If you’re a healthcare professional planning to work in Dubai, obtaining a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license is essential. This license ensures that all healthcare workers—doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and therapists—meet the professional standards set by the emirate’s health regulator.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about applying for a DHA license, including the process, eligibility, required documents, and fees.
What Is the DHA License?
The DHA license is an official permit issued by the Dubai Health Authority that allows healthcare professionals to legally work in the emirate of Dubai. It verifies your qualifications, experience, and fitness to practice in line with UAE healthcare standards.
Professionals cannot work in private or government healthcare facilities in Dubai without a valid DHA license.
Who Needs a DHA License?
Healthcare professionals across multiple fields are required to apply, including:
- Physicians and General Practitioners
- Specialists and Consultants
- Dentists
- Nurses and Midwives
- Allied Health Professionals (Physiotherapists, Dietitians, Radiographers, etc.)
- Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians
- Laboratory Technicians and Technologists
Eligibility Criteria for DHA License
To be eligible for a DHA license, candidates must meet the following requirements:
1. Educational Qualifications
You must hold a degree or diploma from an accredited institution relevant to your profession.
2. Work Experience
Experience requirements vary by profession:
- Doctors & Dentists: 2 years minimum post-internship experience
- Nurses & Allied Health Professionals: 2 years of relevant clinical experience
- Pharmacists: 2 years of experience post-qualification
3. Professional License/Registration
Applicants must have a valid license or registration from their home country or the country where they last practiced.
4. Good Standing Certificate
Issued by the relevant regulatory authority, confirming that the applicant has not been involved in any malpractice or disciplinary actions in the past five years.
Documents Required for DHA License Application
To begin the DHA licensing process, you will need to gather and upload the following documents:
- Passport Copy
- Recent Passport-size Photograph (white background)
- Updated CV/Resume
- Academic Certificates (diplomas, degrees, transcripts)
- Experience Certificates (on official letterhead)
- Professional License from current or previous regulatory authority
- Good Standing Certificate (issued within the last six months)
- BLS/ACLS certification (depending on the role)
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL for some positions)
Note: All non-English documents must be translated and attested as per UAE guidelines.
DHA License Application Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to how the process works:
Step 1: Create a Sheryan Account
Visit the DHA’s Sheryan portal and create an account to manage your application.
Step 2: Document Upload and Primary Source Verification (PSV)
All submitted credentials must be verified via DataFlow, the authorized verification partner. This includes your education, license, and experience documents.
Step 3: Schedule and Pass the Prometric Exam
Depending on your profession, you may be required to take the DHA Prometric exam. This is a computer-based test designed to assess your competency in your field.
Step 4: Application Review and Eligibility Letter
Once you’ve passed the exam and your documents are verified, DHA will issue an Eligibility Letter, which is valid for one year. This allows you to apply for jobs in licensed healthcare facilities in Dubai.
Step 5: Secure a Job Offer and Apply for Registration
After receiving a job offer from a DHA-approved facility, your employer can initiate the professional license activation through Sheryan.
Step 6: Final Approval and Issuance of DHA License
Once all fees are paid and your application is approved, your license will be issued electronically and will be valid for one year, renewable annually.
Fees Involved in DHA Licensing
The costs can vary depending on your profession and pathway, but here’s a general breakdown:
- DataFlow Primary Source Verification: AED 1,000 – 1,500
- DHA Exam Fee (Prometric): AED 258 (approx.)
- Application and Registration Fees: AED 200 – 500
- License Activation Fee: AED 1,000 – 2,000 (varies by profession)
Additional fees may apply if re-examinations, appeals, or extra documentation is needed.
Tips for a Smooth DHA Licensing Process
- Start Early: The entire process can take 2–3 months or longer depending on document verification.
- Ensure Accuracy: Double-check that names, dates, and qualifications match across all documents.
- Prepare for the Exam: Study for the Prometric exam using updated guides and mock tests.
- Keep Digital Copies Handy: All documents must be uploaded online, so keep high-quality scanned versions ready.
- Track Your Application: Monitor your Sheryan dashboard regularly for updates or additional requests.
Renewing a DHA License
The DHA license must be renewed annually. You’ll need to:
- Submit a renewal request via Sheryan
- Provide updated CME (Continuing Medical Education) certificates
- Pay the renewal fee
- Ensure your Good Standing Certificate and BLS/ACLS are current
Late renewals may incur penalties or suspension of license.
Alternatives to DHA License in the UAE
If you wish to work outside Dubai, you may need to apply for:
- MOHAP License (Ministry of Health – for northern emirates)
- HAAD/DOH License (Abu Dhabi)
- DHCC License (Dubai Healthcare City)
Each has its own criteria and application process, but unified licensing systems are gradually being introduced to streamline movement across emirates.
Complete Your DHA Licensing Now
Securing a DHA license is a critical step for any healthcare professional aspiring to work in Dubai’s world-class medical sector. While the process can seem complex, following the correct steps and preparing thoroughly can make it a smooth journey.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced practitioner, staying updated with the latest DHA requirements ensures you’re always compliant, confident, and ready to contribute to Dubai’s healthcare excellence.
