DHA License Dubai: The Complete Guide for International Doctors (2026)

Getting a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) license is the essential first step for any international physician who wants to practice medicine in Dubai. MediFlow has helped hundreds of doctors from Europe, Asia, and beyond navigate this process — and this guide covers everything you need to know.

What Is the DHA License?

The DHA license is issued by the Dubai Health Authority and is required to legally practice medicine in Dubai (Emirate of Dubai only). It is separate from the DOH license (Abu Dhabi) and MOHAP license (Northern Emirates and Federal).

Every doctor, specialist, nurse, dentist, or allied health professional working in a Dubai facility must hold a valid DHA license before starting clinical work.

Who Needs a DHA License?

• Physicians and specialists in all clinical fields
• General Practitioners (GPs) working in Dubai clinics or hospitals
• Dentists and dental specialists
• Nurses and allied health professionals
• Pharmacists employed in Dubai

DHA License Requirements: What You Need

Educational Documents

• Primary medical degree (MBBS, MD, or equivalent) — DataFlow verified
• Postgraduate qualification / specialty degree (if applicable)
• Transcript of records

Experience Documents

• Minimum 2 years of post-graduation clinical experience
• Employment certificates with exact dates
• Good Standing Certificate from previous licensing authority

Personal Documents

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Recent passport photo
• Emirates ID (if already in UAE)

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your DHA License

Step 1: DataFlow Primary Source Verification

All documents must be verified through DataFlow Group — DHA’s official verification partner. This process takes 4–12 weeks depending on your country of graduation and employer responsiveness. MediFlow coordinates the entire DataFlow process on your behalf.

Step 2: Create a Sheryan Account

All DHA license applications are submitted through the Sheryan portal (the DHA’s online licensing platform). You’ll upload your documents, pay fees, and track your application here.

Step 3: Prometric Exam (if required)

Most specialties require a Prometric MCQ exam. Some senior specialists or those with equivalent credentials may be eligible for an exemption. MediFlow assesses your eligibility and, if required, provides targeted exam preparation resources.

Step 4: License Issuance

After successful verification, exam passing (if required), and DHA approval, your license is issued — typically within 2–4 weeks of final submission.

How Long Does the DHA License Take?

The full process typically takes 8–16 weeks from initial application to license issuance:

• DataFlow verification: 4–10 weeks
• Sheryan application review: 2–4 weeks
• Prometric exam scheduling: 1–3 weeks (if required)

MediFlow clients typically receive their DHA license 30–40% faster than the industry average because we pre-screen all documents for completeness before submission.

DHA License Costs (2026)

• DataFlow verification: AED 1,500–2,500 (varies by specialty)
• DHA registration fee: AED 300–500
• Prometric exam: AED 800–1,200 (if required)
• License issuance: AED 1,000–3,000 (specialty-dependent)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can European doctors get a DHA license?

Yes. Doctors trained in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the UK, France, and all EU countries regularly obtain DHA licenses. EU medical degrees are well-recognized. The process is the same: DataFlow verification + Sheryan application + Prometric exam (specialty-dependent).

Is the Prometric exam mandatory for all doctors?

Not always. Senior specialists with extensive experience and publications may qualify for an exemption assessment. MediFlow evaluates your profile to determine your eligibility before you invest in exam preparation.

Can I transfer my DHA license to DOH (Abu Dhabi)?

Yes — the UAE operates an Emiratization-friendly system where DHA-licensed doctors can apply for DOH or MOHAP licenses without repeating DataFlow. MediFlow handles these cross-emirate transfers efficiently.

What is the difference between DHA, DOH, and MOHAP?

DHA licenses cover Dubai, DOH covers Abu Dhabi, and MOHAP licenses cover the remaining five Northern Emirates plus federal facilities. If you’re working in multiple emirates, you may need multiple licenses — or a DOH license, which has broader reach.

What salary can I expect with a DHA license in Dubai?

Salaries depend on specialty and experience. General practitioners: AED 15,000–30,000/month. Specialists (e.g., cardiologists, orthopedic surgeons): AED 35,000–80,000/month. All salaries in Dubai are tax-free. See current Dubai doctor salaries →

Why Choose MediFlow for Your DHA License?

• 95%+ first-attempt success rate on DHA applications
• End-to-end service: DataFlow → Sheryan → Prometric → Job placement
• Specialist advisors who have processed 500+ DHA applications
• Multilingual support: English, German, Arabic, and more
• Direct employer connections: We place you in top Dubai hospitals and clinics