How Do I Apply for a DHA Professional License?

Dubai’s healthcare sector is renowned for its modern facilities, high standards, and multicultural workforce. As a result, it continues to attract health professionals from around the world. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or allied healthcare worker, practicing legally in Dubai requires obtaining a DHA professional license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Blogs

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the full process of applying for a DHA professional license, including eligibility criteria, documentation, exam details, and practical tips to ensure success.

What Is a DHA Professional License?

A DHA professional license is an official authorization issued by the Dubai Health Authority, allowing healthcare professionals to practice in hospitals, clinics, and medical centers within Dubai. This license confirms that the professional meets Dubai’s healthcare standards, both academically and ethically.

Whether you’re a local graduate or an international practitioner, a DHA license is mandatory for legal employment in any DHA-regulated facility.

Who Needs a DHA Professional License?

You need a DHA professional license if you wish to work in Dubai in any of the following healthcare roles:

• Doctors (General Practitioners, Specialists, Consultants)

• Nurses and Midwives

• Dentists

• Pharmacists

• Physiotherapists

• Laboratory Technicians

• Radiographers

• Dietitians

• Other allied health professionals

Even if you already hold a license from another emirate like Abu Dhabi (HAAD/DoH) or Sharjah (MOH), you must still apply separately for the DHA professional license to work in Dubai.

Eligibility Criteria for DHA Professional License

Before applying, ensure that you meet the following basic requirements:

1. Educational Qualification

• A degree or diploma relevant to your healthcare profession from a recognized and accredited institution.

2. Professional Experience

• Most categories require a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience after graduation (requirements vary by profession and specialty).

3. Valid License or Registration

• A current license or professional registration from your home country or country of last practice.

4. Good Standing Certificate

• A certificate issued by your current or previous health authority, proving that you’ve practiced without violations or misconduct.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a DHA Professional License

Applying for your DHA professional license involves multiple steps, most of which are handled online through the DHA’s Sheryan portal.

Step 1: Create a Sheryan Account

Visit Sheryan and create an account. This portal is used for all DHA licensing applications and renewals.

Step 2: Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow

You must verify your academic and professional credentials through DataFlow Group, DHA’s verification partner.

Required documents usually include:

• Passport copy

• Recent photograph

• Academic qualifications (degree/diploma)

• Experience letters

• Professional license/registration

• Good Standing Certificate

The verification process can take 2–6 weeks, depending on your institution and country.

Step 3: Pass the DHA Exam

After your documents are approved, you’ll be scheduled to take the DHA qualifying exam, administered by Prometric.

• The format depends on your profession. Most exams are multiple-choice, computer-based tests.

• The passing score is usually 60%–70%, depending on the specialty.

• The exam must be passed within a specific time frame to remain eligible.

Step 4: Receive the Eligibility Letter

If you pass the exam and all documents are verified, DHA will issue an Eligibility Letter. This letter states that you meet all requirements to be licensed but must secure employment in a DHA-approved facility.

Step 5: Get Hired by a DHA-Licensed Facility

To finalize your DHA professional license, you must be employed by a DHA-registered healthcare provider in Dubai. Your employer will initiate the final licensing step through the Sheryan portal.

Step 6: Final DHA License Issuance

Once employment is confirmed and fees are paid, the DHA will issue your official DHA professional license, allowing you to legally begin practicing in Dubai.

Timeline for DHA License Application

The entire process typically takes between 2 to 4 months, depending on:

• How quickly you submit your documents

• Verification speed by DataFlow

• Exam scheduling and results

• Your job placement

Starting early and keeping track of every step will help minimize delays.

Fees and Costs Involved

Here’s a rough estimate of costs associated with obtaining your DHA professional license:

• DataFlow verification: AED 1,000–1,500

• Prometric exam: AED 900–1,100

• Application & processing fees: AED 200–300

• Final license issuance: AED 1,000–2,000 (usually paid by employer)

Total estimated cost: AED 2,500–4,500 (depending on profession and situation)

How to Prepare for the DHA Exam

To maximize your chances of success in the DHA exam:

• Review the DHA-specific exam syllabus for your profession

• Use study guides and past exam questions tailored for DHA/Prometric

• Focus on clinical scenarios, ethics, and international best practices

• Join online forums or prep courses (many available for nurses, doctors, etc.)

• Time yourself with mock exams to improve speed and accuracy

Tips for a Smooth Licensing Process

• Scan all documents clearly: Poor quality scans often lead to rejections

• Use official email addresses for references: This speeds up verification

• Stay informed: Regularly check Sheryan and DHA’s website for updates

• Follow up: Don’t hesitate to contact DataFlow or Prometric if delays occur

• Have backups: Keep certified hard copies of all credentials

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a DHA professional license is a vital step for any healthcare worker aiming to build a career in Dubai. While the process may seem complex, being organized, proactive, and well-prepared will ensure your journey is smooth and successful.

From document verification to passing the qualifying exam and securing a job, every step reinforces the high standards that define Dubai’s healthcare industry. Once licensed, you’ll have the opportunity to work in one of the most advanced medical environments in the world. Contact Montgo Health

Frequently Ask Questions

1. What is a professional license in Dubai?

A professional license in Dubai, such as the DHA professional license, is an official permit issued by the Dubai Health Authority that allows qualified healthcare professionals to legally work in medical facilities within the emirate.

2. Who is eligible for a DHA license in Dubai?

Healthcare professionals with a recognized degree, valid home-country license, a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience (post-graduation), and a clean professional record are eligible to apply for a DHA professional license.

3. Who is eligible for DHA Prometric exam?

Applicants who have completed the Primary Source Verification (DataFlow) and meet DHA’s academic and experience requirements can take the DHA Prometric exam as part of the licensing process.

4. What is the passing score for DHA exam?

The DHA exam typically requires a minimum passing score of 60%, though it may vary depending on the profession and specialty.

5. How many attempts for DHA?

Candidates are allowed up to three attempts to pass the DHA exam. If unsuccessful, additional training or documentation may be required before reapplying.

6. How to prepare for a DHA license?

To prepare for your DHA professional license, study DHA exam-specific materials, use Prometric-style practice tests, review clinical guidelines, and join online preparation forums or courses tailored to your healthcare field.