You may be familiar with the DHA exam if you are an Indian healthcare professional hoping to work in Dubai. DHA stands for Dubai Health Authority, and passing this exam is an important step to get a medical job in Dubai. Don’t worry if the process feels confusing at first. This blog will explain the DHA exam registration step by step in easy words.
What Is the DHA Exam?
The DHA exam checks whether doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals meet Dubai’s medical standards. Once you pass the exam and complete the licensing process, you can legally work in DHA-approved hospitals and clinics in Dubai.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before registration, you must confirm that you are eligible. Eligibility depends on:
- Your qualifications (MBBS, BDS, Nursing, Pharmacy, etc.)
- Your work experience after graduation
- The medical council registration in India
Each profession has different requirements, so it’s important to check DHA eligibility rules first.
Step 2: Make a user account on the DHA Sheryan Portal.
The Sheryan site is used to register for the DHA exam online.
You need to:
- Create a personal account
- Enter your basic details like name, email, and passport information
To prevent delays, confirm that all the information matches your official documentation.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
After creating your account, you will upload scanned copies of your documents, such as:
- Passport
- Educational certificates
- Experience letters
- Medical council registration
- Recent photograph
All documents should be clear, valid, and in the correct format.
Step 4: Primary Source Verification (PSV)
This is one of the most important steps.
Your documents are sent for Primary Source Verification, which means your qualifications and experience are checked directly with the issuing institutions.
This process is handled through DataFlow and may take a few weeks. Be patient during this stage.
Step 5: Pay the DHA Exam Fee
Once your documents are accepted, you can pay the exam fee online through the portal.
The fee depends on your profession.
After payment, your application moves forward for exam scheduling.
Step 6: Book Your DHA Exam
Now you can choose:
- Exam date
- Exam center (many Indian cities have DHA exam centers)
The exam is usually computer-based and conducted at authorized testing centers in India.
Step 7: Appear for the Exam
On exam day:
- Reach the center early
- Carry your passport
- Follow all instructions carefully
The exam mostly includes multiple-choice questions related to your field.
Step 8: Get Your Result
Results are usually updated online.
If you pass, your DHA eligibility letter will be issued, which is valid for a certain time period.
After this, you can look for a job in Dubai and complete the final licensing steps.
Can I work in Dubai immediately after passing the DHA exam?
Passing the DHA exam is an important step, but you cannot start working in Dubai immediately after just passing it. After passing, you still need to complete a few more steps: your DHA license must be officially issued, and you need a job offer from a healthcare facility in Dubai. Only once your license is active and you have employment can you legally start working.
How long does the DHA exam registration process take?
The DHA exam registration process usually takes around 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how quickly you submit all the required documents and how fast the DHA verifies them. Sometimes it may take a bit longer if additional checks are needed or if there’s a high volume of applications.
Is the DHA exam difficult?
The DHA exam can be challenging, but it depends on your preparation and experience. It tests your medical knowledge, clinical skills, and understanding of Dubai’s healthcare regulations. If you have strong knowledge in your field, stay updated with exam guidelines, and practice sample questions, it becomes much easier.
What is the maximum number of times I can take the DHA exam?
You can attempt the DHA exam multiple times, but there are some rules to keep in mind. If you don’t pass on your first try, you can retake the exam, usually after a waiting period (often 30 days). Most candidates are allowed up to 3–4 attempts, but it’s best to check the latest DHA rules, as limits and policies can change.
Conclusion
DHA exam registration for candidates in India may look long, but if you follow each step properly, it becomes manageable. Keep your documents ready, double-check your details, and stay patient during verification.
Faqs
1. What is the DHA exam?
The DHA exam is a licensing assessment required by the Dubai Health Authority for healthcare professionals who want to work in Dubai.
2. Who needs to register for the DHA exam?
Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals must register and pass the exam to obtain a Dubai license.
3. What documents are required for registration?
Passport copy, educational certificates, experience letters, professional license, and DataFlow verification are typically required.
4. What is DataFlow verification?
It is a primary source verification process that confirms the authenticity of your education and work credentials.
5. How long does the registration process take?
It usually takes several weeks, depending on document verification, eligibility review, and exam scheduling availability.
6. Can I schedule the exam outside the UAE?
Yes, the DHA exam can often be taken at authorized testing centers in different countries, depending on availability.