If you’re a medical professional looking to work in Dubai, one of the most important steps is obtaining a medical license. The healthcare sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), especially in Dubai, is highly regulated to ensure top-quality service and patient safety. You must pass the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licensing exam in order to practice lawfully. Here’s everything you need to know about the process, eligibility, and preparation. Blogs
What Is the Dubai Medical License Exam?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) administers the Dubai Medical License Exam, which is a prerequisite for physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other allied health professionals who want to operate in Dubai’s healthcare sector. It evaluates a candidate’s clinical knowledge, ethical standards, and practical competencies to ensure they meet the region’s medical standards.
Who Needs to Take the DHA Exam?
The following groups of medical practitioners must take the DHA exam:
- General Practitioners and Specialists
- Dentists and Dental Technicians
- Nurses and Midwives
- Pharmacists
- Laboratory Technicians
- Physiotherapists and Allied Health Professionals
You must hold a current DHA license if you intend to work in Dubai in any of these capacities.
Eligibility Requirements
Before you can sit for the DHA exam, you must meet certain criteria:
- Educational Qualifications:
You must hold a recognized medical degree or diploma relevant to your profession from an accredited institution. - Work Experience:
- For doctors: At least 2 years of post-internship clinical experience.
- For nurses: Generally 2 years of experience is required.
- For allied health professionals: TDepending on their line of work, allied health practitioners may need different levels of experience.
- Good Standing Certificate:
You must provide a certificate of good standing from your current or previous medical board or health authority. - Language Proficiency:
English proficiency is essential. Although there is no formal English test, you must be able to read and understand medical literature and communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.
How to Apply for the DHA Exam
Applications are submitted via the Sheryan site of the DHA. Here are the basic steps:
- On the DHA website, create a Sheryan account.
- Send in your documents using DataFlow for Primary Source Verification (PSV). This stage guarantees the authenticity of your professional and educational credentials.
- Credentialing and Eligibility Approval: Once verified, DHA will review your qualifications.
- Schedule the Exam: You can book your Prometric exam (computer-based) after receiving eligibility approval.
- Pass the Exam: Once you pass, you can proceed with licensing and job applications.
Exam Format and Preparation
Each profession has a different number of questions and time allotted for the computer-based multiple-choice DHA exam. For example, doctors usually face 100 questions in 2.5 hours.
Here’s how to prepare:
- Review your specialty’s core topics thoroughly.
- Use DHA-approved study materials and guides.
- To familiarize yourself with the format, do practice examinations and mock exams.
- Join online forums and study groups for shared resources and tips.
Validity and License Renewal
The license you obtain after passing the DHA exam usually lasts for a year. You need to renew it annually and complete Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours to remain eligible for renewal.
Conclusion
Passing the Dubai Medical License Exam is a crucial step in building your medical career in the UAE. While the process may seem lengthy, careful preparation and organization can make it smoother. From verifying your credentials to acing the Prometric exam, every step ensures that only qualified, competent professionals serve in Dubai’s thriving healthcare system.
If you’re serious about working in Dubai, start preparing today for your medical career in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare hubs! Contact Montgo Health For Any Help
Frequently Ask Questions
1. How to get a Dubai medical license?
To obtain a medical license in Dubai, register on the DHA’s Sheryan portal, complete Primary Source Verification (DataFlow), pass the DHA exam, and finalize the licensing process through credentialing and registration.
2. What is the medical licensing exam in the UAE?
The medical licensing exam in Dubai is the DHA exam, administered by the Dubai Health Authority. Other emirates have separate authorities: HAAD (Abu Dhabi) and MOH (other emirates).
3. Who is eligible for the DHA exam in Dubai?
Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and allied health workers with recognized qualifications and clinical experience are eligible, provided they meet DHA’s specific criteria.
4. How much is the DHA exam fee in the UAE?
The exam fee varies depending on the profession and test type. Exact costs can be found on the DHA or Prometric website.
5. What is the salary after passing the DHA exam in Dubai?
Salaries vary by profession, specialty, experience, and employer. For example, doctors may earn AED 20,000–60,000/month, nurses around AED 6,000–15,000/month, depending on role and qualifications.
