If you’re a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or any other healthcare professional working in the United Arab Emirates, you must keep your medical license active to continue practicing. The good news? Renewing your license is not difficult, you just need to follow the right steps.
The process is done through the health authority you are licensed under:
- MOHAP (Ministry of Health & Prevention)
- DHA (Dubai Health Authority)
- DOH Abu Dhabi (Department of Health – Abu Dhabi)
Although each authority has its own online system, the steps are mostly similar.
Here’s the easy version:
Step 1: Make Sure You Have Enough CME Hours
CME = Continuing Medical Education.
Every healthcare professional must complete a certain number of CME/CPD hours (training courses, conferences, workshops) before renewing.
- Doctors usually need more hours.
- Nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals need fewer.
Make sure your CME certificates are valid and uploaded.
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Step 2: Log In to Your Health Authority Account
Go to the online portal where your license was issued:
- MOHAP → “eServices / Sheryan”
- DHA → “Sheryan”
- DOH → “TAMM / DOH Licensing System”
Once logged in, look for “License Renewal”.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Generally, you will need:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID
- Recent photograph
- Valid malpractice insurance
- CME/CPD certificates
- Good Standing Certificate (sometimes required)
The portal will show exactly what you need.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fees
Fees vary depending on your profession and authority.
All payments are done online through the portal.
Step 5: Submit the Renewal Application
After uploading everything and paying the fee, click Submit.
Approval usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the authority and if extra checks are needed.
Step 6: Receive Your Renewed License
Once approved, you can download your renewed license directly from your account. In most cases, it’s valid for one year.
Tips to Make Renewal Easier
- Start the process at least 1–2 months before your license expires.
- Keep a folder of all updated CME certificates.
- Make sure your malpractice insurance is active before applying.
- Ensure your Good Standing Certificate (if required) is recent, usually not older than 3 months.
When should I start the renewal process?
You should start the renewal process 1–2 months before your medical license expires.
This gives you enough time to:
- Complete any remaining CME/CPD hours
- Renew your malpractice insurance
- Gather documents like Emirates ID, passport copy, and photo
- Request a Good Standing Certificate (if needed)
- Fix any issues the health authority might ask you to correct
Ready to Start Your Medical Career in UAE?
Have questions about your medical license or facility setup? Contact us today and let’s make your journey seamless!
How long is the renewed license valid?
In the United Arab Emirates, a renewed medical license is typically valid for one year.
This applies to licenses issued by:
- MOHAP
- DHA
- DOH Abu Dhabi
After one year, you’ll need to renew it again by completing CME hours, updating documents, and applying through your health authority’s online system.
Can I still work while my renewal is in process?
Yes, you can continue working only if your medical license is still valid while the renewal is being processed in the United Arab Emirates.
Can I renew my license if I am outside the UAE?
Yes, you can renew your medical license even if you’re outside the United Arab Emirates, since the entire process is done online through the MOHAP, DHA, or DOH portals. As long as your documents such as CME hours, passport copy, Emirates ID, and malpractice insurance are valid and uploaded, you can complete the renewal from anywhere in the world.
Conclusion
Renewing your medical license in the UAE is simple once you know what to do. Just keep your documents updated, complete your CME hours, and follow the online steps through your health authority’s portal.
Faqs
1. When should I renew my medical license?
You should apply for renewal before the license expiry date to avoid penalties.
2. How many CME credits are required for renewal?
CME requirements depend on your category and regulatory authority guidelines.
3. Is malpractice insurance mandatory for renewal?
Yes, valid professional indemnity insurance is required.
4. Can I renew an expired medical license?
Yes, but late fees or additional conditions may apply.
5. How long does the renewal process take?
Processing time varies by authority, usually a few working days to weeks.
6. Can I work while my renewal is in process?
No, you must have an active license to legally practice.
