Obtaining a medical license in Dubai is a mandatory requirement for any healthcare professional who wants to legally practice in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE’s healthcare system is regulated by different health authorities, each responsible for licensing and monitoring medical professionals within its jurisdiction.

Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or allied health specialist, you’ll need to apply for and obtain the appropriate license before starting your medical practice. The three main authorities are:

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – for Dubai

• Department of Health (DOH) – for Abu Dhabi

• Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) – for the remaining Emirates

Each has its own process and criteria, but all aim to ensure that only qualified, competent, and ethical professionals provide healthcare services in the UAE.

What Is a DHA License?

If you’re planning to work in Dubai, you’ll need to understand what a DHA license is and how to obtain it. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) oversees all medical practitioners in Dubai.

A DHA license gives you legal permission to work within Dubai’s healthcare facilities—be it public hospitals, private clinics, or medical centers. It validates your qualifications, verifies your professional background, and confirms your ability to deliver safe and effective care.

DHA License Requirements

To qualify for a DHA license, you must:

1. Hold a recognized medical or healthcare qualification.

2. Possess a valid professional license from your home country or last place of work.

3. Have at least two years of post-qualification experience (this varies by specialty).

4. Complete Primary Source Verification (PSV) for all academic and professional documents.

5. Obtain a valid Good Standing Certificate from your current or previous medical council.

DHA License Application Process

The application is managed online through the DHA Sheryan Portal. Here’s how it works:

1. Create a Sheryan account and submit your eligibility application.

2. Upload documents for PSV verification.

3. Take the DHA exam (Prometric or oral) if required based on your country and specialty.

4. Once approved, receive your eligibility letter.

5. After getting an employment offer, apply for license activation through your employer.

6. Renew the license annually with proof of Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours.

The DHA license is valid for one year and ensures that your credentials remain current and compliant with Dubai’s healthcare standards.

Understanding the DOH License Process in Abu Dhabi

If your goal is to work in Abu Dhabi, you must apply for authorization through the Department of Health (DOH). The DOH license process follows a similar structure to DHA but has its own regulatory framework and examination system.

DOH License Requirements

Applicants must meet the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) issued by the DOH. This document outlines academic, professional, and clinical experience criteria for each category of healthcare professional.

You’ll need:

• A recognized medical degree or equivalent qualification

• Proof of clinical experience (minimum two years for most categories)

• A current license from your home country or last place of employment

• Good Standing Certificate

• Primary Source Verification (PSV) of all documents

DOH License Application Steps

1. Create an account on the DOH portal and complete the eligibility assessment.

2. Submit documents for PSV through the DataFlow Group.

3. Take the DOH exam if required for your specialty.

4. After approval, receive your license electronically via the DOH system.

5. Renew your license annually with updated CME hours and employment verification.

The DOH license process ensures that healthcare professionals meet global standards before practicing in the capital city of the UAE.

Understanding the MOH License Process in Other Emirates

The MOH license process applies to healthcare professionals who wish to work in any of the other Emirates  Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, or Umm Al Quwain. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) oversees licensing, compliance, and regulation in these regions.

MOH License Requirements

To apply for a MOH license, you’ll need to:

1. Pass the professional evaluation conducted by MOHAP.

2. Submit educational, identification, and experience documents.

3. Provide proof of professional liability insurance.

4. Submit a medical fitness report (for applicants aged 60 and above).

5. Ensure no employment gap exceeds two years unless supported by recent training.

6. Obtain approval from your current employer if transferring from another facility.

MOH License Application Steps

1. Register through the MOHAP eServices portal.

2. Upload all required documents for verification.

3. Complete the professional evaluation (exam or interview).

4. Once approved, receive your electronic license and begin practice.

5. Renew annually to maintain your professional status.

The MOH license process allows healthcare professionals to work across multiple Emirates (excluding Dubai and Abu Dhabi) under one regulatory framework.

DHA vs DOH vs MOH: Which License Is Right for You?

Choosing between the three licensing authorities depends on where you intend to work:

• DHA License – for Dubai-based healthcare facilities.

• DOH License – for Abu Dhabi hospitals and clinics.

• MOH License – for other Emirates in the UAE.

All three authorities have unified eligibility standards and verification systems, but their licensing and renewal processes are separate. You can transfer between them later, but conversion often requires additional approvals or assessments.

Tips for a Smooth Licensing Journey

• Start early: PSV verification can take several weeks.

• Organize your documents: Ensure all certifications are valid and attested.

• Check for exam exemptions: Some countries are exempt from Prometric or oral exams.

• Stay compliant: Track your CME requirements and renewal deadlines.

• Be transparent: Declare any employment gaps or disciplinary actions honestly.

Conclusion

Getting a medical license in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE is a structured but achievable process. Whether you apply through DHA, DOH, or MOHAP, each pathway ensures that only qualified and experienced healthcare professionals serve the community.

By understanding what is DHA license, following the correct DOH license process, and completing the MOH license process diligently, you can build a successful medical career in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare environments.