If you’re a healthcare professional in India dreaming of working in Dubai, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and lab techs set their sights on the UAE for better career opportunities, better infrastructure, and tax-free salaries. But before you pack your bags, there’s a big milestone to cross: the DHA license exam.
The good news? You don’t have to go all the way to Dubai to take the test. You can do it right here in India. Blogs
Let’s break everything down—from where you can take the exam to how much it costs, what to expect in the test, and even if you can get the license without the exam.
DHA License Exam Center in India
Let’s start with where the exam actually happens. The DHA license exam is conducted by Prometric, a global testing company with authorized centers in India. This means you don’t have to fly to Dubai just to write the test—you can do it locally.
Here are some of the common exam centers in India:
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Delhi NCR (Noida, Gurgaon)
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Mumbai
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Hyderabad
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Bangalore
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Chennai
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Kolkata
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Ahmedabad
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Cochin
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Trivandrum
These are professional, computer-based testing centers where you’ll sit for the exam in a timed, controlled setting. Once your application is approved by DHA and you receive your Eligibility Letter, you’ll be able to choose your preferred center and schedule your exam.
DHA License Exam Fees in Indian Rupees
Now, let’s talk money. The process isn’t cheap, but considering the career boost and salary hike that comes with a DHA license, it’s definitely worth the investment.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the expenses in Indian rupees:
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DataFlow Verification: ₹20,000 to ₹27,000
(This is a background check to verify your degrees and work experience.) -
Prometric Exam Fee: ₹23,000 to ₹25,000
(Paid when booking the actual exam date.) -
DHA Application Fee: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000
(Paid while registering on the DHA Sheryan portal.) -
Optional Self-Assessment Test: ₹4,500 to ₹6,000
(Useful if you want to check your readiness before taking the real exam.)
So in total, expect to spend around ₹50,000 to ₹60,000, depending on your specialty and the number of documents you’re submitting. It might sound like a lot upfront, but many healthcare workers recover this cost within their first month of working in Dubai.
DHA License Full Form
For those just getting started, let’s clarify what DHA actually means.
DHA stands for Dubai Health Authority. This is the government body responsible for managing and regulating the healthcare sector in Dubai. A DHA license is the official permission granted by the authority allowing you to work legally in Dubai’s hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies.
It’s similar to having a medical registration number in India—you simply can’t practice without it.
How Many Questions Are There in DHA Exam?
The exam itself is not something to take lightly. It’s not just a formality—it’s a proper test of your clinical knowledge and decision-making.
Here’s what to expect in terms of the number of questions:
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Doctors: 100 to 150 multiple choice questions (MCQs)
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Nurses: 70 to 100 MCQs
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Pharmacists & Allied Health: Typically 70 to 100 MCQs
The exact number varies depending on your category, but you’ll usually have around 2 to 3 hours to finish the test. It’s all done on a computer and based on clinical scenarios, rather than just memory-based questions.
You get your results almost instantly once you submit the test at the center.
Can We Write DHA Exam in India?
Yes, and this is one of the best things about the process now.
A few years ago, people had to travel to Dubai just to take the exam. That meant extra costs for flights, accommodation, and visas—without any guarantee of passing. But now, thanks to Prometric centers in India, you can take the DHA exam without leaving the country.
This is especially helpful for candidates who want to complete the exam before applying for jobs in Dubai. Once you pass, you receive an Eligibility Letter, which you can use to apply for positions in Dubai hospitals and clinics.
DHA License Without Exam – Is It Possible?
This is one of the most asked questions: Can I get a DHA license without actually taking the exam?
For most Indian professionals, the answer is no—the exam is mandatory. But there are a few exceptions:
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If you’re a board-certified specialist from countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or parts of Europe
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If you have a license from another UAE health authority (like MOH or HAAD) and you’re transferring to Dubai
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If your qualifications fall under DHA’s exempted universities or specialties (rare, but it happens)
So while the option exists, it’s not common for Indian healthcare professionals. Most candidates will need to go through the regular process—documents, verification, exam—and pass it to get licensed.
Montgo Health Helps You
The DHA licensing process is rewarding, but it’s also complex. Between collecting the right documents, clearing DataFlow, understanding Prometric bookings, and preparing for the actual exam—it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
That’s exactly where Montgo Health steps in.
We specialize in helping healthcare professionals in India make their DHA journey smooth and stress-free. Here’s what we do:
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✅ We check your eligibility so you don’t waste time or money
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✅ We guide your documents to avoid common mistakes
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✅ We help with Prometric registration and finding a test center near you
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✅ We offer prep material and mock tests so you feel confident
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✅ We support you till your license is approved and you’re ready to work in Dubai
Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or lab technician—Montgo Health is here to help you every step of the way.
A DHA license is your passport to a fulfilling medical career in Dubai. With better pay, global exposure, and excellent work conditions, the opportunities are endless. And the best part? You don’t have to leave India to get started.
If you’re ready to take the next step, begin your journey with Montgo Health. We’ll help you get DHA-ready—with confidence, clarity, and care.
Frequently Ask Questions
Q. Can a DHA exam be given in India?
A. Yes, you can take the DHA exam in India. It’s conducted through Prometric testing centers in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. You don’t need to travel to Dubai just to write the exam.
Q. What is the cost of a DHA exam in India?
A. The total cost ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹60,000, which includes:
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DataFlow verification (₹20,000–₹27,000)
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Prometric exam fee (₹23,000–₹25,000)
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DHA application and admin charges (₹5,000–₹7,000)
Additional costs may apply if you choose to take a self-assessment test or need assistance with paperwork.
Q. How to clear the DHA exam in India?
A. To pass the DHA exam:
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Understand the syllabus and exam pattern for your category
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Study clinical guidelines and case-based questions
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Use DHA-specific mock tests and question banks
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Practice time management with online practice exams
Preparation and confidence are key. Most candidates pass with focused study over 4–6 weeks.
Q. What is the pass mark for DHA exam in India?
A. The general passing score is around 60% to 70%, depending on your profession. For doctors and specialists, it’s typically around 60%, but the exact cutoff can vary slightly by exam version or specialty.
Q. How many attempts for DHA?
A. You get three attempts to pass the DHA exam. If you don’t pass in three tries, you may be required to undergo additional training or apply through a different health authority in the UAE.
Q. How can I work in Dubai after BDS in India?
A. After completing BDS in India:
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Gain at least 2 years of clinical experience post-internship
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Start the DataFlow verification of your degree and license
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Apply for DHA eligibility on the Sheryan portal
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Pass the DHA Prometric exam for dentists
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Once you pass, apply for dental jobs in Dubai and secure a job offer
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Complete final licensing steps and medical fitness test in Dubai
With the DHA license in hand, you can legally work as a general dentist or pursue specializations depending on your credentials.