Imagine a career where you not only deliver medical excellence, but also live and work in one of the most dynamic and prosperous environments in the world. A career where your income is tax-free and your professional opportunities are as limitless as the Dubai skyline. This scenario is not a distant utopia, but a tangible reality for qualified doctors and dentists who take the plunge to acquire a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licence. But the window of opportunity for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is closing. Competition is getting tougher, requirements are increasing, and those who hesitate now risk missing the boat. This guide is more than just a collection of information; it is your urgent call to action. We take you step-by-step through the entire process, highlighting the hurdles and pitfalls and giving you the tools to maximise your chances of success. It's time to take your future into your own hands - and it starts in Dubai.
Why Dubai is the outstanding location for doctors and dentists NOW
In recent years, Dubai has developed into a global centre for trade, finance and innovation. But one of the most impressive transformations has taken place in the healthcare sector. The city is no longer just a luxurious holiday destination, but also a magnet for medical talent and patients from all over the world. For doctors and dentists looking for a new challenge, Dubai offers a unique combination of professional opportunities, financial prosperity and an unrivalled quality of life. But why is now the perfect time to make the move?
Medical tourism and exponential growth
The figures speak for themselves: back in 2016, medical tourism in Dubai generated a turnover of over AED 1.4 billion when the city welcomed 326,649 medical tourists - an increase of 9.5 % on the previous year [12]. And the growth has only accelerated since then. The medical tourism market in the GCC is forecast to grow from USD 367.41 million in 2024 to an impressive USD 889.97 million by 2032 [13]. With an annual growth rate of 9.5 % in the healthcare sector [15], Dubai is positioning itself as the undisputed epicentre of this development. For doctors and dentists, this means a steadily growing demand for high-quality medical services and a broad pool of international patients.
Tax benefits that maximise your income
One of the most compelling reasons to pursue a career in Dubai is the tax-free income. Unlike most Western countries where high tax and contribution burdens significantly reduce net income, in Dubai you keep 100 % of your salary [1] [2]. Salaries are highly competitive: a doctor in Dubai can earn between AED 20,000 and AED 85,000 per month, depending on specialisation and experience, with top earners even reaching an annual income of up to AED 1 million [5] [6]. This financial incentive not only allows you to enjoy an excellent standard of living, but also to build wealth much faster than in your home country.
World-class infrastructure and career opportunities
Dubai is investing heavily in its healthcare infrastructure. Hospitals and clinics are equipped with the latest technology and meet the highest international standards. This environment allows you to work at the cutting edge of medical research and practice. In addition, the city's multicultural environment attracts patients and colleagues from all over the world, offering you unique professional and personal enrichment. Dubai's strategic location as a bridge between East and West also opens up unrivalled networking opportunities on a global scale.
The window of opportunity is closing - why you need to act NOW
Word of Dubai's success has spread and competition for the best positions in the healthcare sector is constantly increasing. The DHA is constantly adapting its requirements in order to keep the quality of medical care at the highest level. This means that the barriers to obtaining a licence will become higher rather than lower in the future. The market conditions in 2025 are optimal, but this window will not remain open forever. Those who act now will secure a decisive advantage over the growing competition and position themselves for a successful long-term career in one of the world's most exciting healthcare markets. Procrastination is no longer an option - the time to act is now.
The DHA licence: Your key to practising medicine in Dubai
The DHA licence is more than just a document; it is the official permission to practice your medical expertise in Dubai. Without this licence, it is illegal to work in a clinic, hospital or private practice in the emirate. The Dubai Health Authority has established a strict but fair system to ensure that only highly qualified professionals take responsibility for the health of the population. This system, managed through the centralised Sheryan portal, is the hub for anyone seeking a medical career in Dubai.
What is the DHA licence and who needs it?
The DHA licence is a mandatory requirement for all healthcare professions. This includes not only doctors (general practitioners, specialists and consultants) and dentists (both general practitioners and specialist dentists), but also nurses, pharmacists and a variety of allied health professions [2]. It is important to recognise the fundamental difference between the Registration and the Licensing to understand. Registration is the first step in which the DHA checks your qualifications and confirms your basic suitability. This registration is valid for one year and is a preliminary stage to the actual licence. You will only receive the active licence, which entitles you to practise, once you have a concrete job offer from a DHA-recognised healthcare facility [32].
What does the licence cover?
By obtaining a DHA licence, you are authorised to legally treat patients in Dubai. The licence is linked to your person and your specific professional title and speciality. It is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. An essential requirement for renewal is proof of continuing medical education (CME). You must complete at least 20 CME hours per year, which are recognised by the DHA [33]. This requirement ensures that all practising doctors and dentists in Dubai keep up to date with the latest medical science and practice and continuously improve their skills.
Requirements in detail: What you need to bring with you
The path to a DHA licence is demanding and requires careful preparation and compilation of your documents. The DHA has defined clear criteria to ensure the competence and professionalism of all applicants. These include educational qualifications, professional experience, ethical standards and, in many cases, a theoretical examination.
Educational certificates and qualifications
The basis for any application is a recognised academic degree from an accredited university. For dentists, degrees such as the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) are usually recognised [17]. For doctors, the requirements vary depending on the speciality, but a degree in medicine is the basic requirement. A critical point is the equivalence check: your degree must be recognised as equivalent not only in your home country, but also by the authorities in the UAE. The DHA maintains a list of recognised institutions, which is updated regularly [18].
Professional experience and certificates
The DHA attaches great importance to practical experience. General practitioners and general dentists generally require at least two years of clinical experience after completing the mandatory internship [19]. For medical specialists and dentists, the requirements are much stricter and include completion of postgraduate training and several years of professional experience in the respective specialisation. An indispensable document is the Good Standing Certificate (GSC). This must be issued by the medical association or the competent authority of the country in which you last practised and must not be older than six months at the time of application [22]. It confirms that no disciplinary measures have been taken against you.
Special cases: Dentists and specialists
There are additional requirements for certain specialisations. Dentists who wish to work in the field of implantology, for example, must provide evidence of at least three years' experience after their internship [1]. Surgeons and dentists specialising in surgery must have a detailed Logbook over the last two years, documenting all procedures performed with date, type of procedure and anonymised patient data. This logbook must be stamped and confirmed by a supervisor or the respective institution [24]. References from supervisors and colleagues may also be required to substantiate your expertise.
Language skills and other requirements
Fluency in English is essential for working in Dubai's international environment and is a basic requirement for communicating with patients and colleagues and for passing examinations. Although knowledge of Arabic is not essential, it is a considerable advantage when dealing with local patients and integrating into the culture. In addition, the DHA expects all applicants to have a high level of cultural competence and the ability to operate professionally in a diverse and multicultural environment.
The step-by-step process: Your way to the DHA licence
The process for obtaining a DHA licence is clearly structured but detailed. Each step must be carried out carefully to avoid delays. However, with the right preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can navigate this path efficiently and successfully. Here is your detailed roadmap to guide you from initial registration to active licence.
Step 1 - Sheryan portal registration (1-2 days)
Your journey begins on the official Sheryan portal of the DHA (sheryan.dha.gov.ae). This is the central online platform for all licensing matters. Here you create your personal account, select your profession and specialisation and enter basic information about your education and work experience. Creating a profile is the first, decisive step towards being accepted into the DHA system. This process is usually completed within one to two days and is free of charge.
Step 2 - Dataflow/Primary Source Verification (PSV) (30-45 days)
Registration is followed by the most critical and time-consuming part of the process: the Primary Source Verification (PSV), which is usually carried out by the specialised company DataFlow. With PSV, all your submitted documents - educational qualifications, work certificates, licences and the Good Standing Certificate - are checked for authenticity directly at the issuing institutions [25]. This process is not a mere formality, but a rigorous verification. You can expect it to take an average of 30 to 45 days. Depending on the number of documents to be verified, the costs range from 150 to 300 USD.
Step 3 - Eligibility Application (10-15 working days)
Once the positive PSV report is received, you can submit the Eligibility Application to the DHA. In this step, a DHA panel will evaluate your overall qualifications, work experience and verification report to determine if you meet the requirements for the licence you are applying for. The outcome may be „Eligible“, „Conditionally Eligible“ or „Rejected“. This step usually takes 10 to 15 working days and the fee is approximately AED 200.
Step 4 - Prometric test/CBT (variable)
For most international applicants, passing a computer-based test (CBT) is mandatory. This exam is administered by Prometric and tests your clinical knowledge and interdisciplinary skills. The format typically consists of 150 multiple-choice questions to be answered within 150 minutes. A major advantage is that you can take this exam at one of the many Prometric test centres around the world, including in your home country [29]. The exam costs between 110 and 150 USD. The results are usually available after 5 to 10 working days. If you fail the exam, you can retake it up to three times a year.
Step 5 - Registration (immediately after verification)
Once you have successfully completed the examination, you will receive your DHA registration. As already mentioned, this is not yet the active licence to practice, but the official confirmation of your eligibility. This registration is valid for one year and costs a fee of AED 200. Within this year you must find employment to activate your licence.
Step 6 - Job offer and licence activation (5-10 working days)
The final step on the path to active medical activity in Dubai is to secure a job offer from a DHA-recognised healthcare facility. Your future employer will then initiate the licence activation process. This will require you to provide additional documents such as your Emirates ID, a valid residency permit and health insurance. Once these documents are submitted and approved, your licence will be activated. This final step takes around 5 to 10 working days and the licence fee is between AED 2,000 and AED 3,000.
Step 7 - Annual renewal
Your DHA licence is valid for one year and must then be renewed. To maintain high standards, the DHA requires proof of at least 20 hours of recognised continuing medical education (CME) per year. Make sure you meet the renewal deadlines and complete the required continuing education in a timely manner to maintain your DHA licence. Doctor Dubai licence without any problems.
Cost and time frame at a glance
One of the most frequently asked questions from doctors and dentists concerns the expected costs and duration of the licensing process. Transparent planning of budget and time is crucial for a smooth process. Here is a realistic breakdown of what to expect so you can plan your Medical activity in Dubai without any nasty surprises.
Total cost table
The fees for the DHA licence for doctors in Dubai are spread across different stages of the process. Whilst some costs are fixed, others may vary depending on your specific circumstances. The following table gives you a clear overview of the expected expenses:
| Step | Fee (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Dataflow PSV | 600 - 1,200 AED ($150 - $300) |
| Prometric test (CBT) | 400 - 550 AED ($110 - $150) |
| Eligibility Application | 200 AED |
| Registration | 200 AED |
| Licence activation | 2,000 - 3,000 AED |
| Total (estimated) | 3,400 - 5,150 AED |
Important note: This table only contains the official fees. Additional costs may be incurred for the translation and notarisation of documents, obtaining the Good Standing Certificate in your home country or preparing for the Prometric exam. Careful budget planning, including a buffer for unforeseen expenses, is therefore essential.
Realistic schedule
The time frame for obtaining the Dentists Dubai Licence can vary greatly depending on the efficiency of the issuing authorities in your home country and the completeness of your documentation. Based on our experience, here are three possible scenarios:
- Optimum scenario (6-8 weeks): All documents are correct and complete, verification by DataFlow proceeds without any queries, and you pass the Prometric check on the first attempt. This is the fastest way possible.
- Average scenario (2-3 months): This is the most realistic time frame. Minor delays, e.g. when issuing the GSC or in the event of queries from DataFlow, are already factored in here.
- Worst-case scenario (4-6+ months): Significant problems, such as unrecognised qualifications that require reassessment or failure to pass the exam, can significantly delay the process.
The biggest time factor by far is Primary Source Verification (PSV). By ensuring that your documents are perfect from the outset, you can speed up the process considerably.
The most common pitfalls and how to avoid them
The road to a DHA licence is paved with potential stumbling blocks that often cost applicants months of time and significant additional costs. Knowing these pitfalls is the first step to avoiding them. Here are the most common mistakes we see at DoctoFlow - and how to avoid them with the right strategy.
Document errors that cost months
The most common reason for delays are incorrect or incomplete documents. These include poorly legible scans, inconsistent data (e.g. different name spellings), missing official translations or incomplete employment references. Each of these errors leads to a query from DataFlow or the DHA, which immediately sets the process back weeks, if not months. DoctoFlow's tip: Have every single scan and every document checked by an expert before you submit it. A professional document check is a small investment that pays for itself many times over.
Non-recognised qualifications
Another critical point is the recognition of your qualifications. If your university is not on the list of institutions recognised by the UAE, this can lead to an immediate rejection. Sometimes there are equivalence issues that require a costly re-evaluation. DoctoFlow's tip: Clarify the recognition of your university and your degree, before you start the process. At DoctoFlow, we have access to the latest databases and can carry out a preliminary check for you to avoid any nasty surprises.
Lack of experience and logbook problems
The DHA has clear requirements regarding professional experience. Gaps in the CV or insufficiently documented clinical or surgical experience can lead to rejection. For surgical subjects in particular, complete and correctly stamped logbooks are crucial. DoctoFlow's tip: Keep your logbook meticulously and have it regularly countersigned by your supervisor. Make sure that your references describe your clinical tasks and responsibilities in detail.
GSC problems: The most common stumbling block
The Good Standing Certificate (GSC) is often the most problematic part of the application. It must not be older than six months, and in some countries it can take weeks or even months to be issued. If the GSC expires when the documents are submitted, the entire process is halted. DoctoFlow's tip: Apply for the GSC as early as possible, but time it so that it remains valid during the PSV period. We can help you determine the optimum time and speed up the process in your home country.
Regional differences and GCC regulations
A common misunderstanding concerns the transferability of licences within the UAE and the GCC region. A DHA licence is only valid in Dubai. For Abu Dhabi you need a licence from the DOH (Department of Health) and for the other emirates you need a licence from the MOH (Ministry of Health). Although there are processes in place to transfer licences, these still require re-verification and are not automatic. DoctoFlow's tip: Make a clear decision in favour of the Dubai location from the outset if you want to Dubai Health Authority Licence and plan accordingly. We will advise you on the specific requirements and differences between the respective licences.
Success strategies and insider tips from DoctoFlow
Understanding the DHA licensing process is half the battle. Mastering it requires a strategic approach. At DoctoFlow, we've successfully guided hundreds of doctors and dentists through this complex process. Based on this experience, here we share our best insider tips that will not only save you time and money, but also put your career in Dubai on the fast track.
Shorten preparation time: here's how
The key to a fast process lies in perfect preparation. Start collecting your documents as early as possible - ideally months before you want to submit the application. Use a detailed checklist (like the one provided by DoctoFlow) to make sure you don't miss anything. A key tip is to optimise parallel processes: Apply for your Good Standing Certificate and start compiling your logbooks while preparing your academic documents for translation and notarisation. Every day you save in preparation is a day you can practise earlier in Dubai.
Exam preparation: maximise your chances of success
The Prometric exam is a major hurdle for many people. Approach it strategically. Don't just rely on memorising facts, but focus on understanding clinical scenarios. Use high-quality, up-to-date exam materials and practice tests that resemble the format of the real exam. DHA testing are modelled on. Time management is crucial: practise answering the 150 questions in the allotted time to avoid feeling under pressure on exam day. DoctoFlow provides access to the best study resources available and can help you create a personalised study plan.
Networking in Dubai: your career booster
Your career in Dubai doesn't just start on your first day of work, but already during the licensing process. Use this time to build a professional network. Attend medical conferences and trade fairs in Dubai, join professional online communities and forums for doctors in the UAE and get in touch with colleagues who have already taken the plunge. A good network can not only help you find a job, but also give you valuable insights into practice location, marketing and patient acquisition.
After the licence: practice location and patient acquisition
The active licence is in the bag - now what? Choosing the right location for your practice is crucial to your success. Analyse the demographics of different parts of Dubai: Where do the expats who speak your language live? Where is there a high density of families or young professionals? Develop a marketing strategy that is tailored to Dubai's multicultural population. Building a strong online presence and focusing on excellent patient service is key to long-term patient retention in this competitive market.
Success stories: Doctors and dentists who have made it
The path to a DHA licence may be challenging, but the success is all the more rewarding. The following fictitious but realistic practical examples show how doctors and dentists have overcome the hurdles with the right support and realised their career dreams in Dubai.
Dr M. - General practitioner from Germany
Dr M was an experienced general practitioner from Berlin who dreamed of a career in Dubai but was overwhelmed by the complexity of the process. His biggest challenge was the complete documentation of his many years of professional experience from various practices. How DoctoFlow has helped: We carried out a detailed analysis of his documentation, identified missing evidence and helped him to request it from his previous employers. Thanks to our optimised workflow, his DataFlow process was completed in just 28 days. Result: Dr M. passed the Prometric exam at the first attempt and received three job offers within two weeks of activating his registration. Today, he heads the general medicine department at a renowned clinic in Jumeirah.
Dr S. - Dentist from Austria
Dr S., an ambitious dentist from Vienna specialising in aesthetic dentistry, was faced with the challenge that her postgraduate courses were not directly on the DHA list. A rejection was imminent. How DoctoFlow has helped: We compiled a detailed portfolio of their clinical cases and training and applied for an equivalence assessment from the DHA. Thanks to our expertise in communicating with the authorities, we were able to demonstrate the high quality of their training. Result: Her qualifications have been fully recognised. Dr S. has since opened her own boutique practice in Dubai Marina and is benefiting from the booming market for Dubai medical tourism doctor licence.
Dr K. - Specialist in orthopaedics from Switzerland
Dr K., a highly qualified orthopaedic surgeon from Zurich, had a problem with his Good Standing Certificate, which had been delayed due to bureaucratic hurdles in Switzerland. His schedule was in jeopardy. How DoctoFlow has helped: We used our direct contacts to speed up the process with the Swiss Medical Association. At the same time, we prepared his application to the DHA so that it could be submitted as soon as the GSC was received. Result: The feared delay was minimised. Dr K. was able to take up his desired position as a senior consultant at one of Dubai's leading hospitals and now enjoys the benefits of a tax-free top salary.
How DoctoFlow simplifies your path to a DHA licence
The road to a DHA licence is a journey you don't have to take alone. DoctoFlow is more than just a consulting agency; we are your strategic partner who will be by your side every step of the way. Our goal is to make the complex, time-consuming and often frustrating process as simple and efficient as possible for you. We take the bureaucratic burden off your shoulders so that you can concentrate on what you do best: Medicine at the highest level.
Comprehensive advice from start to finish
From the moment you decide to pursue a career in Dubai to the day you hold your active licence in your hands, we offer you seamless support. We start with a free initial consultation in which we analyse your individual situation and create a tailor-made roadmap for you. We clarify your questions, evaluate your qualifications and give you an honest assessment of your chances of success and the expected time frame.
Document check and error prevention
The most common reason for delays is document errors. Our team of experts subject every single one of your documents to a rigorous quality and completeness check. We ensure that scans are legible, translations are correct and all data is consistent. This proactive error prevention is the key to avoiding costly and time-consuming queries from DataFlow and the DHA in the first place.
Time savings through expert knowledge
Our in-depth knowledge of DHA processes and our direct contacts with the relevant authorities enable us to significantly speed up the process for you. We know exactly which requirements need to be met, how documents need to be prepared and how to communicate with the authorities. This expertise not only saves you weeks or months of waiting time, but also the stress and uncertainty associated with navigating an unfamiliar bureaucratic system.
Act NOW: Your next step to a DHA licence
You have seen the unique opportunities Dubai has to offer. You know the path and the hurdles. The most important realisation, however, is that the window of opportunity to make the best possible start is now open, but it won't stay open forever. Every day you hesitate is a day another qualified colleague takes your potential place. Don't leave your future to chance. Take the initiative.
Free initial consultation with DoctoFlow
Your first step is simple and completely risk-free. Book a free initial consultation with one of our experts today. In this consultation, we'll assess your specific situation, answer your most pressing questions and provide you with a clear, actionable plan for your DHA Registration into your hands. There are no obligations - just valuable insights and clarity for your future planning.
Your customised roadmap
Based on the initial consultation, we create your personal roadmap to a DHA licence. This customised plan contains a detailed schedule, clear milestones and a transparent cost breakdown. With this roadmap in hand, you have full control and an overview of your entire licensing process.
Contact us today
Don't wait any longer. Transforming your career and lifestyle is just an email or phone call away. Our multilingual team is ready to guide you on your journey to Dubai. Contact us now and take the decisive step towards your future.
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue a medical career in Dubai is more than just a job change - it's an investment in a future full of opportunities. From a top tax-free salary to working in a state-of-the-art healthcare system and living in one of the most exciting cities in the world, the benefits are undeniable. Getting there, obtaining the DHA licence for doctors and dentists in Dubai, is challenging, but with the right preparation and an experienced partner at your side, it is absolutely feasible. The demand for medical professionals is high, competition is increasing and requirements are becoming stricter. So the message is clear: act now. Start planning today, secure your advantage and lay the foundation for a life and career that will exceed your wildest expectations. Your future as a respected doctor or dentist in Dubai is waiting for you.
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