The United Arab Emirates is a diverse country. Nearly 80% of its population is made up of expatriates. The population of the UAE is truly global. And for this, the healthcare system in the UAE is also world-class.
The country is fast becoming the top choice for pharmacists to practice. It is not only because of the salary, but also the lifestyle it provides. However, before you can practice here, you have to pass the Ministry of Health (MOH) Exam.
This is one way that the country maintains the standard of healthcare. This blog will take you through the entire process of the MOH exam. You’ll learn about the format, syllabus, and how to apply.
Let’s dive in.
What is the MOH Exam in the UAE?
It covers various aspects of pharmaceutical practice and patient care. It ensures that candidates are well-equipped to handle their responsibilities in a healthcare setting.
Passing the MOH Exam gives you a license to practice pharmacy in:
- Ajman
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah, and
- Umm Al Quwain
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have separate exams.
The DHA- Dubai
DOH (formerly HAAD)- Abu Dhabi
Why is the MOH Exam Important?
To ensure quality healthcare, the UAE has strict rules for healthcare professionals. The MOH Exam helps:
- Verify your qualifications
- Assess your skills and knowledge
- Ensure that patients get safe and expert care
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy- B.Pharm
- Master of Pharmacy- M.Pharm
- Doctor of Pharmacy- PharmD
- Work Experience: Two years of experience in a retail or hospital pharmacy.
- Home Country Registration: Registered in home country.
- Good Standing Certificate: Required from your previous employer or your licensing authority.
MOH Exam Procedure
Step 1: Create an Account on the MOHAP Portal
- Go to the MOHAP Licensing System.
- Register and create a new account.
Step 2: Submit Your Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
- Passport-size photo
- Passport copy
- Pharmacy degree
- Educational transcripts
- Experience certificates
- Good standing certificate
- Updated CV
All documents must be in English or legally translated.
Step 3: DataFlow Verification
- Primary Source Verification is done by DataFlow.
- DataFlow fee: AED 900–1,200.
- Fees vary with the number of documents.
- This step may take 3 to 6 weeks.
Step 4: Exam Scheduling
- Get documents verified and approved
- Receive an eligibility letter.
- Book your exam on the Prometric website.
Step 5: Take the Exam
- The exam is computer-based.
- Can be taken in the UAE or other international centers.
Step 6: Get Results and License
- If you pass, you will be issued an evaluation certificate.
- It is valid for 5 years.
- Apply for a license activation.
MOH Exam for Pharmacists in the UAE
Here’s a complete breakdown of the MOH Exam for pharmacists.
Exam Format
| Aspect | Details |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Body | Prometric |
| No. of Questions | 150 |
| Time Duration | 3 Hrs |
| Passing Marks | 60% |
MOH Exam Syllabus
- Social/Behavioral/Administrative Sciences
- Pharmaceutical Calculations & Compounding
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Clinical Sciences
- Pharmaceutical Care & Disease Management
- Basic Biomedical Sciences
- Pharmacy Law & Ethics
Exam Centers
The exam can be taken at approved Prometric testing centers. These centers are present in the UAE and internationally.
Exam Dates
MOH Exams are conducted 3 to 4 times a month. Candidates can schedule their exams up to three months in advance.
Test Results
Test results are available online, 1 to 6 weeks after the exam.
Preparation Time
MOH Exam preparation can take about 2-4 months to complete.
How to Prepare for the MOH Exam
Here are some easy preparation tips you can follow:
1. Understand the Syllabus
- Understand the exam topics clearly.
- Focus more on clinical applications and drug interactions.
2. Use MOH-Specific Study Material
- Use books and resources designed specifically for Gulf pharmacy exams.
- Join online coaching for the MOH exam preparation.
3. Take Mock Tests
- Practice as many MCQs as possible.
- Take MOH-style mock tests.
- Time yourself.
4. Revise UAE Pharmacy Laws
Questions may be asked about the UAE health regulations.
Focus on
- UAE drug schedules
- prescription rules
- controlled substances law
5. Join Online Forums or Groups
Join Telegram, Facebook, and WhatsApp groups to know:
- Study plans
- Exam experiences
- Preparation tips
What Happens If You Fail?
If you don’t pass on the first try, don’t worry. You can reapply and take the exam again. However:
- You must wait for 3 months.
- You can only attempt the exam 3 times.
- Further attempts require special approval.
After You Pass: What’s Next?
Once you pass the exam:
- You receive an evaluation certificate
- You need to secure a job.
- The employer will help you apply for license activation
Once your license is active, you are legally allowed to work in the permitted regions
You cannot use the MOH license to work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. You will need DHA or DOH exams for those regions.
Note that you also need to pass the Arabic Language exam before you can register.
Benefits of Becoming a Pharmacist in the UAE
Higher Earning Potential
- Enjoy tax-free salaries of INR 1.5 - 2 lakhs per month.
- There are also overtime pay and additional benefits.
No English Proficiency Test Required
- The UAE does not mandate an English proficiency test for pharmacists.
- This makes the process easy and less costly.
High Quality of Life
- The UAE offers an excellent quality of life.
- Access to world-class healthcare and infrastructure.
Career Opportunities
- High demand for pharmacists in the UAE.
- The job offers perks such as:
- Free accommodation
- Annual airfare
- 1 month paid holiday each year
Work-Life Balance
- Enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
- Time for personal and leisure activities.
Professional Development
- Pharmacists have access to cutting-edge medical technologies.
- Continuous professional development.
In Summary
A pharmacy career in the UAE is the dream of many pharmacists. The MOH exam provides a straightforward path to this. With proper preparation and guidance, your career in the UAE is not far.
UAE provides you with not just a globally recognized career but also the opportunity for growth. This puts the MOH exam as the first step for your future.
In this very important journey, Academically can guide you with:
- Study material
- Registration support
- AI-based Mock exams
- Personalized coaching
- Community support- topper notes, peer engagement