Comprehensive Guide to Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Resident and Professional Licensing

DHA (Dubai Health Authority) approval is mandatory for all new healthcare-related developments in Dubai. To work in Dubai’s healthcare sector, medical professionals must obtain a DHA license issued by the Dubai Health Authority’s Health Regulation Department (HRD). This licensing process ensures that only qualified professionals are permitted to practice and that every project meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Resident Eligibility Criteria

In determining the applicant eligibility to be licensed as Resident the applicant shall comply with the following requirements:

• Primary medical degree awarded after a course of study comprising at least 5,500 hours (or four years full time equivalent study) from approved listed Medical Schools.
• Successful completion of internship program (one (1) year program).
• Internship program shall be done in different areas e.g. Medical, Surgical, Paediatrics and Obstetric and Gynaecology.
• Recent graduation should not be more than four (4) years.

Residents Practicing Conditions

Resident license will be issued for applicant meeting the above mentioned requirements and approved by the Medical Education Department (MED). Residents shall work only in the following healthcare facilities:

• Accredited teaching government, private hospital or health facility approved by Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
• A teaching hospital of a university or medical college approved and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR).

Steps to Apply for a DHA License

The application process begins with submitting an application, either online or via mail through the DHA Sheryan portal. Professionals should follow these steps:

1. Step 1: Self-Assessment – Complete a self-assessment on the DHA Sheryan portal and submit relevant documents for evaluation.
2. Step 2: Sheryan Account Creation – Register on the DHA Single Sign-On portal to receive login credentials via email.
3. Step 3: PSV & CBT Assessment – Complete the Primary Source Verification (PSV) through Dataflow Group and, if required, take the Prometric CBT assessment.
4. Step 4: DHA Registration – Submit documents and pay the DHA registration fee (AED 200).
5. Step 5: Oral Examination (If Required) – Schedule an oral evaluation if mandated for your profession (Fees: AED 250 standard | AED 2,000 urgent).
6. Step 6: License Activation – Pay license activation fees (AED 1,000 – AED 4,000) and receive the official DHA professional license.

Required Documentation for Licensure

For initial processing, the following documents are required as per DHA licensing requirements:

• Passport-size photograph (recent and up-to-date) and photocopy of passport.
• Academic credentials and evidence of successful completion from an approved listed medical school.
• Experience certificates and evidence of all clinical experience including appointments.
• Good Standing Certificate (GSC).
• Approval from Medical Education Department (MED) to join the residency program.
• Medical fitness examination report (for candidates aged 65 and above).

DHA License Renewal Process

DHA licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed to continue practicing. Renewal applications can be submitted three months before expiration through the DHA. Licensed healthcare practitioners must update their records with new credentials and experience details.

Summary of Licensing Fees

Required documents for license renewal include a copy of current passport, PSV outcome for standing, and renewal of malpractice policy. Once the DHA approves the evaluation, the applicant receives the renewed license via courier.