Are you thinking of working as a General Practitioner (GP) in Dubai in 2025?
You’re not alone, Dubai is one of the top destinations for doctors worldwide. With a booming population, world-class healthcare facilities, and tax-free salaries, it’s a dream location for many international medical graduates (IMGs).
In this blog, let’s break down how to build a GP career in Dubai. Also, you will understand the expected salaries, job opportunities, licensing requirements, and long-term growth prospects are.
Why Dubai is a Hotspot for General Practitioners in 2025
Dubai’s healthcare sector is rapidly expanding thanks to:
- Growing expat population → More primary healthcare demand
- Government focus on medical tourism → Increased need for qualified doctors
- World-class infrastructure → Private clinics and hospitals mushrooming across the city
- Tax-free earnings → Higher take-home income compared to Western countries
In short, there’s never been a better time to work as a GP in Dubai.
Eligibility Requirements
Before you plan your move, ensure you meet these requirements:
- MBBS or equivalent degree from a WHO-recognized university
- Minimum 2 years of clinical experience post-internship
- Good Standing Certificate from your medical council
- Attested documents (degree, transcripts, passport, experience certificates)
Step-by-Step Career Path for General Practitioners in Dubai
| Step | What You Need to Do | Tips |
| Get Licensed | Pass the DHA Exam (for Dubai). | Apply online, prepare, and schedule your Prometric exam. |
| Get Your Eligibility Letter | After passing, apply for a DHA eligibility letter to show employers you are ready to practice. | This is a major hiring advantage, many clinics prefer doctors with eligibility in hand. |
| Apply for Jobs | Use Dubai job portals, LinkedIn, or directly apply to clinics & hospitals. | Networking helps, join Dubai doctor forums & WhatsApp groups. |
| Relocate & Complete Licensing | Once you have a job offer, complete your dataflow verification and get your license activated. | Employers usually assist with this process. |
| Start Practicing & Grow | Work in clinics/hospitals, build a patient base, and upgrade your skills. | Consider a Family Medicine Specialist qualification for long-term growth. |
DHA Exam Preparation Tips
Passing the DHA exam is a key step. Here’s how to prepare effectively:
- Focus on Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, OBGY, Psychiatry
- Use updated DHA/Prometric question banks
- Practice time management – 150 questions in 3 hours
- Join peer study groups for guidance and tips
- Revise clinical guidelines and latest treatment protocols
- Join Academically’s DHA preparation course, where you’ll get:
- Live and recorded lectures
- Study materials and practice questions
- AI-based mock tests
- Personalized guidance and more
General Practitioner Salary in Dubai (2025)
| Experience Level | Average Monthly Salary (AED) | Approx. Salary in INR |
| Entry-level (0-2 yrs) | 18,000 – 20,000 | ₹4.0L – ₹4.5L |
| Mid-level (3-5 yrs) | 22,000 – 26,000 | ₹5.0L – ₹5.8L |
| Senior GP (5+ yrs) | 28,000 – 30,000+ | ₹6.2L – ₹6.7L |
Cost of Living in Dubai vs Salary
Understanding expenses helps you plan better. Here’s a rough monthly breakdown:
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost (AED) |
| Rent (1 BHK) | 4,500 – 6,500 |
| Transport | 400 – 800 |
| Food & Groceries | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| Utilities & Internet | 700 – 1,000 |
| Leisure/Entertainment | 500 – 1,000 |
Even after expenses, most GPs save 40–50% of their salary monthly, which is a big reason Dubai is attractive for doctors.
Growth Opportunities for GPs in Dubai
Once you settle as a GP, you can grow your career further:
- Specialize – Get certified as a Family Medicine Specialist
- Move to Bigger Hospitals – Higher pay & better patient flow
- Open Your Own Clinic – Many doctors eventually become entrepreneurs
- Management Roles – Clinic Director, Medical Director, or Quality Assurance Head
Dubai rewards doctors who stay, upskill, and contribute to healthcare development.
Job Market & Where to Apply
Top job portals and recruiters for GPs in Dubai:
- Naukrigulf
- Bayt
- Indeed UAE
- LinkedIn (very active recruiter market)
- Direct hospital websites (Aster, NMC, Mediclinic, Saudi German, Thumbay)
Work-Life Balance & Lifestyle
Dubai offers:
- 5-6 day work weeks (8-9 hour shifts)
- Diverse patient population
- International schools, good safety, and modern amenities
- A vibrant expat community, making relocation easier
Challenges of Working as a GP in Dubai
No career is without challenges. Some common ones:
- Cultural differences – Patients may have different expectations
- High patient load – Especially in busy clinics
- Adapting to EMR systems – Electronic medical records can be overwhelming initially
Tips to Overcome Challenges:
- Learn basic Arabic medical terms for smooth communication
- Attend EMR training programs
- Build a support network with other expat doctors
Future Outlook for GPs in Dubai (2025–2030)
Dubai’s government plans to expand primary care centers and boost medical tourism revenue, meaning:
- Steady demand for qualified GPs
- More opportunities in private and government clinics
- Better career stability and potential for long-term growth
Final Word
Being a General Practitioner in Dubai in 2025 is one of the most rewarding global opportunities for doctors. With strong demand, tax-free income, and a high quality of life, Dubai is a great choice if you’re planning to move abroad.
If you’re serious about working in Dubai, start with your DHA licensing, it’s the first step to securing your dream job.
And if you are confused about where to begin, reach out to experts at Academically. They will help you from the start till the end.