DOH exam Requirements for General Practitioner (GP)

If you aim to work as a General Practitioner (GP) in Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health (DOH) mandates that all applicants undergo a structured licensing and examination process. This ensures that healthcare professionals possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and standards to provide safe and effective care in the UAE. The following guide breaks down each stage of the process to help you meet the DOH’s requirements and succeed in obtaining your GP license.

Academic Requirements Recognized Medical Education

To be eligible for the DOH GP exam, candidates must hold a valid and internationally recognized medical degree:

• Medical Qualification: You should have earned a medical degree such as an MD (Doctor of Medicine), MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), or a comparable qualification from a reputable and accredited institution.

• Institutional Accreditation: Your medical school must be officially recognized by appropriate regulatory authorities, ensuring that the education you received aligns with global standards for medical training.

Educational Documentation

• Transcripts & Degree Certificates: You will need to submit authenticated copies of your academic transcripts and degree certificates. In some cases, these documents may need to be translated into either English or Arabic in accordance with DOH submission protocols.

Clinical Training

Mandatory Internship and Optional Residency

• Internship Completion: A 12-month internship following your graduation is typically required. This internship must include rotations through various clinical departments, offering direct exposure to patient management and essential healthcare procedures.

• Residency Experience: Although not strictly mandatory for general practice licensure, having completed a residency in a related discipline can boost your application. It demonstrates additional clinical depth and enhances your professional profile.

Professional Licensing

Holding a Valid License to Practice

• Previous Licensing: Candidates must hold a current, valid license to practice medicine in their home country or another country where they have been previously registered. This confirms that you have met local licensing requirements and maintained clinical competence.

Board Certification (Optional)

• Specialty Certification: While not required in all cases, having a board certification in General Practice or Family Medicine from a recognized board can strengthen your application and affirm your clinical expertise.

Language Proficiency

English Language Competency

• Required Skill Level: Strong English skills are essential for both the DOH exam and day-to-day medical practice in Abu Dhabi. If English is not your first language, the DOH may request evidence of language proficiency.

• Approved Assessments: Candidates may be required to take standardized language exams such as the IELTS or TOEFL. Make sure your test scores meet or exceed the minimum thresholds established by the DOH for effective communication in a clinical setting.

Clinical Experience

Professional Medical Practice

• Relevant Work History: A minimum of 2 to 3 years of post-internship clinical experience is typically necessary to qualify for the DOH GP license. This experience must be directly related to general medical practice.

• Employment Documentation: Submit official letters from past employers or healthcare institutions. These documents should clearly describe your roles, medical responsibilities, and areas of clinical focus.

Good Professional Standing

Clearance and Ethical Compliance

• Certificates of Good Standing: Secure documentation from the relevant licensing or regulatory bodies verifying that you are in good standing. These certificates should confirm that you have no outstanding disciplinary issues or professional misconduct.

• Background and Security Checks: Some applicants may be required to submit police clearance certificates or undergo criminal background screenings. This is to ensure that your history is consistent with ethical medical standards.

Exam Registration Process

Applying for the DOH GP Exam

• Online Portal Access: Begin by creating an account on the DOH’s official online platform. Once registered, complete the digital application and upload all required documentation.

• Document Verification: Ensure that all submitted files—academic credentials, licenses, certificates—are accurate, properly formatted, and fully authenticated to avoid delays in processing.

Scheduling Your Examination

Booking and Preparing for the Exam

• Exam Appointment: After your application is approved, log in to the DOH portal to choose an available exam date and testing center location that suits your schedule.

• Required Items for Exam Day: On the exam day, bring valid identification documents including your passport and the DOH exam authorization notice. Arrive ahead of time to handle any preliminary check-ins and procedures.

After the Exam

Next Steps Post-Assessment

• Receiving Your Results: Examination results are usually released within several weeks. You can monitor your application status and exam score via the DOH online portal or through your registered email.

• Licensing Finalization: If you pass the exam, you will proceed to the final stages of licensure. This phase may involve completing a medical fitness evaluation or submitting any outstanding documents as requested by the DOH.

Achieving Licensure as a DOH GP

Securing a license to work as a General Practitioner in Abu Dhabi requires thorough preparation, compliance with DOH criteria, and successful completion of the DOH exam. From educational qualifications to clinical experience, every step plays a crucial role in validating your competency to practice medicine in the UAE.

By methodically following the application steps and meeting all regulatory standards, you can move forward confidently in your professional journey and make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare system in Abu Dhabi—one of the region’s most innovative and rapidly growing medical landscapes.