For anyone planning to work as a healthcare professional in Abu Dhabi, passing the HAAD exam—now officially managed under the Department of Health (DoH – Abu Dhabi)—is a crucial step. The exam ensures that all doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals meet the clinical and ethical standards required to provide safe and effective care in the UAE’s capital.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the HAAD exam: who needs it, eligibility requirements, necessary documents, exam format, preparation tips, and what comes next after you pass. We’ll also explain how Montgo Health can help simplify the process, from registration to licensing.
What Is the HAAD Exam and Who Needs to Take It?
The HAAD exam is a professional assessment designed to evaluate the knowledge, competence, and skills of healthcare professionals seeking to work in Abu Dhabi. It’s a mandatory step before obtaining a Department of Health (DoH) license to practice.
Previously known as the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD) exam, it remains one of the key gateways for healthcare professionals looking to practice in the Emirate.
Who Needs to Take It?
The HAAD exam applies to a broad range of medical professionals, including:
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Physicians and surgeons
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Dentists
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Nurses and midwives
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Pharmacists
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Allied health professionals (such as physiotherapists, laboratory technicians, radiographers, and dietitians)
If you’re planning to work in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or the Western Region (Al Dhafra), you must pass the HAAD exam and obtain a DoH license before beginning employment.
Montgo Health works closely with applicants to determine which exam category applies to their profession and guides them through registration, scheduling, and preparation.
Eligibility Criteria for HAAD Licensing in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Health (DoH) has set clear eligibility standards for professionals applying to take the HAAD exam. These criteria ensure that only qualified individuals are licensed to provide care in Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system.
1. Educational Qualification
Applicants must hold an accredited degree or diploma relevant to their field of practice. The institution should be recognized by the UAE authorities or by an international accreditation body.
For example:
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Doctors must have a medical degree (MBBS or equivalent).
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Nurses should hold at least a Bachelor’s or Diploma in Nursing.
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Pharmacists need a degree in Pharmacy.
2. Professional Experience
Experience requirements vary depending on your role and specialization:
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Physicians: Minimum of two years of clinical experience after internship.
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Nurses and Allied Health Professionals: At least two years of relevant professional experience.
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Consultants or Specialists: May require more, depending on specialty.
Montgo Health helps applicants review their professional experience against DoH requirements before applying, ensuring eligibility is clear from the start.
3. Professional License
You must hold a valid license or registration from the country where you last practiced. This confirms your legal eligibility to work as a healthcare professional in your home or previous country.
4. Good Standing Certificate
Applicants must provide a certificate of good standing from their previous licensing body, confirming that they have not been subject to disciplinary action or malpractice cases.
5. Medical Fitness and Legal Status
Candidates must be medically fit and hold a valid passport. UAE residents also need an active visa or Emirates ID during the process.
Documents Required for HAAD Exam Application
Submitting the right documentation is a key part of the application process. Missing or incomplete documents can delay approval or even lead to rejection.
Here’s what you’ll typically need for the HAAD exam application:
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Passport Copy – Valid for at least six months.
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Passport-size Photo – Recent and professional.
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Educational Certificates – All academic and professional degrees, attested if required.
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Transcript of Records – Showing detailed coursework or clinical hours (especially for nurses and allied health).
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Professional License/Registration – From your home country or last place of practice.
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Good Standing Certificate – Issued within the last six months.
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Experience Certificates – Documenting relevant work experience from previous employers.
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Primary Source Verification (PSV) Report – All credentials must be verified through the official verification system recognized by the DoH.
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Updated CV/Resume – Including educational background and work experience.
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Proof of Payment – For exam and verification fees.
Montgo Health assists applicants in reviewing and organizing their documents to ensure they meet the DoH standards before submission. Their team helps avoid common errors such as missing attestations, incorrect translations, or mismatched details.
Exam Structure, Format, and Scoring System
The HAAD exam is designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical competency. While details can vary based on profession and specialization, the general format follows international standards for professional medical assessments.
1. Exam Structure
The HAAD exam typically includes:
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Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): 100 to 150 questions depending on the profession.
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Computer-Based Testing (CBT): Conducted through authorized Prometric centers in the UAE and internationally.
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Specialized Scenarios: Some roles (like physicians and dentists) may include case-based questions testing clinical reasoning and decision-making.
2. Exam Duration
Most exams last 2 to 3 hours, depending on the category.
3. Scoring and Results
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The passing score is usually 60–70%, but it varies by specialty.
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Results are generally released within five to ten business days.
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Candidates who fail may retake the exam after a specific waiting period.
4. Exam Languages
The HAAD exam is primarily conducted in English, except for specific roles that may require Arabic proficiency (for example, public health positions).
Montgo Health helps candidates identify the correct exam blueprint, understand the scoring structure, and prepare accordingly. Their guidance ensures that applicants know exactly what to expect on test day.
Preparation Tips and Recommended Study Resources
Passing the HAAD exam requires focused preparation and familiarity with the test structure. Here are some proven strategies to help candidates succeed:
1. Understand the Exam Blueprint
Each specialty has a defined content outline (or “blueprint”) detailing the subjects covered and their weightage. Reviewing this blueprint helps you focus your study on high-yield areas.
2. Use Official Study Guides
The DoH often provides sample questions or reference materials. Using these resources helps you get accustomed to the question format and difficulty level.
3. Practice with Mock Exams
Take practice tests and timed mock exams. This improves time management and builds confidence before the actual exam.
4. Review Core Clinical Concepts
Make sure you revise key topics in your field—especially those related to patient safety, infection control, and evidence-based practice.
5. Join Study Groups or Review Courses
Collaborating with peers or enrolling in review courses can help clarify difficult topics and keep you accountable during preparation.
6. Rest Before the Exam
Don’t underestimate the value of proper rest. A clear mind improves focus and recall during testing.
Montgo Health offers tailored preparation support, including guidance on credible study materials, mock test access, and review programs designed to help candidates perform confidently in their HAAD exams.
Post-Exam Steps and Obtaining the HAAD License
Once you’ve passed the HAAD exam, there are a few final steps to complete before you can legally practice in Abu Dhabi.
1. Receive the Exam Result
You’ll be notified of your results through your online profile. If you pass, you’ll move on to the next phase—licensing and job placement.
2. Obtain an Eligibility Letter
The Department of Health issues an eligibility letter confirming that you’ve met the professional requirements. This letter allows you to apply for jobs in Abu Dhabi healthcare facilities.
3. Secure Employment
You’ll need a job offer from a DoH-licensed healthcare facility. Once hired, your employer initiates the license activation process.
4. License Activation
Your license becomes active once linked to your employment. You can then legally practice your profession in Abu Dhabi under your facility’s supervision.
5. Maintain and Renew Your License
HAAD (DoH) licenses must be renewed annually. Renewal requires:
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Proof of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours.
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Updated malpractice insurance.
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Valid Good Standing Certificate.
Montgo Health assists professionals even after they’ve passed their exams. They provide end-to-end support in activation, job matching, and license renewal to ensure smooth compliance and career continuity in the UAE healthcare sector.
Earning your HAAD license is a major milestone in building a healthcare career in Abu Dhabi. It proves your qualifications, competence, and readiness to deliver quality patient care in one of the region’s most advanced healthcare systems.
While the process can seem complex, success comes down to proper preparation, complete documentation, and following the right steps. Working with a trusted consultant like Montgo Health can make the process significantly easier. From verifying credentials and preparing for the exam to activating and renewing your license, Montgo Health ensures every step is managed professionally and efficiently.
If you’re a healthcare professional aiming to practice in Abu Dhabi, the HAAD exam is your gateway—and Montgo Health is your guide to getting there confidently.
Frequently Ask Questions
1. What is the HAAD exam?
The HAAD exam, now managed by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), assesses the knowledge and competence of healthcare professionals seeking a license to practice in Abu Dhabi.
2. Who needs to take the HAAD exam?
All healthcare professionals—including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and allied health specialists—must pass the HAAD exam before working in Abu Dhabi healthcare facilities.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for the HAAD exam?
Applicants must hold a recognized medical or healthcare qualification, valid professional license, relevant work experience, and a Good Standing Certificate from their licensing body.
4. What documents are needed for the HAAD exam application?
You’ll need your passport copy, educational and experience certificates, valid professional license, Good Standing Certificate, and Primary Source Verification (PSV) report.
5. How is the HAAD exam structured?
The exam is computer-based, usually consisting of 100–150 multiple-choice questions. It assesses clinical knowledge, professional ethics, and decision-making skills in your specialty.
6. How can Montgo Health help with the HAAD exam process?
Montgo Health assists with eligibility checks, document preparation, PSV verification, exam scheduling, and licensing guidance to help candidates pass smoothly and meet DoH standards.
