How can I move from India to Dubai as a Pharmacist in 6 Months

Did you know that Dubai’s healthcare sector is largely comprised of foreign medical professionals? Indians make up a large majority of this. 

As a pharmacist, you can earn up to INR 24 lakhs annually. But to build a career in Dubai, there are certain checkpoints you have to get through. The DHA exam is the biggest of them. And that’s what this blog is about.

This blog will take you through the journey of becoming a pharmacist in Dubai in 6 months. At the same time, read about the snippets of a pharmacist's daily routine in Dubai.

Let’s get right into it.

Why Dubai Is a Top Choice for Indian Pharmacists

The first question that comes to mind is, why Dubai? Over the past few years, the medical sector in Dubai has experienced exponential growth. This has been in response to the demand of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. And like in most sectors, foreign nationals are the ones to fill in this supply gap. But this is not all. Dubai provides multiple benefits to its healthcare professionals.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of working as a pharmacist in Dubai.

1. Keep What You Earn

Pharmacists in Dubai are among the most highly paid. The city is taking its healthcare system global. Hence, the salary and the benefits are set to match the standard. But the additional benefit you get in Dubai is the zero tax. So, you get to keep what you earn, a benefit you’ll find in very few places.

2. Accommodation

If the salary is not enough, there are other incentives to woo you. Many pharmacists who are government employees are entitled to accommodation. With the rise of people moving to Dubai, finding a place to stay might not be easy. So this incentive comes in handy.

3. Career Progression

The licensing process for pharmacists in Dubai is straightforward. This removes a lot of unnecessary roadblocks from your path. Once licensed, you can move into multiple roles. And your learning continues even after this. Many employers provide continuous improvement classes. You can use these as a way to progress in your career.

4. Cultural Comfort and Indian Diaspora

The UAE is home to nearly 3.5 million Indians. Dubai itself has a large Indian diaspora. This means you are never really away from your culture.  Indian languages are commonly spoken. Indian schools, food, and communities are widespread. The culture and environment in Dubai will be a comfortable adjustment. 

5. Living Standards

Dubai is known for its world-class infrastructure. The safety and quality of life are some of the best in the world. The city’s efficient public services and global exposure make it an ideal place to build a life.

6. Global Career Opportunities

Working in Dubai opens doors to further opportunities. You can take your career to other Gulf countries, Canada, the UK, or Australia. A few years of international experience in Dubai boost your resume. Not only this, but it will give you global recognition. 

Well, now that you’re interested in a pharmacy career in Dubai, let us look at the pathway.

Pharmacist’s Journey from India to Dubai in 6 Months?

Indians are among the biggest diaspora in Dubai. Indian pharmacists are increasingly choosing Dubai as their career destination. 

But how long does it take to get there? And what are the steps? 

Here is a brief run-down of the process of getting into Dubai’s healthcare sector:

1. Check your eligibility
2. Take the DHA Exam
3. Register with the DHA
4. Get your DHA Eligibility Letter
5. Secure your Job
6. Activate your DHA Pharmacist license
7. Apply for your Visa
8. Fly to Dubai and begin your career

Now, you might think it’s a lot to accomplish in 6 months. But worry not, let us break this down. The steps are simple. If you’re amply prepared, it will not be long before you are working as a pharmacist in Dubai.

Step 1: Eligibility Criteria for Pharmacists

There are a few eligibility criteria that you need to clear before you begin this journey.

• Educational Qualification: 

Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy- BPharm

Master’s degree in Pharmacy- M.Pharm

Doctor of Pharmacy- PharmD

• Work Experience: 2 years of relevant professional experience 
• Professional License: Registered as a pharmacist in the home country.

English proficiency is desirable because it is a common language. But not a strict requirement. It is better if you have a valid test score in IELTS or TOEFL. 

Step 2: Apply for the DHA Exam 

What is the DHA Exam?

The DHA, as it is commonly called, conducts licensing exams for all pharmacists who want to work in Dubai. 

This DHA exam is compulsory for:

• Fresh pharmacy graduate from Dubai.
• Experienced overseas pharmacist wanting to work in Dubai.
• Licensed pharmacists from other countries.
• Pharmacists shifting base to Dubai from anywhere else in the UAE.

DHA Pharmacists Exam: A Snapshot

Before getting into the application process, here is a brief introduction to the exam.

The syllabus for the exam includes subjects like:

• Pharmacy Calculation and Compounding
• Pharmacokinetics and biopharmaceutics
• Pharmaceutical Care and Disease State Management
• Medication Safety
• OTC Medication
• Pharmacy Law and Ethics. 

Steps to Apply for the DHA Pharmacist Exam

Create a Sheryan Account

Submit Your Documents

Required Documents:

• Passport Copy
• Recent Passport-Sized Photos
• Pharmacy Degree Certificate 
• Transcript of Records
• Experience Certificates from previous employers
• Good Standing Certificate (recent)
• Professional License Copy 
• CV/Resume

All documents should be clear and legible. Ensure they are either in English or translated officially.

Primary Source Verification

How to Apply for PSV:

• Log in to your Sheryan account.
• Submit your documents for DataFlow verification.
• Pay the PSV fees online.
• Document verification can take 2-4 weeks.
• Fee: AED 1000–1200 (INR 23,000- INR 27,600)
• Status: Positive, Negative, or Unable to Verify

Schedule the DHA Exam

Prepare for the Exam

The DHA pharmacists’ exam covers clinical and theoretical knowledge. Use study materials such as:

• Review books
• Online courses
• Practice questions
• Mock Exams

Take the DHA Exam

The DHA Exam can be taken from your home country. Be sure to select a convenient date and center for your exam.

Reach your center before time and carry all required documents.

Step 3: DHA Eligibility Letter

Once you pass the DHA Exam, download your DHA Eligibility Letter.  You can find this on your Sheryan Portal.

With the DHA Eligibility Letter, you can apply for jobs.

The eligibility letter is valid only for one year.

Step 4: Search for Pharmacist Jobs in Dubai

Job search is an integral part of your journey to Dubai. Numerous possibilities are opening up in Dubai for pharmacists. You can either work in the public sector or the private sector.

A few common sites to look for jobs in Dubai are:

• Naukrigulf
• Indeed
• Glassdoor
• GulfTalent

Step 5: Secure an Offer and Start Visa Processing

Once you get your job, the next phase of your journey starts. With the offer letter in hand, you can proceed to activate your pharmacist license. 

The activation process will be initiated by your employer. They will sponsor the license activation through the official account of the company. 

Once you receive your activation request, you can accept it and get your pharmacist license. 

With this, you can start your visa application.

Step 6: Travel to Dubai and Begin Your a Successful Career

Now, you are all set to move to Dubai and start your new career. Here is a checklist to make your task easier:

• Keep all important documents in one place.
• Prepare soft and hard copies of essential documents.
• Start looking for accommodation before starting your journey.
• Look for currency exchange rates.
• Carry an internationally accepted card.
• Connect with people in the community to build a support group.

Alternative Pathways 

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. 

• 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. 

Also Read: DHA Test vs DOH vs MOH

Timeline: Your Month-by-Month Roadmap 

Month 1: Research & Document Preparation

• Understand DHA eligibility and exam requirements
• Get your documents ready
• Start a DHA preparation course

Month 2: DataFlow Verification

• Submit documents for Primary Source Verification
• Start preparing for the DHA Prometric exam

Month 3: Apply for DHA Exam

• After approval, apply for the DHA Exam
• Take mock tests and review case-based MCQs

Month 4: Take the DHA Exam

• Sit for the DHA Exam
• If you pass, download your eligibility letter
• Begin job applications in Dubai

Month 5: Secure Job Offer & Start Visa Process

• Attend interviews if required
• Once you have an offer, start the work visa process
• Prepare to relocate

Month 6: Fly to Dubai & Begin Licensing Activation

• Arrive in Dubai on your employment visa
• Complete the necessary formalities
• Finalize DHA license activation

And now, you can start working as a Registered Pharmacist in Dubai.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

There are a few challenges commonly faced by candidates moving to Dubai. Let us understand these and how to avoid them.

1. DHA Licensing and Documentation Process

Challenge:
Navigating the DHA licensing requirements can be overwhelming. Documentation, verification, and clearing the DHA Prometric exam have to be done within strict guidelines.

Solution:

• Thoroughly check the DHA requirements before starting.
• Prepare attested copies of all important documents in advance.
• Use a reliable consultant to avoid errors or rejections.

2. Issues During DataFlow Verification

Challenge:
Delays or rejections in the PSV process are common. This can be due to:

• Mismatched experience letters
• Outdated contact details 
• Incorrect document uploads

Solution:

• Ensure your documents are clear and updated.
• Keep all information consistent across every document.
• Track the status on the DataFlow portal and respond quickly to any remarks.

3. Underperforming in the DHA Exam

Challenge:
Many pharmacists fail the DHA Prometric Exam due to:

• Poor preparation
• Unfamiliarity with the pattern, or 
• Lack of relevant study materials

Solution:

• Enroll in a DHA preparation course. 
• Take mock exams and practice questions.
• Review clinical case-based questions.
• Allocate sufficient time for preparation.

4. Time-Management and Planning

Challenge:
Some candidates underestimate the timelines. The entire DHA licensing process can take weeks or even months.

Solution:

• Create a and stick to it.
• Start with DataFlow early.
• Keep digital and hard copies of everything ready.

5. Financial Planning and Unexpected Costs

Challenge:
The entire process can cost between INR 1.5–3 lakhs. Many pharmacists don’t budget for it properly.

Solution:

• Make a realistic cost breakdown.
• Start saving early.
• Explore education loans.

6. Finding a Job Post-Licensing

Challenge:
You might struggle to secure a job offer in Dubai due to high competition.

Solution:

• Apply early to DHA-approved hospitals and pharmacies.
• Build a strong Gulf-style CV.
• Register on portals like Bayt and Naukrigulf.
• Also consider temporary or entry-level positions.

7. Visa and Relocation

Challenge:
Processing a UAE work visa can be confusing. Additionally, relocation logistics can be overwhelming.

Solution:

• Let the employer handle the visa process.
• You can also get the help of an authorized agent.
• Join communities on Facebook or WhatsApp for tips and local help.

Stay Informed and Stay Patient

The move to Dubai is very achievable. You only need to plan carefully and remain persistent. Many Indian pharmacists have made it successfully, and you can too.

From India to Dubai – Your Pharmacist Dream in Reach

The DHA licensure exam is only the first step in your healthcare journey to Dubai. The vibrant culture and strong economy have positioned Dubai as a top destination. Now is the perfect time to take the DHA exam. 

To learn more about overseas migration options and get assistance with migrating and registering in your preferred country, contact Academically today. 

We'll help you explore the different options in front of you. Fulfill your dreams of a career abroad with Academically.