How Do You Apply for a Dubai Nurse License?

Are you a nurse hoping to work in Dubai’s thriving healthcare industry? You’re not alone. With its modern hospitals, international standards, and tax-free salaries, Dubai has become a popular destination for nurses around the world. But before you can start working, you need to obtain a license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) , the official regulatory body for health professionals in Dubai.

This blog post walks you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Dubai nurse license, what requirements to meet, and some useful tips to make your application smooth and successful.

1. Understand the DHA Licensing System

Dubai’s healthcare system is regulated by the DHA, which oversees licensing for all medical professionals including Registered Nurses (RN), Assistant Nurses, and Nurse Practitioners. The DHA license confirms that you meet the competency and qualification standards required to work in Dubai.

To begin, you must create an account on the Sheryan portal, which is the official DHA licensing platform.

2. Check Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, make sure you meet the minimum eligibility criteria:

• Nursing degree or diploma from a recognized institution

• A nursing degree or certificate from an accredited school

• At least 2 years of recent clinical experience (for RNs)

• Good Standing Certificate from your licensing authority (issued within the last 6 months)

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS with minimum 6.5 band or TOEFL equivalent, if applicable)
  

Note: If you’re from a non-English-speaking country, proof of language proficiency is compulsory.

3. Prepare Required Document

Gather the following documents in scanned PDF format:

• Passport copy

• Recent passport-sized photo (white background)

• Nursing degree/diploma and transcripts

• Nursing license (home country)

• Employment certificates showing clinical experience

• Good Standing Certificate

• English language certificate (if needed)
  

All documents should be attested by the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your country and the UAE embassy.

4. Create Your DHA Account on Sheryan

Go to the DHA Sheryan Portal and register.

Once registered, you can:

• Enter your professional and personal details.

• Upload your documents

• Pay the application cost, which is often between AED 200 and AED 250.
  

DHA will review your documents for Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow, which can take 4 to 6 weeks.

5. Pass the DHA Prometric Exam

After your documents are verified, you’ll be eligible to book the DHA Prometric Exam, which tests your theoretical knowledge in nursing.

• The exam has 70 multiple-choice questions

• Duration: 2 hours

• Passing score: 60% or above
  

You can book the exam online through the Prometric website.

Tip: Use reliable DHA exam preparation materials or courses to improve your chances of passing on the first attempt.

6. Get Your Eligibility Letter

Once you pass the exam, DHA will issue an Eligibility Letter, which means you are now eligible to work as a nurse in Dubai.

But remember this is not the final license. You still need to get employment with a DHA-approved healthcare facility, which will sponsor your residency visa and complete the final licensing process on your behalf.

7. Final Licensing and Employment

Once employed, your healthcare employer will:

• Apply for your residency visa

• Link your eligibility letter to their facility

• Make a request to have your complete DHA license issued.
  

You are now officially licensed to work as a nurse in Dubai!

Conclusion

Getting a Dubai nurse license involves multiple steps  from verification and exams to securing employment. But with careful preparation and persistence, it’s very achievable. Dubai offers nurses excellent salaries, advanced healthcare facilities, and the chance to grow professionally in a multicultural environment.

If you’re ready to begin, head to the Sheryan Portal, and take the first step toward your dream job in Dubai! Contact Montgo Health

Frequently Ask Questions

Q. How to become a registered nurse in Dubai from India?

A. To become a registered nurse in Dubai from India:

• Hold a BSc or GNM nursing qualification

• Have at least 2 years of clinical experience

• Pass the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) exam

• Complete Primary Source Verification (PSV)

• Obtain a DHA license and secure a job offer or sponsor in Dubai

Q. Can I give the DHA exam from India?

A. Yes, the DHA exam can be taken from India through authorized Prometric test centers. You must register through the DHA Sheryan portal and schedule the exam at a nearby center.

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

A. Indian nurses are eligible for the DHA exam if they have:

• A recognized nursing degree or diploma (BSc/GNM)

• A valid nursing license in India

• At least 2 years of post-registration clinical experience

Q. What is the salary of a DHA nurse in Dubai per month in Indian Rupees?

A. DHA-licensed nurses in Dubai typically earn between AED 4,000 to AED 8,000 per month, which is approximately ₹90,000 to ₹1,80,000 INR, depending on experience and employer.

Q. Are nurses highly paid in Dubai?

A. Nurses in Dubai earn competitive salaries, especially those with DHA licenses, ICU/ER experience, or advanced degrees. While not the highest paid in the healthcare sector, benefits like tax-free income, housing, and transportation allowances increase overall compensation.

Q. How to get a DHA license in Dubai for nurses?

A. To get a DHA license as a nurse:

1. Register on the DHA Sheryan portal

2. Submit documents for Primary Source Verification (PSV)

3. Schedule and pass the DHA Prometric exam

4. Obtain your eligibility letter, then secure a job offer/sponsor to receive the full license