No More Prometric Exam Work as Doctor in Qatar If You Have Cleared MRCGP Part 1

No More Prometric Exam! Work as a Doctor in Qatar Directly If You Have Cleared MRCGP Part 1

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Latest DHP Announcement: MRCGP Part 1 Exemption

According to the latest update:

All healthcare practitioners are required to successfully pass the Prometric licensing examination. DHP hereby announces the list of qualifying exams that can exempt applicants from the State of Qatar’s qualifying exam (Prometric), including MRCGP (Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners) Part 1 Applied Knowledge Test (AKT).

This means that MRCGP Part 1 (AKT) is now officially recognised as a qualifying exam equivalent, removing the need for an additional Prometric exam. Simply put, Qatar has a huge demand for doctors and other healthcare professionals. The system knows the dedication with which MRCGP applicants prepare and clear the exam and the prized skills they possess.

What is MRCGP Part 1 (AKT)?

A Globally Recognised Benchmark for GPs

The MRCGP Part 1 Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) is conducted by the Royal College of General Practitioners (UK). It evaluates a doctor’s applied clinical knowledge in:

General practice and primary care
Evidence-based medicine
Clinical decision-making
UK and international healthcare standards

Its inclusion in the DHP exemption list highlights Qatar’s confidence in the rigour and global credibility of the MRCGP qualification.

Who can Benefit from this Exemption?

Eligible Doctors

You need not appear for the Qatar Prometric Exam if you:

Are a medical doctor (General Practitioner)
Have successfully cleared MRCGP Part 1 (AKT)
Meet DHP’s other licensing requirements, such as:
- Experience criteria
- DataFlow verification
- Credential and scope of practice alignment

Important Note

The exemption applies only to the Prometric exam requirement. Doctors must still complete all other licensing and documentation steps mandated by DHP.

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Why this Update is Beneficial for Doctors

Here are some of the benefits of this exemption update for doctors, declared by the council:

1. Faster Licensing Process

The exemption from the Prometric exam really makes it easier for doctors to get their medical license in Qatar.

2. Reduced Exam Burden

Preparing for Prometric alongside international exams is demanding. This update removes one major hurdle.

3. Savings

Doctors save on Prometric exam fees, preparation materials, and retake costs.

4. Enhanced Global Mobility

MRCGP holders now have a smoother pathway to practice in Qatar, making it an attractive destination for UK-trained and international GPs.

Career Opportunities for MRCGP Doctors in Qatar

Qatar’s healthcare sector continues to expand, with increasing demand for:

Family medicine specialists
Primary care physicians
Community-based general practitioners

Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare groups actively recruit MRCGP-qualified doctors due to their strong primary care expertise.

Average Salary for Doctors in Qatar: What Can You Expect?

Salaries vary based on qualification, experience, employer, and scope of practice. However, MRCGP-qualified doctors are among the most sought-after and well-compensated professionals in the country.

General Practitioner (MRCGP-qualified): QAR 25,000 to QAR 40,000 per month (approximately ₹6.2 lakh to ₹9.9 lakh per month)
Senior GP / Family Medicine Doctor: QAR 35,000 to QAR 50,000 per month (approximately ₹8.7 lakh to ₹12.4 lakh per month)
Consultant Family Physician (with higher experience): QAR 45,000 to QAR 60,000+ per month (approximately ₹11.1 lakh to ₹14.9 lakh+ per month)

With zero personal income tax, doctors in Qatar are able to save significantly more compared to many Western countries.

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Why Work as a Doctor in Qatar?

Qatar has rapidly emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for international doctors, particularly General Practitioners with globally recognised qualifications like MRCGP.

1. Tax-Free Income and High Savings

Doctors in Qatar enjoy 100% tax-free salaries, allowing for faster financial growth, debt repayment, and long-term savings.

2. Global Recognition of UK Qualifications

With DHP officially recognising MRCGP Part 1 for Prometric exemption, Qatar clearly demonstrates its trust in UK and international medical standards.

3. Excellent Work-Life Balance

Compared to many healthcare systems worldwide, Qatar offers:

Structured working hours
Lower patient overload in many facilities
Strong clinical governance systems

This allows doctors to maintain a healthier work-life balance.

4. World-Class Healthcare Infrastructure

Qatar has invested heavily in healthcare, with:

Modern hospitals and clinics
Advanced diagnostic facilities
International healthcare accreditation standards

Doctors work in a professionally rewarding and technologically advanced environment.

5. Safe, Family-Friendly Lifestyle

Qatar consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, making it ideal for doctors relocating with families. Benefits include:

High-quality international schools
Excellent living standards
Strong expat community

6. Strategic Career Growth

Working in Qatar enhances a doctor’s international profile, opening doors to future opportunities across the Gulf, the UK, Australia, and other global healthcare systems.

How to Apply for a Qatar Medical License With MRCGP Part 1: Step-by-Step Overview

Let’s take a look at how to obtain a Qatar medical license after you have completed Part 1 of MRCGP:

Clear MRCGP Part 1 (AKT)
Create a DHP account
Submit credentials for DataFlow verification
Apply for licensure under GP category
Claim Prometric exemption using MRCGP Part 1
Complete employer and facility approvals

If you are planning your next move as a doctor, clearing MRCGP Part 1 is now a strategic gateway to a Prometric-free license, strong earnings, and a globally respected medical career in Qatar. With the right preparation and guidance, this pathway can accelerate both your professional growth and financial security. Need further assistance?

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To Conclude with…

The latest update from the Department of Healthcare Professions (DHP), Qatar, has fundamentally reshaped the licensing pathway for General Practitioners. By recognising MRCGP Part 1 (AKT) as a qualifying exam that exempts doctors from the Prometric licensing exam, Qatar has opened a faster, simpler, and more globally aligned route to medical practice. For doctors, this is not just a regulatory change, but a career-defining opportunity. With tax-free monthly salaries, comprehensive employment benefits, and a modern healthcare ecosystem, Qatar offers one of the most financially and professionally rewarding environments for General Practitioners worldwide.

Disclaimer: Licensing policies are subject to change. Always refer to official DHP guidelines or consult a licensing expert before applying.

FAQs

Q. Is the Prometric exam mandatory for doctors in Qatar?

A. Yes, Prometric is mandatory for most doctors. However, MRCGP Part 1 (AKT) is now officially exempted by DHP.

Q. Does clearing MRCGP Part 1 fully waive the Qatar licensing exam?

A. Yes, it waives the Prometric qualifying exam, but all other licensing requirements must still be fulfilled.

Q. Is MRCGP Part 2 or Part 3 required for Prometric exemption?

A. No. As per the latest DHP update, MRCGP Part 1 (AKT) alone qualifies for exemption.

Q. Does this exemption apply to specialists other than GPs?

A. No. This exemption is specifically applicable to General Practitioners holding MRCGP Part 1.

Q. Is the exemption officially announced by DHP Qatar?

A. Yes. The exemption is part of the official DHP list of qualifying exams.

Q. Can international doctors apply for this exemption?

A. Yes. The exemption applies to all eligible international doctors who have cleared MRCGP Part 1 and meet DHP criteria.

Q. Does this guarantee a job in Qatar?

A. No. The exemption simplifies licensing, not employment. Job offers depend on employers, vacancies, and experience.

Q. What is the salary of an MRCGP doctor in Qatar?

A. MRCGP-qualified General Practitioners typically earn between QAR 25,000 and QAR 40,000 per month, depending on experience, employer, and clinical responsibilities.

Q. Are doctor salaries in Qatar tax-free?

A. Yes. There is no personal income tax in Qatar, allowing doctors to take home their full salary and save significantly more.

Q. Do senior or experienced GPs earn more in Qatar?

A. Yes. Senior GPs and family medicine doctors with higher experience can earn QAR 45,000 to 60,000+ per month, especially in well-established healthcare facilities.

Q. Are accommodation and other benefits included in a doctor’s salary package?

A. In many cases, yes. Employers often provide housing allowance or accommodation, annual flight tickets, health insurance, paid leave, and end-of-service benefits.

Q. Is the cost of living in Qatar manageable for doctors?

A. Yes. While lifestyle choices vary, the tax-free salary and employer benefits allow most doctors to maintain a high standard of living while still saving a substantial portion of their income.

Q. How does a doctor’s salary in Qatar compare to the UK?

A. Although UK doctors may earn comparable gross salaries, Qatar’s tax-free income and lower personal expenses often result in higher net savings for doctors working in Qatar.

Q. Does clearing MRCGP Part 1 directly impact salary levels?

A. Clearing MRCGP Part 1 enhances employability and can lead to better salary offers, faster hiring, and exemption from the Prometric exam, making candidates more attractive to employers.