Who Can Become a Pharmacist in Dubai?
- Educational Qualification: Holding a Bachelor of Pharmacy, Master of Pharmacy, or PharmD degree.
- Professional Experience: Having a minimum of two years of experience in retail or hospital pharmacy.
- Registration: Registered pharmacist in their home country.
Steps of DHA Exam For Pharmacists
The procedure to take the DHA exam and become a licensed pharmacist in Dubai can be broadly divided into five steps, which are mentioned below-
1. Preparation of the Required Documents for the DHA Exam
Several documents must be submitted while preparing for the DHA exam for pharmacists. The required documents include:
- Transcript of records
- Work experience
- Colour passport-size photo
- Passport copy
- Pharmacist registration (from home country)
- Certificate of good standing
2. Creation of a Sheryan Account for the DHA Exam
Create a Sheryan account: Go to the DHA Sheryan portal and create an account. This account will be used to process and monitor your licence application.
Fill in the details: Complete the necessary personal and professional information in the Sheryan portal.
3. Application of Primary Source Verification (DHA Data Flow)
Primary Source Verification (PSV): Apply for the primary source verification through the DHA Data Flow system.
Submission: Submit your educational and employment documents for verification.
DHA Dataflow reference number: You will receive a reference number and login details. Use these details to monitor the progress of your application.
Verification process: This process will validate the authenticity of your documents and determine your eligibility for the exam.
4. DHA Exam
Scheduling the exam: Once your documents are verified, schedule your exam through the Sheryan portal.
Prepare for the exam: Study the relevant material and prepare for the examination.
Exam day: Arrive at the exam centre on time with a valid ID. Any delays or issues with your ID may result in dismissal.
5. DHA Exam Results
Check results: Once the results are published, log in to your Sheryan account to access them.
Outcome: The results will be marked as “Pass” or “Fail”.
Licensing: If you pass the exam, you can apply for a DHA pharmacist licence.
Steps After Obtaining Your Licence
Once you have your DHA pharmacist licence, follow these steps to find a job, understand your employment contract, and settle into life in Dubai.
Job Search for Pharmacist in Dubai
Utilise popular job portals to find listings and register with recruitment agencies. Networking is crucial; attend industry events and join professional networks. Additionally, regularly check the career sections of major hospitals and optimise your LinkedIn profile to connect with healthcare professionals.
Employment Contracts
Carefully review employment contracts to ensure the salary aligns with industry standards and accounts for Dubai's cost of living. Check for comprehensive benefits like health insurance, housing allowances, and annual leave. Also, understand the working conditions, including hours, shift patterns, and any professional development opportunities the employer offers.
Settling In
To settle in Dubai, look for convenient housing and familiarise yourself with local laws and customs. Engage with both local and expatriate communities through social clubs and events.
Benefits of Becoming a Pharmacist in Dubai
- Lucrative Salaries: Enjoy competitive salaries and benefits.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement.
- Quality of Life: Experience a high standard of living in a cosmopolitan city with excellent infrastructure.
- Cultural Diversity: Work in a multicultural environment with professionals from worldwide.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Becoming a licensed pharmacist in Dubai can come with its set of challenges. Here are some common hurdles and tips on how to overcome them:
- Document Verification Delays: Ensure all your documents are accurate and complete before submission to avoid delays in the verification process.
- Exam Preparation: Utilise available resources such as online courses (Eg. DHA Exam Preparation For Pharmacists), study groups, and practice exams to prepare effectively for the DHA exam.
- Cultural Adjustment: Familiarise yourself with Dubai’s culture and work environment to ease the transition and enhance your professional experience.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a licensed pharmacist in Dubai offers numerous benefits, including competitive salaries, a growing healthcare market, and a high standard of living. You can smoothly transition into this vibrant and diverse city by following the outlined steps—from obtaining your DHA licence to finding a job and settling into life in Dubai.
If you are considering becoming a pharmacist in Dubai, join Academically’s DHA Exam Preparation Course. You will get all the study resources, practice questions, personalised feedback and more.
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