Dubai Health Authority (DHA) License

Dubai’s healthcare industry continues to expand rapidly, offering professionals from across the globe an opportunity to work in one of the region’s most advanced medical ecosystems. A leading medical and wellness hub, Dubai Healthcare City free zone unites healthcare services, research, and education, thereby supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming a world-class healthcare destination.

Governed by the Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA), it emphasises on world-class standards, continuous development, and patient safety. For medical practitioners, obtaining a Dubai Health Authority license is a critical step when looking to join Dubai’s healthcare community. The authority ensures that only qualified and competent professionals are permitted to practice, maintaining excellence across hospitals, clinics, and specialised facilities.

Beyond licensing, the DHA also focuses on healthcare innovation, education, and regulatory excellence, fostering an environment where medical professionals can grow as well as contribute to Dubai’s vision. Hence, understanding the process of obtaining the Dubai Health Authority license is essential when looking to pursue a medical career in the Emirate.

What is a Dubai Health Authority License?

The DHA license in Dubai is a permit required by all healthcare professionals who wish to work in Dubai’s healthcare sector and become a part of the Dubai Medical Registry. Having the license certifies that the professional has the necessary qualifications and skills to provide medical services in the Emirate.

The license can be availed only if you fulfil the DHA license requirements, which vary depending on the category, title, and specialisation you pursue.

What is the DHA Exam Eligibility Criteria?

Before starting the application process, healthcare professionals must complete a DHA eligibility check via the Sheryan platform. The Health Regulation Department (HRD) of the is responsible for licensing qualified professionals who meet the standards to provide safe and effective healthcare services in Dubai. The Dubai Health Authority license applies to a broad range of professionals, including:

• Nurses and midwives
• Medical doctors and surgeons
• Dental practitioners and specialists
• Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
• Traditional and alternative medicine practitioners
• Allied health professionals (laboratory, radiology, physiotherapy, etc.)

Each category has specific educational and experience requirements, ensuring that only competent professionals are authorised to practice in Dubai’s healthcare sector.

What are the Dubai Health Authority License Requirements?

As mentioned earlier, the DHA medical license requirements vary depending on the position you are applying for. The standard requirements, regardless of the position, are listed below:

• The applicant must provide a valid certificate from the licensing authority of the applicant’s home country or the country of last practice.
• English fluency is mandatory; IELTS or TOEFL may be required for certain professions.
• Two years of successful clinical experience, either an internship or a residency programme.
• A valid degree from an accredited medical college or equivalent qualification.
• Submit all the necessary documents.
• Pass the DHA screening test.

Details About the Dubai Health Authority License Exam

The DHA Dubai Health Authority licensing exam is a standard assessment that must be passed to practice legally in the Emirate. The purpose of the examination is to ensure that the applicants are competent in providing safe and high-quality medical services to the residents of Dubai.

Depending on the applicant's profession, the DHA license exam can be broken down into computer-based testing (CBT) or an oral assessment. Three attempts are provided to clear the examination.

However, applying for the third attempt is allowed only if you have a minimum of two years of licensed clinical experience.

Which Documents are Required for the DHA License in Dubai?

When applying for the Dubai Health Authority license, the following documents must be submitted to the authorities:

• Applicant’s passport copy
• Recent passport-size photo
• Logbook for surgical specialities (of the last two years’ data)
• Good Standing Certificate(s) (GSC) (not older than six months)
• Verify the authenticity of the documents to fulfil the PQR requirements. Some documents include your qualification, experience, and registration certificates.

How to Apply for a DHA License in Dubai?

Before you apply for a Dubai Health Authority license, it is essential to follow a structured process to ensure accuracy and compliance. The steps below outline the complete DHA license application process, from document verification to final approval.

Step 1 - Verify the educational certificates, employment records, professional licenses, DHA exam requirements, and other necessary documents through a third-party service provider to ensure authenticity.

Step 2 - Create an account on the DHA website to access the Sheryan portal and fill out the DHA license application.

Step 3 - Conduct an evaluation using the self-assessment tool on the portal and check eligibility for the examination.

Step 4 - Submit all the necessary documents and schedule a date and location for the exam by paying the requisite fees.

Step 5 - You will receive your Dubai Health Authority license after passing the assessment and can start practising in Dubai. If you wish to establish a medical centre to practise, you can obtain a DHA facility license.

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