What Are the Requirements to Work as a Doctor in Dubai?

One of the most developed cities in the Middle East, Dubai is well-known for its cutting-edge medical facilities and expanding medical tourism industry. As a result, many healthcare professionals, especially doctors from across the world, dream of practicing medicine in this vibrant city. However, work as a doctor in dubai involves a specific process and several requirements to ensure high standards of care.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the essential qualifications, licensing process, and other key requirements for becoming a doctor in Dubai.

1. Educational Qualification

To begin with, you must possess a recognized medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) from an accredited university. This is the framework for whether you are eligible. Additionally:

• If you are a specialist or consultant, you need a postgraduate qualification such as MD, MS, DNB, or any board certification from recognized medical boards.
  
• Your qualifications must be attested by the concerned authorities, including your country’s Ministry of Education and the UAE Embassy or consulate.
  

2. Work Experience

Work experience is a critical requirement:

• General practitioners must typically have at least 2 years of clinical experience after internship.
• After specialization, specialists require three years of experience.
• Consultants must show a minimum completing their postgraduate degree.
  

This experience should be continuous and relevant, with no large unexplained career gaps.

3. Licensing Bodies in Dubai

In Dubai, doctors are licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Depending on where you want to work, you may also consider:

• DHCC (Dubai Healthcare City) – For physicians who are working in healthcare-free zones there.
  
• MOH (Ministry of Health) – applicable for other Emirates in the UAE.
  
• DOH/HAAD (Department of Health – Abu Dhabi) – for practicing in Abu Dhabi.
  

However, if your goal is to work within Dubai’s private or government hospitals, DHA licensing is essential.

4. DHA Licensing Process

The DHA requires a Professional License to allow for you to practice officially as medical professional in Dubai.

Step 1: Register for a Sheryan Portal account

• Visit the Sheryan portal (DHA’s online licensing system).
  
• Create an account and submit the initial application.
  

Step 2: Document Verification

• Upload all required documents, including:
  • Passport and recent photo
  • Educational certificates
  • Experience letters
  • A current medical license from your nation of origin
  • Good Standing Certificate (GSC) from your current/previous licensing authority
    

Step 3: DataFlow Verification

• DataFlow performs Primary Source Verification (PSV) on your documents.
• This is a mandatory background check to verify authenticity.
  

Step 4: Assessment/Exam

• You might be required to take a Prometric exam or go through an in-person interview, depending on your qualifications.
• Your clinical competence and medical knowledge are evaluated during the exam.

Step 5: Eligibility Letter

• An Eligibility Letter is sent to you when you pass the test and verification.
  
• This allows you to search for a job and be officially licensed after securing employment.
  

5. Securing a Job and Getting Licensed

Finding employment in a licensed healthcare facility in Dubai is the next step after receiving the Eligibility Letter.  Once you secure employment:

• The healthcare facility applies on your behalf for the active DHA license.
  
• You can lawfully practice medicine in Dubai after being approved.

6. Language and Other Requirements

• Fluency in English is necessary because the majority of documentation and communication is in English, even though Arabic is not required.
  
• Basic knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage.
  
• You must be medically fit, and a health screening is required during the visa process.
  

Conclusion

Becoming a doctor in Dubai is a rewarding opportunity but requires careful preparation and patience. With excellent remuneration, advanced medical facilities, and a diverse working environment, Dubai offers one of the most attractive career destinations for doctors worldwide.

By meeting the qualifications, passing the DHA requirements, and staying updated with healthcare regulations, your dream of practicing medicine in Dubai can definitely become a reality. Contact Montgo Health

Frequently Ask Questions

Q. What is the salary of an MBBS doctor in Dubai?

A. MBBS doctors in Dubai typically earn AED 12,000–25,000 per month, with government hospitals offering higher salaries (up to AED 30,000) than private clinics. Specialists earn significantly more.

Q. Can an MBBS doctor practice in Dubai?

A. Yes, but you must:

• Obtain a DHA/HAAD/MOH license

• Pass the required licensing exam

• Have at least 2 years of post-internship experience

• Get your degree attested by the UAE embassy

Q. What is the DHA exam for doctors in Dubai?

A. The DHA licensing exam assesses medical knowledge through:

• Computer-based multiple-choice questions

• Clinical scenario testing

• Possible oral/practical components (for some specialties)
  Passing score is typically 60-70% depending on specialty.

Q. How to apply for a doctor job in Dubai?

1. Get your documents ready (degree, experience certificates)

2. Apply for jobs through:

   • Hospital websites

   • Recruitment agencies

   • Dubai Health Authority portal

3. Clear the licensing process

4. Obtain your employment visa

Q. How do I move to Dubai as a doctor?

A. Key steps:
✔ Get a job offer first
✔ Pass the licensing requirements
✔ Complete medical fitness test
✔ Obtain residency visa (sponsored by employer)
✔ Get your Emirates ID

6. Can a doctor work in Dubai without a DHA license?

No – practicing medicine without DHA/HAAD/MOH license is illegal. Even visiting doctors need temporary permits. Fines can reach AED 100,000 for violations.