Opening a healthcare facility in Dubai whether it’s a clinic, pharmacy, dental centre, or hospital requires going through a proper licensing system. Dubai takes health standards seriously, so every facility must meet safety, quality, and professional rules.
If you’re planning to start a new facility, here’s a simple breakdown of how the Dubai Health Licensing System works.
1. Choose Your Facility Type
The first step is deciding what type of healthcare facility you want to open, such as:
- Clinic
- Hospital
- Pharmacy
- Rehabilitation centre
- Day surgery centre
The requirements will change depending on the type.
2. Create an Account on the Health Authority Portal
In Dubai, healthcare licences are issued through:
- DHA (Dubai Health Authority) – for facilities inside Dubai
- DHCC (Dubai Healthcare City Authority) – for facilities inside Dubai Healthcare City free zone
You must create an account on their online systems like Sheryan (DHA’s licensing portal).
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3. Submit an Initial Application
You start by sending basic details:
- Facility name
- Facility type
- Owner details
- Location
This step is for Initial Approval.
If approved, you can move to the design stage.
4. Get Your Facility Layout/Design Approved
You must upload your floor plan, layout, and interior design for review.
Dubai checks:
- The size of rooms
- Patient flow
- Safety features
- Emergency exits
- Hygiene standards
Once your design matches DHA rules, you get the Design Approval.
5. Build and Set Up the Facility
After the design is approved, you can start construction or interior setup.
Make sure you follow:
- Fire safety rules
- Infection control standards
- Equipment guidelines
Dubai will inspect everything later.
6. Apply for the Final Inspection
Once your facility is ready, you book a site inspection.
Inspectors check:
- Rooms and layout
- Equipment
- Safety systems
- Cleanliness and hygiene
- Staff readiness
If something is missing, they’ll tell you to fix it.
7. Get the Final Facility License
When everything looks perfect, you receive your official Healthcare Facility License.
This allows you to officially start treating patients.
8. Register Your Healthcare Professionals
Every doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or technician in your facility needs a separate professional license from DHA or DHCC.
You can link the staff members to your facility through the online portal.
9. Renew Yearly and Follow the Rules
Facility licenses are usually valid for one year, and you must renew them.
Also, Dubai always updates healthcare rules, so facilities must:
- Maintain high-quality care
- Keep equipment safe
- Follow patient privacy rules
- Train staff
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 does the licensing process take?
The licensing process in Dubai usually takes a few months, typically around 2 to 6 months, but it can vary depending on the type of facility and how quickly you complete each step. First, you get initial approval for your facility details, then design approval for the layout and safety standards. After setting up your facility according to the approved plan, a final inspection is done. If everything meets the rules, you get your official license. Delays can happen if documents are incomplete or if corrections are needed after inspections.
Do I need special approvals for x-ray rooms or labs?
Yes, if your facility plans to have x-ray rooms, imaging equipment, or medical labs, you need special approvals from the health authorities. These areas have extra safety rules because of radiation (for x-rays) and strict hygiene and equipment standards (for labs). Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or DHCC will check that your rooms are properly designed, the equipment is safe, and staff are trained to handle it correctly before allowing you to use them. This ensures both patients and staff stay safe while getting accurate results.
Can I run the facility without the final license?
No, you cannot run a healthcare facility without the final license. Doing so is illegal in Dubai and can lead to fines, closure of your facility, and other legal problems. You must complete all approvals, inspections, and get the official license before you start treating patients or providing any medical services.
Why is the Dubai Licensing System Good?
- It keeps healthcare safe
- It avoids low-quality or unqualified services
- It builds trust for patients
- It maintains international healthcare standards
Conclusion
Getting a healthcare facility licensed in Dubai may seem like a detailed process, but it’s designed to ensure safety, quality, and professionalism for patients. By following each step carefully from initial approval to final inspection and staff registration you can open a facility that meets all regulations and builds trust in the community. Staying updated with Dubai Health Authority rules and maintaining high standards will help your facility succeed and provide the best care possible. Contact Us
Frequently Ask Questions
1. What is the Dubai Health Licensing System?
It is an online platform managed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for licensing healthcare professionals and facilities in Dubai.
2. Who needs a license through the DHLS?
All healthcare practitioners, including doctors, nurses, dentists, and medical facilities, must be licensed to legally practice in Dubai.
3. How do I apply for a medical license in Dubai?
Applicants submit documents, credentials, and fees through the DHLS portal, where eligibility is reviewed by the DHA before approval.
4. Can licenses be renewed online?
Yes. The DHLS allows professionals and facilities to renew licenses, update details, and pay fees through the online system.
5. What documents are required for licensing?
Typically, applicants need educational certificates, professional experience letters, passport/ID, and DHA exam results (if applicable).
6. How long does the licensing process take?
Processing times vary depending on the profession and completeness of documents, but the online DHLS system helps streamline approvals efficiently.
