Hospital License

Opening a hospital or working as a licensed healthcare professional in the UAE requires compliance with strict regulations set by national and emirate-level authorities. Whether you’re planning to establish a private healthcare facility or obtain a license to practice as a doctor or hospital administrator, understanding the licensing process is essential. Blogs

This comprehensive guide explains how to obtain a hospital license in the UAE, including procedures for clinics, hospitals, general practitioners, and administrative staff.

Hospital Licensing Authority

In the UAE, the hospital licensing process is managed by different authorities depending on the emirate:

• Abu Dhabi: Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH)

• Dubai: Dubai Health Authority (DHA)

• Northern Emirates: Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP)

Each authority has its own portal and requirements, but the common goal is to ensure patient safety, professional competence, and adherence to infrastructure standards.

For example, if you plan to open a hospital in Abu Dhabi, your application will go through the DoH facility licensing system. In Dubai, the Sheryan system is used to issue licenses and track healthcare professionals and facilities.

Hospital Administrator License

If you’re aiming to manage a hospital or healthcare center in the UAE, you must hold a hospital administrator license. This position is crucial because you’re responsible for operational efficiency, legal compliance, and overall patient care standards.

Requirements typically include:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in hospital administration, healthcare management, or a related field

• At least 3–5 years of healthcare management experience

• Good standing certificate and clean legal background

• Passing a prometric exam or credential verification in some cases

You must also be registered in the respective emirate’s health system (e.g., DHA or DoH). Some roles may require fluency in Arabic, although English is the primary language for operations in most international hospitals.

How to Get Hospital License

Starting a hospital in the UAE is a structured, multi-phase process. Here’s a breakdown of how to get a hospital license:

1. Initial Planning & Feasibility

You need a detailed business plan that includes:

• Services to be offered

• Staffing requirements

• Location feasibility

• Financial plan

2. Application to Licensing Authority

Apply to the respective health authority (DoH, DHA, or MOHAP) with:

• Business plan

• Architectural layout

• Fire safety compliance

• Ownership documents

3. Infrastructure & Technical Review

Your facility is reviewed for:

• Infection control protocols

• Emergency systems

• Accessibility and patient flow

• Minimum bed and space requirements (for hospitals)

4. Final Licensing & Inspection

Once the documentation is approved and infrastructure is built, a final inspection is carried out by the authority. If all standards are met, a facility license is issued.

This license is mandatory before you can begin offering medical services or hiring healthcare staff.

DoH License for Doctors

For doctors practicing in Abu Dhabi, a DoH license (formerly HAAD) is mandatory. Here’s a step-by-step guide for obtaining one:

1. Create an account on the DoH TAMM or Shafafiya platform

2. Submit DataFlow verification of educational and professional credentials

3. Pass the DoH Exam (or get an exemption based on qualifications and country of origin)

4. Submit malpractice insurance

5. Receive the license, allowing you to legally work in hospitals, clinics, or telemedicine

The process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks depending on document readiness and exam availability.

Doctors without this license are not allowed to work in the capital’s healthcare system.

License for Private Hospital or Clinic

Setting up a private hospital or clinic in the UAE has become a popular option for investors and medical entrepreneurs. A license for private hospital or clinic includes:

Key Requirements:

• Ownership documents or investment agreements

• Detailed architectural plans compliant with UAE health facility standards

• Appointment of a licensed Medical Director

• Fire, safety, and engineering certifications

• Approval from Municipality and Civil Defense

For a clinic, the requirements are slightly less strict than for a hospital. However, both must meet staffing ratios, hygiene standards, and equipment compliance.

Once licensed, the facility must go through regular audits by health authorities to maintain its operating license.

GP License Abu Dhabi

A GP (General Practitioner) license in Abu Dhabi is essential for doctors who provide primary medical care across various specialties. To obtain this license through the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the candidate must:

• Hold a recognized MBBS degree

• Have at least 2 years of post-internship clinical experience

• Pass the DoH GP exam or qualify for exemption

• Undergo DataFlow verification for credentials

• Submit proof of malpractice insurance

Once granted, the GP license allows doctors to work in both private and public healthcare facilities, including hospitals, outpatient centers, and general clinics.

Maintaining this license requires CME (Continuing Medical Education) credits annually.

Montgo Health – Your Trusted Healthcare Licensing Partner

Navigating the hospital or healthcare licensing process in the UAE can be overwhelming. That’s where Montgo Health comes in. As a trusted healthcare consultancy and recruitment firm in the UAE, Montgo Health supports professionals and investors with:

• Licensing for hospitals, clinics, and individual practitioners

• Credential verification and document preparation

• Exam registration and training support

• Medical professional recruitment and placement

• Ongoing compliance and audit consulting

Whether you’re opening a facility or applying for a hospital administrator license, Montgo Health ensures a seamless journey from planning to practice.

Visit Montgo Health’s website today to learn more or schedule a free consultation with their licensing experts.

The UAE offers a supportive environment for healthcare professionals and investors, but licensing is key to staying compliant and competitive. Whether you’re aiming to start a private hospital, get a GP license in Abu Dhabi, or work as a hospital administrator, understanding and following the right process ensures long-term success. Our Clients

If you’re ready to take the next step in your healthcare journey, let Montgo Health be your trusted guide in licensing, recruitment, and beyond.

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Frequently Ask Questions

Q. How to get a UAE medical license?

A. To get a UAE medical license, you must apply through the relevant authority (DoH, DHA, or MOHAP), complete DataFlow verification, pass a licensing exam, and submit required credentials.

Q. How much does it cost to open a hospital in the UAE?

A. Opening a hospital in the UAE can cost between AED 20 million to AED 100 million, depending on the size, location, and services offered. This includes infrastructure, licensing, and staffing.

Q. How much does it cost to get a medical license in the UAE?

A. The total cost for a medical license (including DataFlow, exam, application, and insurance) ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000, depending on the emirate and profession.

Q. Can I open a hospital in Dubai?

A. Yes, both local and foreign investors can open a hospital in Dubai, subject to approval from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and compliance with infrastructure, staffing, and licensing regulations.

Q. What is the minimum money required to open a hospital?

A. A small specialized clinic may require AED 1–3 million, while a full-scale hospital would need at least AED 20 million to meet regulatory and operational standards.

Q. Who pays for hospitals in Dubai?

A. Hospitals in Dubai are funded through a mix of private investment, government funding, and insurance-based payments from patients. The government funds public hospitals, while private hospitals rely on investors and insurance reimbursements.