Imagine being a highly valued dentist. Work in modern, well-equipped clinics. Treat patients from around the world. Earn a salary that lets you save and live comfortably. Sounds like a dream? In Dubai, it’s reality.
For dentists around the world, especially those from India, Dubai is a career game-changer. But here’s the catch: to unlock this opportunity, you need to pass the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Exam.
In this blog, we’ll explore why Dubai is the best country for dentists in 2026. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your dental career to the next level, this blog is your roadmap to making it happen.
High Salaries Make Dubai Really Attractive
Let’s talk numbers. Because who doesn’t love a good salary?
Dentists in Dubai enjoy tax-free pay, which means your earnings go further. Here’s the breakdown:
| Experience Level | Average Salary (AED/Year) | Approx. in INR |
| Entry-Level Dentist | 365,721 | ₹83 lakh |
| Mid-Level Dentist | 532,324 | ₹1.2 crore |
| Experienced/Specialist | 651,208+ | ₹1.47 crore+ |
With tax-free income, Dubai gives you the chance to save, invest, and live comfortably, one of the main reasons dentists move here.
Dentists Are in High Demand
Dubai’s dental sector is growing fast, and there’s a big demand for qualified dentists.
Specialties in demand include:
- General Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
- Prosthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
Pass the DHA Exam to Practice in Dubai
To work as a dentist in Dubai, you must pass the DHA Exam. It’s designed to make sure dentists meet the city’s high healthcare standards.
Who Can Take the Exam?
- BDS or equivalent degree recognized by DHA
- Completed one-year internship
- Minimum two years of clinical experience
Exam Format and Syllabus
| Component | Details |
| Questions | 150 multiple-choice |
| Duration | 170 minutes |
| Passing Marks | 60% |
Subjects Covered:
- Endodontics – 23%
- Oral Medicine/Oral Surgery – 41%
- Restorative Dentistry – 36%
- Periodontics – 20%
- Orthodontics/Pediatric Dentistry – 30%
Some candidates may also take a DHA Oral Assessment, with 5 scenario-based questions lasting 15–20 minutes. Passing this is required to apply for a license.
Do you wish to take the DHA exam in 2026? If yes, you can even pass the exam on the first attempt. Wondering how?You can do it by enrolling in Academically's DHA Preparation course for dentists. You will get like and recorded lectures, study materials, AI-based mock tests, personalised guidance and much more.
How to Apply for the DHA Exam
Here’s the process in simple steps:
1. Create an Account –
2. Submit Documents – Upload your degree, internship certificate, experience letters, transcripts, and other required documents.
3. Pay Fees –
| Fee Type | Amount (AED) | Approx. Amount (INR) |
| Document Verification | 992 | ₹22,50,0 (approx) |
| Exam Fee | 1080 | ₹24,50,0 (approx) |
| Total | 2020 | ₹47,00,0 (approx) |
4. Schedule the Exam – Choose a date at Prometric centres.
5. Prepare and Attempt the Exam – Focus on the syllabus and practice mock tests.
6. Oral Assessment (if required) – Clear 5 case scenarios in 15–20 minutes.
7. Get Your Eligibility Letter – Once you pass, you can apply for your DHA license and start working.
Work in Modern Clinics with Cutting-Edge Technology
Dubai’s dental clinics are state-of-the-art, with:
- Digital imaging systems
- Laser dentistry equipment
- 3D printing for prosthetics
- CAD/CAM technology
With the ongoing expansion of Dubai Healthcare City, dentists get the chance to work on modern cases and advanced treatments, boosting both skills and experience.
Career Growth and Professional Development
Dubai isn’t just about high salaries, it’s about growing your career.
The dental sector is expanding, thanks to:
- More awareness about oral health
- Increased spending on dental care
- Growth in medical tourism
- A larger aging population
Events like AEEDC let dentists:
- Network with global professionals
- Learn about new dental technologies
- Get CPD points
- Build international credibility
This means you can start as a junior dentist and move up to senior roles or even run your own clinic.
Lifestyle Benefits in Dubai
Dubai is safe, modern, and multicultural:
- Tax-Free Income – Save more
- High Standard of Living – Modern transport, housing, healthcare
- Work-Life Balance – Plenty of recreational and family options
- International Community – Connect with people from around the world
Cost of Living vs. Salary
Here’s how typical expenses compare to your earning potential in Dubai:
| Expense | Monthly AED | Monthly INR (approx) |
| Rent (1BHK) | 5,500 | ₹1.21 lakh |
| Food & Groceries | 2,000 | ₹44,000 |
| Transport | 800 | ₹17,600 |
| Utilities | 600 | ₹13,200 |
| Total | 8,900 | ₹1.95 lakh |
Even with these costs, dentists enjoy ample savings thanks to tax-free salaries.
Success Story of Dr. Karthikeyan: From Chennai to a Licensed Dentist in Dubai
After 20+ years of dentistry in Chennai, Dr. V.K. Karthikeyan wanted more. Encouraged by his wife, he chose Dubai for its clear path for international dentists.
“Every step, every practice session, and expert guidance from Academicallly Global made clearing the DHA exam possible.” — Dr. V.K. Karthikeyan
Today, he’s a licensed dentist in Dubai, bringing experience, confidence, and a patient-first approach. His story proves that with the right preparation and support, achieving your dental career abroad is possible.
Read the detailed success story of Dr. Karthikeyan here. Now it’s your turn, take the first step toward becoming a licensed dentist!
Why Dubai Stands Out for Dentists in 2026
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| High Salaries | AED 365,000–650,000+, tax-free |
| Job Opportunities | High demand for all dental specialties |
| Advanced Infrastructure | Modern clinics and technology |
| Career Growth | Senior roles, specialization, private practice |
| Professional Development | CPD, networking, conferences |
| Lifestyle Benefits | Safe, cosmopolitan, family-friendly |
| Mandatory Licensing | DHA Exam ensures credibility and legal practice |
Also Read: Top 6 Countries with the Highest Salary for Dentists
Final Thoughts
You can take your dental career to the next level in Dubai. The pay is good, you get work in modern clinics, have scope for career growth, and a enjoy vibrant lifestyle. It's no wonder so many dentists are moving here.
All you need to do is pass the DHA Exam first. But it needs proper preparation, don’t forget that.
If you want to move beyond limited local opportunities and earn a good salary, start preparing for the DHA Exam today. Your future in Dubai’s dental world is waiting and it’s brighter than ever.
For any questions or guidance regarding dental career, reach out to the experts at Academically. They will help you out from the start till the get.