What Are the DHA Eligibility Requirements in Dubai?

Dubai has grown into a major healthcare hub, attracting doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals from across the globe. If you’re considering a career in Dubai’s healthcare sector, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license is your golden ticket. Without this license, you’re not legally permitted to practice in the emirate. But what does it take to become DHA-eligible? In this blog, we’ll break down the DHA eligibility requirements, helping you better understand the process and prepare effectively.

Who Needs a DHA License?

Before diving into the requirements, it’s important to know who exactly needs a DHA license. This license is mandatory for:

• Doctors (General Practitioners and Specialists)

• Dentists

• Nurses and Midwives

• Allied Healthcare Professionals (e.g., physiotherapists, lab technicians, radiographers)

• Pharmacists
  

If you’re planning to work in a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, or any other medical institution in Dubai, getting licensed through the DHA is non-negotiable.

General Eligibility Criteria for All Healthcare Professionals

Whether you’re a doctor from India, a nurse from the Philippines, or a lab technician from Egypt, you must meet these basic eligibility conditions:

1. Educational Qualifications:
   • You must have a degree or diploma in your field from a recognized university or college.

   • The institution should be accredited and recognized by the relevant authority in your home country.
     

1. Work Experience:
   • For physicians and specialists: Minimum of 2 to 3 years of relevant post-graduate experience.

   • For nurses: At least 2 years of clinical experience.

   • For allied health professionals: Varies by specialty, but typically 2 years is standard.

   • Gaps in practice should not exceed 2 years at the time of application.

2. Professional License:
   • You must hold a valid professional license in the country where you last worked.

   • A “good standing certificate” (GSC) from the licensing authority is required, usually issued within the past 6 months.

3. Clean Legal and Professional Record:
   • No history of malpractice, negligence, or criminal activity.

   • No disciplinary actions on your previous license.
     

Specific DHA Requirements by Profession

While the general criteria are similar, each category of healthcare professionals must fulfill profession-specific guidelines, such as:

• Doctors: Must pass the DHA Prometric exam and might be required to undergo an oral assessment depending on specialty and experience.

• Nurses: Need to complete the DHA CBT (Computer-Based Test) and show proof of clinical training.

• Pharmacists and Lab Technicians: Must pass the relevant Prometric exam and prove licensing and experience.

• Dentists: Besides the DHA exam, additional documents like internship proof and clinical logs may be requested.
  

Documentation Checklist

To apply for the DHA license, you’ll typically need:

• Passport-size photo

• Valid passport copy

• Educational degree certificates

• Transcript of records

• Internship completion certificate (if applicable)

• Experience letters

• Professional license copy

• Good standing certificate

• Updated CV

• Primary Source Verification (via DataFlow)

• Exam results (Prometric, CBT, etc.)
  

DHA DataFlow and Exam

The DataFlow process is a background verification service that checks the authenticity of your documents, such as degrees and work experience. This is a mandatory step before you’re approved to take the DHA licensing exam.

After your documents are verified, you’ll be eligible to take the Prometric exam, which is the main assessment of your medical knowledge and clinical skills.

Conclusion

Getting a DHA license is a multi-step but achievable process if you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare well. Dubai offers high-paying jobs, tax-free income, and a dynamic work environment, making it a top destination for healthcare professionals.

If you’re dreaming of working in Dubai’s world-class healthcare system, start by gathering the right documents, verifying your credentials, and preparing for the DHA exam. Once you’re licensed, the opportunities are endless. Contact Montgo Health

Frequently Ask Questions

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

A. Healthcare professionals in India with recognized qualifications, valid work experience, and professional registration are eligible to apply for the DHA exam to work in Dubai.

Q. Who is eligible for a DHA license in Dubai?

A. Doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals with accredited qualifications and relevant clinical experience can apply for a DHA license to practice in Dubai.

Q. What are the requirements for DHA?

A. Requirements for DHA include:

• Accredited degree in a healthcare field

• Professional license from the home country

• Work experience (usually 2+ years)

• Passing the DHA exam and primary source verification (PSV)

Q. How can I get DHA in Dubai?

A. To get DHA licensed in Dubai:

1. Create an account on the DHA Sheryan portal

2. Submit documents for Primary Source Verification

3. Schedule and pass the DHA exam

4. Obtain the license and apply for job placement or sponsorship

Q. What is the passing score for the DHA exam?

A. The passing score for the DHA exam is 60%, but it may vary slightly depending on the healthcare specialty.

Q. What is the salary of a dentist in Dubai?

A. Dentists in Dubai typically earn between AED 15,000 to AED 35,000 per month, depending on experience, specialization, and type of clinic or hospital.