DHA, DOH or MOHAP: which UAE licence do you need?
If you’re a clinician considering the UAE, your first question is usually about licensing. The answer depends on where you’ll work, not where you’d like to live.
Three regulators, one country
DHA (Dubai Health Authority) licenses healthcare professionals working in Dubai. DOH (Department of Health, Abu Dhabi) covers Abu Dhabi, including Al Ain and Al Dhafra. MOHAP (Ministry of Health and Prevention) covers the Northern Emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
What the process usually involves
- Primary source verification of your qualifications, registration and experience, usually through DataFlow.
- An eligibility assessment against the regulator’s requirements for your profession and grade.
- A licensing exam for some professions and grades. Many professionals from recognised healthcare systems qualify for exemptions.
- Activation of the licence once you have a confirmed employer.
Our advice
Don’t start a licence speculatively. Find the right role first, and let the employer’s requirements guide the application. Your consultant will talk you through the steps for your role. We never charge you for our recruitment service.