The UAE is a booming hub for healthcare, offering world-class infrastructure, international hospitals, and competitive salaries for medical professionals. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, or lab technician, working in the UAE requires going through the UAE’s Medical Licensing Process to practice legally.

But the UAE’s Medical Licensing Process can be complex, with different requirements depending on the emirate and profession. In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything healthcare workers need to know from eligibility and documentation to exams and final approvals. This guide is designed to help both local and international healthcare professionals navigate the UAE’s Medical Licensing Process with ease.

🏥 Who Needs a Medical License in the UAE?

All healthcare professionals must obtain a professional license before they can practice or be employed in a healthcare facility in the UAE.

This includes:

• Physicians (GPs and Specialists)
• Nurses and Midwives
• Dentists and Orthodontists
• Pharmacists
• Allied Health Professionals (e.g., physiotherapists, radiographers, lab technicians)

The licensing authority depends on the emirate and sector you plan to work in.

Read also: How International Medical Professionals Can Work in the UAE

🏛️ Licensing Authorities in the UAE

There are four main regulatory bodies in the UAE, and each issues its own medical license:

You must apply to the correct authority based on the location of the healthcare facility you’re joining.

📋 Eligibility Criteria

While each authority has slightly different criteria, most require the following:

✅ Basic Requirements:

• Recognized medical/healthcare degree from an accredited institution
• Valid home country license
• Minimum clinical experience (varies by role and level)
• Good standing certificate from previous employers or licensing authority
• Pass the relevant licensing exam (Prometric, CBT, or oral)

🔍 Experience Requirements (Example):

Note: Experience requirements may vary slightly between DHA, DOH, and MOH.

🧪 Exam & Assessment Process

Most licensing authorities require applicants to pass an assessment, which may include a computer-based exam (CBT), oral assessment, or both.

🖥️ Common Exams:

DHA / MOH / DOH Prometric Exam (for doctors, nurses, pharmacists, etc.)

Dataflow Primary Source Verification

Oral Exams (mostly for specialists or specific roles)

These exams are managed by Prometric or Pearson VUE centers globally, and candidates can register online.

🔄 Primary Source Verification: The Dataflow Process

Before you’re licensed, your educational and professional credentials must be verified via Dataflow.

Documents Verified:

• Educational certificates
• Professional license
• Good standing certificate
• Employment history

Tips for Smooth Verification:

• Use clear and certified copies
• Submit accurate reference details
• Monitor the status and respond to queries promptly
• Allow 4–6 weeks for completion

Your license cannot be approved without a positive Dataflow report.

📄 Step-by-Step Licensing Process (DHA Example)

The process may differ slightly by authority, but here’s a general flow for DHA licensing:

1. Create an Account

Register on Sheryan (DHA’s portal) and choose your profession.

2. Self-Assessment Tool

Check your eligibility using the built-in self-assessment tool.

3. Dataflow Submission

Upload your credentials for primary source verification.

4. Exam Registration

Schedule your Prometric exam via DHA or Prometric’s official site.

5. Application Submission

After passing the exam and getting your Dataflow report, submit the full application.

6. Oral Assessment (if applicable)

Specialist roles may require an additional oral interview.

7. License Issuance

Once approved, your license will be issued, allowing you to legally work in Dubai.

💸 Cost Breakdown (Approximate)

Prices vary by authority and profession. Budget extra for retakes or missing documents.

🌍 Can I Transfer My License Between Authorities?

Yes, but with limitations.

DHA ⇆ MOH ⇆ DOH:

Some license transfers are possible between DHA, MOH, and DOH, but they require:

Approval by the receiving authority

A valid license with at least 6 months’ activity

Reassessment or updated Dataflow in some cases

Note: DHCC licenses are not directly transferable to DHA or MOH a new application is usually required.

🧳 Tips for International Applicants

If you’re applying from outside the UAE, follow these tips to ensure success:

• Start early: The licensing process can take 2–3 months
• Choose your emirate and authority before applying
• Book your Prometric exam at a center near you
• Translate documents into English or Arabic if needed
• Seek help from a recruitment agency like TRG to avoid mistakes

📍 Why Healthcare Workers Are in Demand in the UAE

Healthcare employers with top talent in Dubai is essential to meeting the region’s growing medical demands, ensuring quality care through skilled professionals and innovative recruitment solutions. The UAE is rapidly expanding its healthcare infrastructure with major projects like:

• Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
• Dubai Health Park
• SEHA & Pure Health hospitals
• Specialty clinics for oncology, fertility, rehab, and wellness

There is constant demand for:

• General Practitioners & Family Medicine Doctors
• Nurses & Midwives
• Radiographers & Lab Technicians
• Pharmacists
• Physiotherapists & Occupational Therapists

Read also: 10 Reasons to Choose Outsourcing for Healthcare Recruitment in the UAE

💼 How TRG Recruitment Can Help

At TRG Recruitment, we specialize in helping healthcare professionals navigate the UAE licensing process and secure the best job offers in top-tier hospitals and clinics.

Our services include:

✅ License consultation for DHA, DOH, MOH, and DHCC
✅ Dataflow support and document verification
✅ Prometric exam preparation guidance
✅ Job matching across the UAE
✅ Assistance with relocation and onboarding

Whether you’re already in the UAE or applying from abroad, we simplify the licensing journey and connect you with the right employer.

Final Thoughts

The UAE offers a world of opportunity for qualified healthcare professionals but only if you complete the proper licensing process. By understanding the steps, preparing your documents, and aligning with the correct authority, you can begin a rewarding medical career in one of the region’s most dynamic healthcare systems.

Let TRG Recruitment guide you from application to employment  and help you take the next big step in your healthcare journey.

Ready to Begin Your Licensing Process?
📞 Call at +971 50170450
🌐 Visit https://trgrecruitment.com
📩 Get expert help with medical licensing and healthcare job placement in the UAE.