000 – ₹1,35,000)

  • B.Sc. Nurses (with experience): AED 6,000 – 8,000 (₹1.35 – ₹1.8 lakhs)

  • Specialized or ICU Nurses: AED 8,000 – 10,000 or more
    In addition, nurses often receive benefits like housing, transportation, and medical insurance.

Q. Which country pays nurses the most?

A. Here are some of the highest-paying countries for nurses globally:

Country Average Annual Salary (INR equivalent)
USA ₹65 – ₹90 lakhs
Canada ₹55 – ₹75 lakhs
Australia ₹50 – ₹70 lakhs
Switzerland ₹80 – ₹100 lakhs
UAE/Dubai ₹12 – ₹22 lakhs

💡 Note: Salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and licensing. Countries like the USA and Canada require clearing additional exams like NCLEX or CRNE.