A healthcare career in the Gulf is the dream of many healthcare graduates around the world. And the UAE has come on top of the list for years now. The country boasts high salaries and zero tax cuts.
A valid reason indeed, for being the dream destination.
Healthcare Assessment Exams in UAE
Before you can start your practice, you would need to clear the assessment of the country’s health authority. It is an essential step to maintain the healthcare standard of the country we all enjoy.
Well, that’s easier said than done. And not because of the exam. The question here is, which exam?
That’s true, the UAE has not one, not two, but three different licensing authorities and therefore three different exams:
- DHA,
- DOH (formerly HADD), and
- MOH
Each exam opens doors in different Emirates.
So what’s the difference?
Think of it this way:
- DHA: Dubai
- DOH: Abu Dhabi & Al Ain
- MOH: Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah & Umm Al Quwain
You see, each authority controls licensing in specific regions
So, the main question is- where do you want to work?
Quick Overview of the Exam Format & Content for Each Authority
The three exams follow a similar pattern. The differences are subtle. Let’s understand them.
All three exams are:
- Computer-based test (CBT)
- Multiple-choice questions
- 60–65% passing marks
Here's how they compare:
| Parameters | DHA Test | DOH Exam | MOH Exam |
| Exam Mode | Online, CBT | Online, CBT | Online, CBT |
| Conducted By | Prometric | Pearson VUE | Prometric |
| Components | MCQ | MCQ+ Oral | MCQ+ Oral |
| Language | English | English | English + Arabic |
| Questions | 100–150 MCQ | 100–150 MCQ | 120–150 MCQ |
| Time | 2-3 Hrs | 3 Hrs | 2-3 Hrs |
| Passing Score | 60-70% | 60–65% | 60% |
| Additional Points | Straightforward questions | Focus on case-based questions | Simple MCQs |
- DHA test is known for a straightforward MCQ format in English only
- DOH exam integrates clinical case/ethical scenarios, making it more nuanced
- MOH assessment adds a viva/practical exam after the MCQ portion. It also supports Arabic for those more at ease in that language.
So, which one is the one for you?
Let’s understand the more important differences.
Differences That Really Matter
Where You Can Work
- DHA license = work only in Dubai
- DOH license = only Abu Dhabi/Al Ain
- MOH license = the rest of the Emirates
But here’s a handy trick: after one year of working, you can convert your license to another Emirates authority.
Cost & Attempt Limits
- All exams require DataFlow verification. This can cost you around AED 1,000–1,500.
- Exam & application:
- DHA: AED 900–1,100
- DOH: AED 1,100–1,300
- MOH: AED 1,000–1,400+ oral exam fees
- Most candidates have up to 3 attempts at each exam
Which Exam Suits You Best?
To decide this, ask yourself a few questions
1. Where do I want to live and work?
- Dubai – Go for the DHA test
- Abu Dhabi/Al Ain- Go for the DOH assessment
- Other Emirates- Register for the MOH exam
2. What exam style suits me?
- Prefer MCQ-only? DHA or DOH
- Want Arabic option or hands-on viva? MOH
- Like clinical case studies? DOH
3. How fast do I want to get started?
- DHA Exam, with its simpler MCQ format, is often seen as the quickest route.
- DOH Exam may feel slightly tougher due to case-based depth
Career & License Flexibility
Here’s the benefit: you can actually transfer licenses. You just need to work for at least a year and meet certain conditions.
You would also need to pay a conversion fee. This can vary between AED 2000 and AED 4000.
That means you could start in Dubai and later move to Abu Dhabi without re-examining.
Eligibility For the Registration Exams
Beyond the exam, all three licensing pathways share these requirements:
- Recognized degree
- 2 years of clinical experience
- Valid home license
- Good Standing Certificate
- Pass DataFlow verification
Decision Time: Which Exam to Take?
1. Pick your preferred Emirates region
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have higher salaries
⬇️
2. Check your language preference
English vs Arabic
⬇️
3. Decide on format comfort
MCQ-only vs clinical vs viva
⬇️
4. Consider long-term mobility
DHA offers easy transfer to others after working
⬇️
5. Assess your timeline
DHA might be the fastest due to its no-viva, simpler MCQ format
What Should You Do Next?
- Choose your Emirate first answer where you want to work.
- Register on the respective portal (Sheryan, DOH, MOH).
- Upload documents & pay DataFlow fees.
- Schedule your exam.
- Prepare smart: Join coaching classes and find relevant preparation material.
- Take the test, pass, and get licensed!
Begin Your Healthcare Career in the UAE
The decision of selecting which exam to take for a career in the UAE can be confusing.
With some clarity around where you want to work, your path forward starts to shape up.
Need help choosing study resources, or want deeper insights into any authority’s licensing process, just ask!
Academically has been helping healthcare professionals across the globe settle and establish their careers in the Gulf. Connect with us to know more.
