DHA Pharmacist Exam Guide: Syllabus, Passing Score And Preparation Tips

Feb 19, 2025 2 minutes
DHA Pharmacist Exam Guide: Syllabus, Passing Score & Preparation Tips

Key Takeaways:

  • DHA Pharmacist Exam is mandatory for overseas pharmacists to practice in Dubai.
  • The DHA Exam for pharmacists consists of 150 MCQs in a 3-hour duration, which is computer-based.
  • The passing score of the DHA Exam is 60%
  • To be eligible for the DHA Exam, you should have a B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or Pharm.D degree with 2 years of experience.

About DHA Exam

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Pharmacist Exam is a mandatory test for pharmacists seeking licensure to practice in Dubai. This exam assesses candidates’ knowledge in various pharmaceutical subjects, ensuring they meet the standards required for safe and effective patient care in Dubai.

To be eligible for the DHA Pharmacists exam, you must have:

  • A degree in B.Pharm, M.Pharm or Pharm.D degree.
  • A minimum of two years of experience in retail or hospital pharmacy.
  • A registered pharmacist in their home country.

DHA Pharmacist Exam Syllabus

The DHA Pharmacist exam covers a wide range of subjects, ensuring that pharmacists have a strong grasp of both clinical and theoretical concepts. Below are the key areas tested:

  • Toxicology
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Sterile and Nonsterile Compounding
  • Pharmaceutics/Biopharmaceutics
  • Pharmacognosy and Dietary Supplements
  • Pharmacy Calculation and Compounding
  • Clinical pharmacogenomics
  • Infection Control
  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Pharmaceutical Care and Disease State Management
  • Medication Safety
  • Over the Counter Medication
  • Pharmacy Law and Ethics
  • Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutic Decision Making

DHA Pharmacist Exam Format

Exam DetailsInformation
Exam ModeComputer-based
Total Duration3 hours
Number of Questions150 multiple-choice questions
Exam FeeUSD 240
Passing Score60%

To excel in the DHA Pharmacist exam, candidates should refer to the following standard textbooks:

1. Dick R. Gourley, James C. Eoff III, The APhA Complete Review for Pharmacy, the American Pharmacists Association. William E Paul. Fundamental Immunology, Philadelphia, USA, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

2. Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Biochemistry.

3. Leon Shargel, Alan H. Munick, Paul F. Souney, Larry N. Swanson. Comprehensive Pharmacy Review

4. Goodman & Gilman's: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics.

5. Shargel, Applied Biopharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, the Middle East Observer, USA: Appleton and Lange.

6. Howard C. Ansel, Mitchell J. Stoklosa, Pharmaceutical Calculations.

7. Aulton, M., E., Pharmaceutics: The Science of Dosage Form Design, London Churchill Livingstone.

8. Karen E. Stine, Thomas M. Brown, Principles of Toxicology.

9. Karen Rascati. Essentials of Pharmacoeconomics. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Tips for Cracking the DHA Pharmacist Exam

Understand the Exam Pattern

Familiarise yourself with the multiple-choice question format and the types of questions asked.

Study the Core Topics

Focus on key subjects like pharmacology, pharmaceutics, and pharmacy calculations, as these form the foundation of the exam.

Use Standard References

Stick to the recommended textbooks to ensure you’re studying from reliable and accurate sources.

Practice Mock Tests

Simulate exam conditions with practice tests to improve time management and identify weak areas.

Stay Updated

Keep yourself informed about current pharmaceutical guidelines, regulations, and industry trends.

Join a Coaching Class

Enrolling in a DHA exam coaching program can provide structured learning, expert guidance, and access to valuable study materials, increasing your chances of success.

Conclusion

The DHA Pharmacist exam is an important step for pharmacists aiming to practice in Dubai. With the right preparation, understanding of the syllabus, and use of recommended books, you can clear the exam with confidence.

If you’re planning to take the exam, start your DHA exam preparation early and ensure thorough revision of all key topics. 

Good luck!

You can explore more career opportunities for pharmacists around the world. All you have to do is fill up this form and talk to our expert regarding the best country for you. 

FAQs

Q. What is the pattern of DHA exam?

The DHA Pharmacist Exam is a computer-based test consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Candidates are given 3 hours to complete the exam, and the passing score is 60%.

Q. What type of questions are asked in the DHA exam?

The exam primarily includes scenario-based and knowledge-based MCQs covering topics such as pharmacology, pharmaceutics, toxicology, medication safety, pharmacy law, and ethics. The questions test both theoretical understanding and practical application in pharmaceutical practice.

Q. What is the salary of a DHA pharmacist in Dubai?

The salary of a DHA-licensed pharmacist in Dubai varies based on experience, job role, and the healthcare facility. On average the annual salary of a pharmacist in Dubai is INR 25 lakhs.

Q. How many attempts are allowed for the DHA Pharmacist Exam?

Candidates can attempt the DHA Pharmacist Exam up to three times. If unsuccessful after the third attempt, they may need to fulfill additional requirements set by the Dubai Health Authority before reapplying.

Q. How long is the DHA license valid, and how can it be renewed?

The DHA license is typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Pharmacists must complete the required Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits and submit a renewal application through the DHA online portal.

Dr. Akram Ahmad
Dr. Akram Ahmad
about the author

Dr. Akram Ahmad is a clinical pharmacist and lecturer with over 10 years of teaching and research experience across various subjects of medicine in India, Malaysia and Australia. He is an educationist and a medpreneur with extensive knowledge of the global healthcare diaspora. Through his articles, videos and engaging sessions, he always aims to impart unexplored knowledge about the healthcare world to interested students and professionals.