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Did you know that nearly 80% of Dubai’s healthcare sector is made up of overseas professionals? Dubai has consistently been the highest-paying destination for healthcare professionals. The high packages, with zero tax, and the lifestyle of the country are just some of the reasons for this.
If you’re also looking into moving to Dubai to kickstart your healthcare career, you need to know about the Dubai Health Authority exams. The DHA exams apply to all healthcare professionals, both foreign-trained and local, who want to work in any healthcare setting under the Dubai Health Authority.
These exams are for:
- Doctors
- Dentists
- Nurses
- Pharmacists,
And other healthcare professionals.
This blog will break down the basics of the DHA exam for you. From eligibility criteria to documentation, fees, and much more.
Let’s dive right into it.
What Is the DHA License?
If you want to practice within Dubai’s healthcare system, you need to be licensed by the Dubai Health Authority..
The DHA license ensures that professionals are skilled according to Dubai’s healthcare standards. It encompasses their competency in terms of qualifications, ethical conduct, and clinical skills.
Who Needs a DHA License?
You must apply for a DHA license exam if you are planning to work as a:
- General Practitioner
- Dentist
- Nurse or Midwife
- Pharmacist
- Lab Tech
- Radiographer
- Physiotherapist
This exam is also for those who are residents of the UAE. Whether you want to start your practice or change your setting, you would need to take the DHA exam.
Eligibility Criteria for the DHA Exam
Educational Qualifications
- A recognized bachelor’s or diploma degree in your healthcare field.
- Degree must be awarded by a recognized university or institution listed in the UAE unified health regulatory body (PQR – Professional Qualification Requirements).
Work Experience
| S.No | Profession | Work Experience |
| 1 | Doctors | Minimum 2 years post-internship experience |
| 2 | Dentists | |
| 3 | Nurses | Minimum 2 years clinical experience |
| 4 | Pharmacists | |
| 5 | Allied Healthcare Professionals | |
| 6 | Consultants and Specialists | May require more; varies by specialization. |
Language Proficiency
- English proficiency is mandatory (IELTS/TOEFL for certain categories)
- Arabic language is not mandatory but preferred in some settings
If you’re confused as to whether you’re eligible or not for the DHA exam, connect with our experts at Academically and explore your options.
Documents Required for the DHA Exam
You’ll need to submit clear scanned copies of the following documents:
- Passport-size photograph
- Valid passport copy
- Educational certificates
- Transcripts
- Professional license from home country
- Good Standing Certificate (valid within the last 6 months)
- Work experience certificates
- Updated CV/Resume
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Note that all the documents must be in English or Arabic. If not, they must be officially translated and attested.
How to Apply for the DHA License Exam?
Step 1: Create an Account on DHA Sheryan Portal.
- Visit the official DHA License Page
- Create a professional account
- Fill in your personal and professional details
- Upload scanned documents
Ensure that your name and details are as per your passport.
Step 2: Credential Verification via DataFlow
Before you can be approved to sit for the exam, DHA requires Primary Source Verification (PSV) of your qualifications via DataFlow Group.
- You’ll be redirected to the DHA-DataFlow portal
- Upload the same documents you submitted to Sheryan
- Pay the DataFlow fee
- The fee is between AED 1000–1,500 (23,000 - 34,500 INR). It depends on the profession and the number of documents.
It can take 2-6 weeks for the verification process to complete.
Step 3: Apply for the DHA Exam
Once DataFlow verification is successful, you’ll receive an eligibility notification to book the Prometric exam. Prometric is the testing partner for DHA.
- Visit the official site of Prometric
- Choose the Dubai Health Authority option
- Select your exam type
- Choose your exam center
- Pay the exam fee
- Book your test date
Step 4: Receive DHA Exam Results
- Results are available within 2–5 business days
- If you pass, the status will change to "Eligible" on the Sheryan portal
- If you fail, you may reapply.
The number of reattempts is different for different exams.
Important Note: For pharmacists, after the DHA exam, you also need to clear the oral assessment.
Step 5: Apply for DHA License Activation (Eligibility Letter)
Once you pass, apply for your Eligibility Letter through Sheryan:
- Submit additional documents if requested
- Pay the licensing fee
- The fee varies depending on your profession.
- You can now search for jobs legally in Dubai using your Eligibility Letter
Step 6: Secure a Job and Facility Sponsorship
You can only receive a full DHA license after you are hired by a DHA-approved healthcare facility:
- The facility applies on your behalf for license activation
- Once approved, you’ll receive your DHA license card
With your license in hand, you're all set to practice in Dubai.
DHA Exam Format:
- Mode- Computer-based test (CBT)
- Number of Questions- 100–150 MCQs
- Exam Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Marking Scheme- No negative marking
Generally, the passing score is between 55–60%. It depends on the exam category.
Preparation Tips for DHA Exams
- Use Prometric practice exams
- Study with international standard textbooks
- Refer to DHA’s unified PQR document for the exam syllabus
- Join DHA exam prep groups on Facebook or Telegram
- Enroll in coaching programs and study groups
Final Checklist Before You Apply for the DHA Exam
- Confirm eligibility via DHA’s PQR Guidelines
- Gather and scan all required documents
- Start DataFlow verification early
- Monitor your status daily on the Sheryan account
- Join online coaching and keep the preparation materials ready
Your Dubai Healthcare Career Awaits
Dubai has a lot to offer medical professionals, both in terms of career growth and quality of life. From zero tax to employee benefits and bonuses, the place has a lot to offer. Wherever you are in your career, Dubai awaits you.
The DHA exam is your first step into a successful and fruitful medical career.
Though the application process for the DHA exam might seem lengthy, it is structured and transparent. Thousands of professionals pass it every year, and you can also join the ranks with Academically.
Academically provides preparation courses for DHA courses for dentists and pharmacists. The courses include not only live and recorded sessions, but also mentor guidance, doubt clearing sessions, community support and AI based mock exams. Join hands with Academically and clear the DHA exam on your first attempt.
