What Is the HAAD Exam for Pharmacist and How Do You Apply?

The Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD), now known as the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH), oversees the licensing of healthcare professionals who wish to work in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). For pharmacists, passing the HAAD exam is a critical step toward obtaining a license to practice. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced pharmacist seeking international opportunities, understanding the HAAD process is essential.

In this blog, we’ll break down what the HAAD exam is, its eligibility criteria, and the application process in simple terms.

What Is the HAAD Exam?

The HAAD exam is a licensing examination conducted by the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi. It ensures that healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, meet the minimum standards of knowledge and competency before they can work in the region.

Pharmacists who pass this exam receive a license to legally practice in Abu Dhabi, which is mandatory for employment in public and private healthcare facilities across the Emirate.

Why Is It Important?

1. Mandatory for Practice: Without a HAAD license, pharmacists are not eligible to work legally in Abu Dhabi.

2. Professional Recognition: It ensures your qualifications are officially recognized in the UAE.

3. Better Job Opportunities: Many employers in the UAE prefer or require HAAD-licensed candidates.

4. Mobility: Once you have a HAAD license, it becomes easier to transfer or upgrade to other Emirates such as Dubai (DHA) or across the UAE via the Unified Healthcare License System.
   

Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible for the HAAD exam as a pharmacist, you must meet the following basic criteria:

• A degree in pharmacy from an authorized university.
• A valid professional license or registration in your home country.

• At least two years of work experience post-graduation (for most applicants).

• A good standing certificate from your previous employer or licensing authority.

• Proof of English proficiency, such as an IELTS or TOEFL score (required in some cases).
  

Note: Always refer to the latest DOH guidelines, as eligibility criteria may change depending on your nationality, qualifications, or the type of healthcare facility you’re applying to.

How to Apply for the HAAD Exam – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Dataflow Verification

Before applying for the exam, you must undergo Primary Source Verification (PSV) through the Dataflow Group. This step ensures your educational and professional credentials are genuine.

• Visit the Dataflow portal.

• Submit documents: degree certificate, transcripts, license, experience letters, passport copy, etc.

• Pay the verification fee.

• Wait for your Dataflow report (typically takes 2–4 weeks).
  

Step 2: Create a DOH/HAAD Account

• Register on the Department of Health Abu Dhabi portal.

• Upload your verified documents from Dataflow.

• Complete your professional profile.
  

Step 3: Exam Scheduling via Pearson VUE

The HAAD exam is administered by Pearson VUE, a global testing service. Once you receive eligibility approval:

• Visit www.pearsonvue.com/HAAD.

• Choose your exam category: Pharmacist.

• Decide on a testing location and set up the exam.

• Pay the exam fee (usually around USD 100–150, subject to change).
  

Step 4: Take the Exam

• The exam typically consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.

• Duration: 2.5 hours.

• Topics cover: pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, clinical pharmacy, dispensing, and regulations.

• The passing score is usually 60% or higher.
  

Step 5: Get Your Results

• Results are usually released within 3–5 working days.

• If you pass, you will receive an eligibility letter and proceed with job applications or licensure issuance.
  

Conclusion

For pharmacists in Abu Dhabi, passing the HAAD exam is essential to a prosperous pharmacy career. While the application process might seem lengthy, it’s a one-time investment in your professional future. By understanding each step from credential verification to passing the exam you can approach this journey with confidence.

Remember, preparation is key. Make sure you study from relevant pharmacy review materials, keep your documents ready, and stay updated with the latest HAAD/DOH guidelines. Contact Montgo Health

A career in the UAE awaits with the right steps, you can turn your pharmacy qualification into an international success story.

Frequently Ask Questions

1. Who is eligible for the HAAD exam in the UAE?

Pharmacists with a recognized degree (B.Pharm or higher), valid professional license/registration from their home country, and relevant work experience (usually 2+ years) are eligible to apply for the HAAD exam.

2. How to apply for the DHA exam for pharmacists from India?

To apply from India:

• Create an account on the DHA Sheryan portal

• Submit educational and professional documents for DataFlow verification

• Schedule and take the Prometric DHA exam at an authorized center in India

• Complete the licensing process after passing

3. What is the full form of HAAD exam in India?

HAAD stands for Health Authority – Abu Dhabi. The HAAD exam is the professional licensing test required to work in Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector, even when taken from India.

4. Can the DHA exam be given in India?

Yes, the DHA exam can be taken at approved Prometric centers in India. You can complete the entire application and exam process from India before moving to Dubai for employment.

5. What is the age limit for DHA?

There is no official maximum age limit for the DHA exam, but some employers in the UAE may have their own age-related hiring policies.

6. What is the fee for the DHA exam in India?

DHA exam fees vary by profession and test type. For pharmacists, the cost typically includes application, DataFlow, and Prometric exam fees. For the most accurate rates, check the DHA and Prometric websites.