What is the DHA Exam?
The DHA Exam is a mandatory licensing test for healthcare professionals who wish to work in Dubai’s healthcare sector. The exam is conducted by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) to ensure medical practitioners meet the required knowledge, skills, and competencies.
Once you pass the exam, you receive a DHA Professional License, which allows you to work in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities in Dubai.
Who Needs to Take the DHA Exam?
Healthcare professionals applying for jobs in Dubai must pass the DHA Exam. This includes:
Doctors (General Practitioners, Specialists, Consultants) Dentists Nurses & Midwives Pharmacists Physiotherapists Medical Laboratory Technicians Radiographers Optometrists Allied Health Professionals (including Occupational Therapists, Dietitians, and Speech Therapists) Psychologists & Mental Health Professionals
If you plan to work in Abu Dhabi or the Northern Emirates, you may need to take the HAAD/DOH or MOHAP exam instead.
DHA Licensing Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Check Eligibility & Requirements
Before applying for the exam, candidates must check the eligibility criteria based on education, work experience, and specialization.
Doctors – MBBS + internship + 2+ years of experience Nurses – B.Sc. Nursing + minimum 2 years of experience Pharmacists – B.Pharm / M.Pharm + 2 years of experience Psychologists – Master’s degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology + 2 years of experience Allied Health Professionals – Qualification & experience as per DHA guidelines
Some candidates from non-Western countries may need additional verification before proceeding to the next step.
DataFlow Verification – Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Before taking the DHA Exam, candidates must complete the DataFlow Verification Process.
Documents Required for DHA DataFlow Verification:
Passport Copy Degree Certificate (MBBS, MSc Psychology, BSc Nursing, B.Pharm, etc.) Experience Certificate Good Standing Certificate (from medical council or psychological association in your home country) Proof of English Proficiency (if required)
DataFlow ensures that all submitted documents are genuine and valid. If a document is flagged as fraudulent or unverifiable, your application may be rejected.
Apply for the DHA Exam
After successful DataFlow Verification, candidates can register for the DHA Licensing Exam through the official DHA website.
Exam Fees: Varies based on the profession and type of exam. Exam Centers: The DHA Exam is conducted worldwide through Prometric Test Centers. Exam Format: Computer-Based Test (CBT), Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs).
Take the DHA Exam
Exam Format & Structure:
| Healthcare Profession | Exam Pattern |
|---|---|
| Doctors (GPs, Specialists, Consultants) | MCQ-based test + Oral Interview for specialists |
| Nurses & Midwives | MCQ-based test |
| Pharmacists | MCQ-based test |
| Allied Health Professionals | MCQ-based test (varies by profession) |
| Psychologists | MCQ-based test + Structured Clinical Interview (if required) |
Passing Score: Typically 60-70%, depending on the healthcare profession.
Exam Retake Policy: Candidates who fail the first attempt can reapply after 3 months.
Get Your DHA License
After passing the DHA Exam, candidates can apply for a DHA Professional License. The license allows them to legally work in Dubai’s healthcare sector. Once a job offer is received, the employer sponsors the candidate’s work visa.
If you don’t secure a job within 1 year, the DHA exam result expires, and you may need to retake the exam.
DHA Exam Syllabus & Subjects
Doctors (General Practitioners & Specialists)
Internal Medicine Surgery Pediatrics Obstetrics & Gynecology Emergency Medicine Ethics & Professional Conduct
Nurses & Midwives
Patient Care & Management Medical-Surgical Nursing Pharmacology & Medication Administration Infection Control Nursing Ethics
Pharmacists
Pharmacology & Drug Interactions Clinical Pharmacy Dosage Calculations Regulatory Guidelines in UAE Drug Safety & Storage
Physiotherapists
Musculoskeletal & Neurological Conditions Rehabilitation & Treatment Methods Patient Safety & Ethics
Psychologists
Psychological Assessment & Diagnosis Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Psychopathology & Mental Disorders Ethics in Psychology & Patient Confidentiality Crisis Intervention & Trauma Counseling
Each profession has its own DHA syllabus, so candidates must review the latest guidelines on the official DHA website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Long is the DHA License Valid?
DHA License is valid for 1 year. It must be renewed annually.
How Many Times Can I Retake the DHA Exam?
Candidates can retake the DHA Exam up to 3 times if they fail.
What is the Processing Time for the DHA License?
The complete licensing process (including DataFlow verification, exam, and licensing) may take 2 to 6 months.
Is an English Proficiency Test Required for the DHA Exam?
English proficiency (OET/IELTS) may be required for some professionals, especially nurses, doctors, and psychologists.
Can I Apply for the DHA License Without a Job Offer?
Yes, you can apply and clear the DHA exam first. However, you need a job offer and work visa to activate the license.
Why Work in Dubai as a Healthcare Professional?
Tax-Free Salary – Higher earnings compared to other countries. High Demand – Dubai’s growing healthcare sector needs skilled professionals. Luxury Lifestyle – World-class facilities and a high standard of living. Multicultural Environment – Work with professionals from different countries.
Becoming a licensed healthcare professional in Dubai is a significant step towards a rewarding career in the UAE’s healthcare sector. However, the journey begins with obtaining a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license, which involves examinations, verification, and registration fees.
Many aspiring professionals often find the fee structure confusing, especially with different components involved. This guide will help you understand the breakdown of DHA exam fees, ensuring you’re financially prepared for your licensing journey.
The DHA exam is a mandatory requirement for healthcare professionals who wish to practice in Dubai. It ensures that candidates meet the standards set by the Dubai Health Authority and possess the necessary skills to provide high-quality healthcare services.
Before applying for the DHA exam, candidates must complete a self-assessment on the DHA Sheryan Portal. This step determines whether they meet the eligibility criteria.
Steps for Self-Assessment:
If the system confirms your eligibility, you can proceed to the next step. Otherwise, you may need to request a manual review.
If a candidate is not eligible after self-assessment, they can request a manual review by submitting an online application along with necessary documents.
The Primary Source Verification (PSV) process verifies the authenticity of a candidate’s educational qualifications, experience certificates, and professional licenses. This step is conducted through DataFlow, an independent verification agency.
| Profession | PSV Fee |
|---|---|
| Doctors | AED 1,235 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals | AED 935 |
PSV is mandatory for all healthcare professionals and must be completed before proceeding with the DHA exam.
After PSV approval, candidates must schedule their DHA exam, which can be either:
Exam Fees:
Once the exam is successfully passed, candidates need to register on the DHA Sheryan portal to proceed with their licensing application.
Certain healthcare professions require an oral assessment in addition to the written DHA exam. Candidates must schedule an appointment and pay the applicable fee.
| Assessment Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Normal Oral Assessment | AED 250 |
| Urgent Oral Assessment | AED 2,000 |
After successfully passing all assessments, candidates must activate their DHA professional license. The fee varies depending on the license type.
The DHA license must be renewed periodically to continue practicing legally in Dubai. Renewal fees depend on the license type.
| License Type | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|
| Physicians/Dentists (Full-Time) | AED 3,000 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals (Full-Time) | AED 1,000 |
| Physicians/Dentists (Part-Time) | AED 4,000 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals (Part-Time) | AED 4,000 |
| Physicians/Dentists (Trainee) | AED 3,000 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals (Trainee) | AED 1,000 |
If candidates require an urgent oral assessment, they can opt for a fast-track evaluation process at a higher fee.
| Profession | Urgent Oral Assessment Fee |
|---|---|
| Physicians/Dentists | AED 2,000 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals | AED 2,000 |
Important:
| Service | Fee (AED) | Approximate Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source Verification (PSV) | ||
| Physicians/Dentists | 1,235 | ₹27,858 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals | 935 | ₹21,195 |
| DHA Assessment (Oral) | ||
| Physicians/Dentists | 520 | ₹11,695 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals | 270 | ₹6,131 |
| Prometric DHA Exam Fees | ||
| Physicians | 772 | ₹17,457 |
| Dentists | 772 | ₹17,457 |
| Nurses & Allied Health Professionals | 625 | ₹14,132 |
| DHA License Activation Fees | ||
| For Nurses, Allied Health, TCAM | ||
| Full-time License | 1,000 | ₹30,531 |
| Part-time License | 4,000 | ₹1,22,124 |
| Trainee License | 1,000 | ₹30,531 |
| Convert to Full-time License | 200 | ₹6,106 |
| For Physicians and Dentists | ||
| Full-time License | 3,000 | ₹91,592 |
| Part-time License | 4,000 | ₹1,22,124 |
| Trainee License | 3,000 | ₹91,592 |
| Convert to Full-time License | 200 | ₹6,106 |
| Additional Fees | ||
| Extra Document Verification | 300 | ₹6,789 |
The approximate conversion rate used for these calculations is: 1 AED ≈ 22.56 INR.
THE INR RATES WILL VARY BASED ON CONVERSION RATES.
DHA Licensing is essential for healthcare professionals in Dubai. The fee structure includes various components like PSV, exam fees, registration fees, and activation charges. On-time payments are crucial to avoid delays in the licensing process. Candidates should plan their budget accordingly to cover all required fees.
The DHA exam and licensing process is an investment in your career as a healthcare professional in Dubai. While the fee structure may seem complex, understanding each step ensures a smooth registration process.
By staying informed about costs, timelines, and payment methods, you can confidently move forward in securing your DHA license and advancing your healthcare career in the UAE.
Documents Required for the DHA Exam:
| Document Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid ID Proof | Passport or national ID |
| Educational Certificates | Degrees, diplomas, and transcripts |
| Experience Certificates | Letters from previous employers detailing work experience |
| Passport-sized Photographs | Two recent photos meeting DHA specifications |
| Good Standing Certificate | Certificate from the current medical council or licensing body |
Having these documents prepared in advance will help ensure a smooth application process for your DHA exam. Let me know if you need any additional details!
Visit the DHA Sheryan Portal.
Create a new account by providing your email address and setting a password.
Verify your email address through the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
Log in to your Sheryan account.
Complete your profile by entering your personal information, including name, nationality, and contact details.
Upload a recent passport-sized photograph.
Ensure you have the following documents:
Valid ID Proof (Passport or national ID).
Educational Certificates (Degrees, diplomas, transcripts).
Experience Certificates (Letters from previous employers detailing work experience).
Good Standing Certificate from the relevant licensing body.
Proof of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities (if applicable).
All documents must be scanned clearly and uploaded in PDF or JPEG format.
Once documents are uploaded, they will undergo Primary Source Verification (PSV) by the Dataflow Group.
Pay the required PSV fee through the Sheryan portal.
The PSV process may take several weeks, and you will be notified once completed.
After PSV completion, apply for the DHA exam.
Select your profession and category (e.g., nurse, dentist, physician).
Choose your preferred exam date and location.
Pay the examination fee through the Sheryan portal.
After confirmation, an email with scheduling instructions will be sent.
Choose a convenient date and time from the available slots.
Confirm your exam schedule and receive the exam confirmation details.
Prepare using the official syllabus and study materials.
On exam day, bring the required documents:
Exam confirmation letter
Valid ID
Other specified materials
Arrive at the exam center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time.
After the exam, results will be posted on the Sheryan portal.
If you pass, follow the licensing process instructions.
Complete additional steps such as paying the licensing fee and submitting remaining documents.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Fundamentals of Nursing | Patient care, nursing theories, healthcare principles |
| Pediatric Nursing | Care of infants, children, adolescents; pediatric diseases |
| Adult Nursing | Health needs of adults; chronic and acute conditions |
| Maternal Nursing | Prenatal, perinatal, postnatal care; obstetric emergencies |
| Unit Management & Leadership | Managing nursing units; leadership skills |
| Topic | Details |
| Anesthesia & Pain Management | Pain management techniques; administering anesthesia |
| Trauma | Treatment of dental injuries; emergency care |
| Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) | TMJ disorders; treatments |
| Dentoalveolar Surgery | Alveolar bone procedures; extractions |
| Implant Surgery | Planning, placing, managing implants |
| Reconstruction | Oral and maxillofacial reconstruction |
| Cosmetic Deformities & Orthognathic Surgery | Aesthetic concerns; corrective jaw surgery |
| Patient Education | Oral health education; preventive measures |
| Ethics | Ethical considerations in practice |
| Topic | Details |
| Chronic Diseases | Managing diabetes, hypertension, heart disease |
| Acute & Common Medical Problems | Diagnosis and treatment of common issues |
| Common Pediatric Problems | Pediatric conditions; emergency care |
| Women’s Health | Gynecological health; prenatal and postnatal care |
| Emergency Problems | Medical emergencies; trauma care |
| Common Surgical Problems | Preoperative and postoperative care |
| Common Psychiatric Problems | Mental health conditions; anxiety, depression |
| Common Eye & ENT Problems | Eye, ear, nose, and throat conditions |
| Common Dermatology Problems | Skin conditions; dermatological procedures |
| Basic Epidemiology & EBM Concepts | Disease patterns; evidence-based medicine |
| Family Medicine Concepts | Comprehensive care; preventive care |
| Screening & Periodic Health Examination | Routine health screenings; assessments |
Unit Management and Leadership
Fundamentals
Maternal Nursing
Child Nursing
Adult Nursing
If you are a nurse looking to work in Dubai, you will need to take the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Exam. This exam is designed to test your knowledge of the Dubai healthcare system and your ability to provide quality patient care.
The DHA Nursing Exam Questions (Prometric Exam) cover a wide range of topics, including medical conditions, treatments, and medications. Unlike simple multiple-choice exams, you must demonstrate a deeper understanding through a structured question format.
Offered in English and Arabic.
If you are not a native speaker of either language, you must take the English version of the exam.
Conducted four times a week.
Register online through DHA Licensing Services for Nurses.
Once registered, you will receive a login ID and password to access DHAExam.com for practice tests.
The DHA Exam consists of 150 questions, divided into four sections:
Medical Conditions – Covers common medical conditions nurses may encounter.
Treatments – Tests knowledge of various treatments for medical conditions.
Medications – Assesses understanding of different medications and their usage.
Nursing Procedures – Covers essential nursing techniques and protocols.
Number of Questions: 150
Duration: 165 minutes
Passing Score: 55%
If you do not pass the DHA Nursing Exam on the first attempt, you have two additional attempts, for a total of three attempts.
To be eligible for the DHA Exam, you must meet the following criteria:
Bachelor’s degree in Nursing
Minimum of two (2) years of post-qualification experience
Toxicology
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pediatrics
Geriatrics
Pharmacy Calculation and Compounding
Pharmacokinetics
Pharmaceutical Care and Disease State Management
Medication Safety
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Pharmacy Law and Ethics
No. of Questions: 150
Duration: 165 minutes
Pass Score: 60%
Exam Format: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
Subscribe to DHA Exam preparation resources, including MCQs from past exams.
Study the DHA Pharmacist syllabus, focusing on key areas such as pharmacokinetics, pharmacy law, and medication safety.
The application process involves multiple steps, from document submission to scheduling the exam.
Create an Account on the Sheryan Portal
Visit the DHA Sheryan Portal and register with your email.
Verify your account via email confirmation.
Profile Creation
Log in and complete your profile with personal details and a recent passport-sized photograph.
Document Submission
Upload the required documents in PDF or JPEG format.
Required documents include:
Valid ID Proof (Passport or National ID)
Educational Certificates (Degrees, Diplomas, Transcripts)
Experience Certificates (Letters from previous employers)
Good Standing Certificate from relevant licensing bodies
Proof of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities (if applicable)
Primary Source Verification (PSV) by Dataflow
Pay the PSV fee and wait for document verification, which may take a few weeks.
Exam Application and Fee Payment
Select your profession and category.
Choose an exam date and location.
Pay the required examination fee.
Scheduling the Exam
After confirmation, schedule your exam via the provided link.
Choose a suitable date and time.
Exam Day
Bring the necessary documents, including ID and exam confirmation.
Arrive at the exam center at least 30 minutes before the exam.
Exam Results and Licensing
Check your results on the Sheryan Portal.
If successful, follow the steps for obtaining your DHA License.
By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you can increase your chances of passing the DHA Exam and securing your healthcare license in Dubai.
Safety and Quality Control
Bacteriology
Virology
Immunology
Parasitology
Hematology
Blood Bank
Biochemistry
Hormones
Urinalysis
Mycology
To successfully obtain a DHA Medical Laboratory Technician License, you must have a thorough understanding of the DHA Medical Laboratory Technician Exam content.
What are some common causes of inaccurate results in a lab?
What types of tests should be run in order to determine the cause of a patient’s symptoms?
What are the basic principles of nucleic acid testing?
What is the difference between a routine and a special test?
How should you interpret lab results if the patient does not have a history of the condition?
No. of Questions: 100
Duration: 150 minutes
Pass Score: 60%
By subscribing to our MCQs database, you can prepare for the DHA Exam for Medical Laboratory Technician Speciality effectively and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
To successfully take the DHA Medical Laboratory Technician Exam, you must have a strong understanding of the following key curriculum areas:
Safety and Quality Control
Bacteriology
Virology
Immunology
Parasitology
Hematology
Blood Bank
Biochemistry
Hormones
Urinalysis
Mycology
The DHA Exam for Medical Laboratory Technician consists of multiple-choice questions and case-driven questions.
The minimum passing score for the DHA Medical Laboratory Technician Prometric Exam is 50%.
The Dubai Health Authority Medical Laboratory Technician Exam is available year-round.
The fee for the DHA Medical Laboratory Technician Prometric Exam is $240.
To apply for the DHA Medical Laboratory Technician License, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Hold a valid license to practice as a Medical Laboratory Technician in their home country.
Have a minimum of three years of experience post-graduation.
By ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria and preparing thoroughly, you can successfully clear the DHA Medical Laboratory Technician Exam and secure a career in Dubai’s healthcare sector.
The DHA Midwifery Exam assesses the knowledge and clinical skills required for midwives to practice safely and effectively in Dubai. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including:
The DHA Midwifery Exam is a standardized test that includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and case-driven scenarios. The exam evaluates theoretical knowledge, clinical decision-making, and professional judgment.
To be eligible to take the DHA Midwifery Exam, candidates must meet the following requirements:
The application process for the DHA Midwifery Exam follows a structured approach to ensure candidates meet the required qualifications.
The DHA Midwifery Exam fees may vary depending on additional processing charges. Below is an estimated cost structure:
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Amount (INR) (Conversion Rate: 1 USD = 83 INR) |
|---|---|---|
| PSV (DataFlow Verification) | $300 | ₹24,900 |
| Exam Registration Fee | $240 | ₹19,920 |
| DHA License Fee | $200 | ₹16,600 |
| Prometric Exam Scheduling Fee | $80 | ₹6,640 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $820 | ₹68,060 |
Note: The conversion rate used is approximate and may vary.
To succeed in the DHA Midwifery Exam, candidates should:
If a candidate does not pass the DHA Midwifery Exam, they are allowed a total of three (3) attempts. If unsuccessful in all three attempts, candidates must wait for one year before reapplying.
The DHA Midwifery Exam is a crucial step for midwives aspiring to work in Dubai. Proper preparation, understanding the exam format, and meeting the eligibility criteria will help ensure success. By following the outlined application process and study plan, you can achieve your goal of obtaining a DHA Midwifery License and advancing your career in the UAE healthcare sector.
| Exam Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| DHA Physiotherapy Prometric Exam | $210 | ₹17,500* |
| Primary Source Verification (PSV) | $100 | ₹8,300* |
| DHA License Fee | $200 | ₹16,600* |
(*Conversion rates may vary)
To be eligible for the DHA Physiotherapist License, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. What is the passing score for the DHA Physiotherapy Exam?
2. How many attempts are allowed for the DHA Physiotherapy Exam?
3. When can I take the DHA Physiotherapy Exam?
4. What happens if I fail the DHA Physiotherapy Exam?
5. What should I bring to the exam?
6. How can I practice for the DHA Physiotherapy Exam?
By following these steps and preparing effectively, you can increase your chances of passing the DHA Physiotherapy Exam and obtaining your DHA Physiotherapist License to work in Dubai’s healthcare sector.
Good luck with your DHA Exam preparation!
Interesting Facts about Healthcare jobs in Dubai Vs India
| Category | Dubai (UAE) | India |
|---|---|---|
| Nurses | 38,000+ licensed nurses (2023) | 3 million+ registered nurses |
| Pharmacists | 11,153 pharmacists in the UAE (2020) | 1.2 million+ registered pharmacists |
| Nurses in Government Sector | 4,520 employed by Dubai Health Authority (2019) | Large workforce in government hospitals and clinics |
| Pharmacist Density | 0.4 per 1,000 population (2002) | Approx. 0.9 per 1,000 population |
| Salary & Tax Benefits | Tax-free salaries; higher take-home pay | Salaries subject to income tax, reducing net earnings |
| Salary Example (Specialist Doctor) | ₹18 Lakh/month | ₹2-5 Lakh/month |
| Demand for Healthcare Professionals | High demand for expat healthcare workers, especially in private hospitals | High demand, but fierce competition due to a larger pool of qualified professionals |
| Licensing Requirements | DHA, HAAD, or MOH licenses required | Registration with state or national councils (MCI, PCI, NMC, INC, etc.) |
| Indian Workforce Contribution | The UAE recruits nurses from India to meet increasing demand | Many Indian healthcare professionals seek opportunities abroad |
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