If you’re a healthcare professional working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the licensing process is essential to ensuring that your qualifications meet the requirements of the regulatory bodies in each emirate. Among the most well-known licensing authorities are the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) and the HAAD (Health Authority Abu Dhabi), now known as the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH). While many professionals start their career by obtaining a DHA license for working in Dubai, you may later want to move to Abu Dhabi or work in multiple emirates. In such cases, converting your DHA license to a HAAD license becomes a crucial step.

Why Convert a DHA License to HAAD?

There are various reasons healthcare professionals may need or wish to convert their DHA license to a HAAD license:

  1. Job Relocation: If you’re moving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, your DHA license is not valid for working in Abu Dhabi. You’ll need a HAAD license for employment within Abu Dhabi’s healthcare facilities.
  2. Career Flexibility: Healthcare professionals may wish to expand their career opportunities across the UAE, and having a HAAD license allows you to work in Abu Dhabi.
  3. Regional Requirements: If your employer is based in Abu Dhabi or operates healthcare facilities across different emirates, having a HAAD license may be necessary for consistency in operations.

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Understanding DHA vs. HAAD/DOH

Before diving into the conversion process, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two licenses:

  • DHA License: The DHA license is required for healthcare professionals wishing to work in Dubai. It is issued by the Dubai Health Authority and is specifically for practitioners working in this emirate.
  • HAAD (DOH) License: The HAAD (now called DOH) license is issued by the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi. It’s designed for healthcare workers who want to practice in the capital city of Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas.

Each authority has its own set of exams, eligibility criteria, and guidelines. The conversion process involves ensuring that your qualifications and experience align with HAAD’s criteria.

Steps to Convert a DHA License to HAAD

Converting a DHA license to a HAAD license involves several steps. Below is a simplified guide on how to go about it.

1. Check Eligibility

The first step is to check if you meet the eligibility criteria for a HAAD license. Generally, the requirements are as follows:

  • Education: You must have completed your education in a healthcare-related field from an accredited institution. Make sure that your qualification is recognized by the HAAD.
  • Experience: Depending on your profession (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, etc.), HAAD may require a certain amount of post-qualification experience.
  • Professional License: You must already hold a valid DHA license before you can apply for the conversion. You also need to ensure your DHA license is up-to-date.

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2. Verify Documents

Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, gather the required documents for your application. These typically include:

  • A copy of your DHA license.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Your educational certificates and transcripts.
  • Proof of relevant work experience.
  • Any other supporting documents required by HAAD.

Make sure that these documents are properly attested and translated into English or Arabic (if required). This step can take some time, so it’s essential to prepare in advance.

3. Submit an Application to HAAD (DOH)

Now, you need to submit your application for the HAAD license. The process involves creating an account on the DOH’s official portal and filling out the application form.

  • Go to the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi website.
  • Register or log into your account.
  • Complete the application form, including all necessary information regarding your education, experience, and the details of your DHA license.
  • Upload all the required documents.

The Department of Health may ask for additional documents or clarifications during the application process.

4. Complete the HAAD Licensing Exam (if required)

In some cases, healthcare professionals may be required to pass a HAAD exam, even if they hold a DHA license. This depends on the type of healthcare profession and your qualification.

  • Eligibility Assessment: Based on your qualifications, DOH may conduct an eligibility assessment to determine if you need to take the exam.
  • Exam Preparation: If an exam is required, you’ll need to prepare for it. The DOH offers guidelines on the exams, and there are resources available to help with preparation.

The DOH exam is usually specific to your profession (e.g., medical, nursing, allied health) and may include multiple-choice questions or practical components depending on the role you’re applying for.

5. Wait for Approval and Issuance

After submitting the application and completing the necessary exam (if required), you will need to wait for approval from the Department of Health. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Once your application is approved, you will be issued a HAAD license, allowing you to work in Abu Dhabi and the surrounding areas.

6. Transfer Your Work Permit

Once you have the HAAD license, the final step is transferring your work permit. This may involve changing the status of your DHA visa to a DOH-based work visa in Abu Dhabi. Your employer can assist you with this step, ensuring you are legally able to work in the emirate.

Important Considerations

  • Dual Licensing: Healthcare professionals can hold both DHA and HAAD licenses if they work in different emirates. However, you can only practice in the emirate where your license is registered.
  • Renewal and Maintenance: Both DHA and HAAD licenses require periodic renewal. Be sure to stay updated on the renewal requirements for each authority to avoid any lapses in your license.
  • Transfer Between Employers: The HAAD license is usually tied to a specific employer. If you change employers in Abu Dhabi, you may need to update your HAAD license accordingly.

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Frequently Ask Questions

Q. How to convert DOH license to DHA in UAE?

A. To convert a DOH (HAAD) license to DHA, you must meet DHA’s eligibility criteria, submit required documents, and pass any necessary assessments or exams as per DHA regulations.

Q. Is a HAAD license accepted in Dubai?

A. No, a HAAD (now DOH) license is not accepted in Dubai. You need a DHA license to practice in Dubai healthcare facilities.

Q. How can I get DHA license in Abu Dhabi?

A. To obtain a DHA license in Abu Dhabi, you need to pass the DHA licensing exam, meet eligibility requirements, and submit your educational and professional documents to DHA.

Q. How much does a DHA license cost in Dubai?

A. The cost of obtaining a DHA license in Dubai varies depending on the profession, but it generally ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 5,000 or more, excluding additional fees for exams and attestation.

Q. Can I work in UAE without DHA license?

A. No, you cannot legally work in the healthcare sector in Dubai without a DHA license. It is a mandatory requirement to practice in the emirate.

Q. How can I get my DHA ID?

A. To get your DHA ID, you need to apply for a DHA license through the official DHA portal, pass any required exams, and submit your professional documents for approval.