Your Complete Guide to DHA Licensing in Dubai 2025

Guide to DHA Licensing in Dubai

Dubai’s booming healthcare sector offers immense opportunities for professionals from around the world. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, dentist, or allied health professional, practicing in Dubai requires a professional license issued by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). The DHA license not only ensures quality healthcare delivery but also upholds patient safety and international standards.

This blog explores the complete process of obtaining a DHA licensing in Dubai — including eligibility, application steps, exams, timelines, and helpful tips to make your licensing journey smooth and successful.

What Is a DHA License?

The DHA licensing in Dubai is a mandatory work permit that authorizes healthcare professionals to legally practice in private healthcare facilities in Dubai. The Dubai Health Authority regulates this licensing system to ensure only qualified and competent individuals serve in the emirate’s medical and healthcare institutions.

Whether you’re planning to work in a hospital, clinic, medical center, or as a solo practitioner — a DHA licensing in Dubai is non-negotiable.

Who Needs a DHA licensing in Dubai?

You need a DHA licensing in Dubai if you plan to work in Dubai as any of the following:

General Practitioner
Specialist Doctor or Consultant
Dentist or Dental Specialist
Nurse or Midwife
Pharmacist
Medical Lab Technician
Physiotherapist
Radiographer
Dietitian/Nutritionist
Alternative Medicine Practitioner (like Ayurveda or Homeopathy)

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a DHA licensing in Dubai, you must:

Hold a valid degree or diploma in your medical or allied health field.
Have relevant work experience (usually 2+ years post-qualification).
Be free of malpractice or legal issues related to your profession.
Possess a valid passport and professional references.
Pass Primary Source Verification (PSV) through DataFlow.
Clear the Prometric exam and/or interview depending on your category.

Note: Different professional categories have slightly varied eligibility requirements. For example, specialists and consultants need more years of experience and additional qualifications.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for DHA License

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the DHA licensing in Dubai process:

Step 1: Create a Sheryan Account

Visit the DHA Sheryan portal and create your professional account. This will be your dashboard for application tracking, fee payment, exam booking, and document submission.

Step 2: Submit Primary Source Verification (DataFlow)

Upload your academic qualifications, experience letters, professional license, and passport. DHA verifies these documents through DataFlow to ensure they are authentic and traceable to original institutions.

Step 3: Schedule Prometric Exam

Once your documents are cleared, book your DHA Prometric exam. This test assesses your theoretical and practical knowledge based on international standards.

The exam is usually computer-based, taken at authorized test centers or remotely.
Passing scores vary by profession (usually 60–70%).

Step 4: Evaluation and Eligibility Letter

Upon clearing the exam, DHA evaluates your profile. If successful, you’ll receive an Eligibility Letter, which is valid for 1 year and allows you to apply for jobs.

Step 5: Secure an Offer and Facility Registration

Once hired by a DHA-approved facility, the employer will link your license application to their medical center or hospital for final approval.

Step 6: Get Your DHA License

After final review and employer sponsorship, the DHA will issue your professional license, allowing you to begin practicing legally in Dubai.

Required Documents

While requirements can vary, here’s a list of commonly required documents:

Passport Copy (with minimum 6 months validity)
Recent Passport-sized Photo
Educational Certificates (attested)
Experience Certificates
Good Standing Certificate from current medical council
Valid Professional License from home country
Updated CV/Resume
Proof of malpractice insurance (if required)
DataFlow report and Prometric result

Tip: Ensure all documents are in English or Arabic. Translations must be certified.

DHA License Fees (Estimated)

Here’s a rough breakdown of costs:

DataFlow Verification: AED 1,000 – AED 1,500
Prometric Exam: AED 900 – AED 1,200
Application and Processing: AED 2,000 – AED 3,000
License Activation: AED 1,000 – AED 2,000

Note: Fees vary by profession and urgency. Always check current rates on the DHA website.

DHA licensing in Dubai Validity and Renewal

A DHA license is typically valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. To renew:

You must have continuing professional development (CPD) hours.
Submit renewal application via Sheryan before expiry.
Pay renewal fees and submit updated documents if required.

Practicing with an expired license can result in hefty fines or license suspension.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
Using unverified educational institutions
Failing to book Prometric exam on time
Ignoring the renewal deadline
Not aligning your job offer with a DHA-approved facility

Always double-check document requirements and keep track of timelines.

Benefits of DHA Licensing

Legal authority to practice in Dubai’s private healthcare sector
Increased job opportunities and better salary prospects
Eligibility to shift to HAAD or MOH licenses (in Abu Dhabi or other emirates)
Access to international-standard medical facilities
Enhanced career mobility across the UAE

Getting your DHA license in Dubai may seem like a multi-step process, but with the right preparation and support, it’s entirely achievable. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the UAE, the license not only legitimizes your career — it also opens doors to a dynamic and growing healthcare industry.

If you’re planning to take the next step in your medical career, start the DHA licensing process today — and get ready to practice where innovation meets opportunity.