If you're a healthcare professional aiming to work in Dubai, obtaining a license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is a mandatory step. The DHA license exam is designed to evaluate the qualifications, clinical skills, and professional knowledge of healthcare workers to ensure they meet the standards required to practice safely and effectively in the UAE.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the DHA license exam, including eligibility criteria, exam structure, how to apply, preparation tips, and more.

What is the DHA License Exam?

The DHA license exam is a standardized test administered by the Dubai Health Authority for healthcare professionals seeking licensure to work in Dubai’s medical sector. The exam ensures that only qualified, competent professionals are allowed to serve patients in both public and private healthcare facilities.

The license is required for:

1. Doctors (General Practitioners and Specialists)
   
   

2. Dentists
   
   

3. Nurses and Midwives
   
   

4. Pharmacists
   
   

5. Allied Health Professionals (e.g., Physiotherapists, Lab Technicians, Radiographers)
   
   

Who is Eligible for the DHA Exam?

To apply for the DHA license exam, you must meet the following basic requirements:

1. Educational Qualification: Degree or diploma in your healthcare field from a recognized institution
   
   

2. Valid Professional License: From your home country or most recent country of practice
   
   

3. Work Experience:
   
   

   1. Doctors/Specialists: Minimum 2–3 years post-internship experience
      
      

   2. Nurses & Allied Health: Typically 2 years of clinical experience
      
      

4. Good Standing Certificate: From your licensing authority
   
   

5. Primary Source Verification: Via DataFlow, which validates your credentials
   
   

How to Apply for the DHA License Exam

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply:

1. Create a Sheryan Account

Register on the official DHA portal at https://www.dha.gov.ae

2. Submit Documents for DataFlow Verification

Upload your degree, license, work experience certificates, and passport. DataFlow will verify your credentials.

3. Schedule the Exam

Once your documents are verified, schedule the exam through Prometric, the authorized testing provider for DHA.

4. Pay the Exam Fee

The DHA exam fee typically ranges between AED 260 – AED 360 depending on your profession and exam type.

5. Take the Exam

Attend the computer-based exam at a Prometric center near you or in your home country (if available).

DHA License Exam Format

1. Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
   
   

2. Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
   
   

3. Questions: 70 to 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
   
   

4. Passing Score: Typically 60–70% (varies by profession)
   
   

5. Content: Based on DHA-approved syllabus for your specific healthcare category
   
   

6. Language: English
   
   

Some specialties may include clinical scenario-based questions or an oral assessment.

How to Prepare for the DHA License Exam

Here are some smart strategies for effective preparation:

✅ Understand the Syllabus

Download the official syllabus or blueprint from the DHA website. Focus on core topics relevant to your field.

✅ Use Trusted Resources

1. DHA/Prometric MCQ books
   
   

2. Online question banks and apps
   
   

3. Recorded lectures or DHA coaching classes
   
   

✅ Take Mock Exams

Practice full-length mock tests to build speed and accuracy.

✅ Join a DHA Coaching Program (optional)

If you prefer structured learning, consider enrolling in a DHA exam coaching course (online or offline).

What Happens After You Pass?

Once you pass the DHA license exam, you’ll be listed as an "Eligible Professional" in the DHA system. You can then:

1. Apply for jobs at hospitals, clinics, and medical centers in Dubai
   
   

2. Once hired, your employer will help activate your DHA license
   
   

3. You’re now ready to legally practice healthcare in Dubai!
   
   

Validity and Renewal

1. The DHA license is usually valid for 1 to 2 years.
   
   

2. It must be renewed before expiration, and continuous practice is required to maintain eligibility.
   
   

Final Thoughts

The DHA license exam is a crucial milestone for any healthcare professional seeking a rewarding career in Dubai’s growing medical sector. With proper documentation, exam preparation, and guidance, you can clear the exam and begin your journey toward a promising international healthcare career.

Whether you're a nurse from India, a doctor from Egypt, or a pharmacist from the Philippines, Dubai offers vast career opportunities—and it all begins with passing the DHA exam.