United Arab Emirates

UAE Healthcare Professional Licence

DHA, DOH and MOH licensing for all medical specialities. We handle Dataflow, exams, and applications, start to finish.

To practise as a healthcare professional in the UAE, you need a licence from the regulatory authority in the emirate where you will work. Three main authorities issue healthcare professional licences: the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the Department of Health (DOH) for Abu Dhabi, and the Ministry of Health (MOH) for the remaining emirates.

All applications require primary source verification through Dataflow, a time-consuming process that the final approval depends on. Bacora manages this entirely on your behalf.

Licensing Requirements by Authority

DHA
Dubai Emirate
Dubai Health Authority
4 to 10 weeks (after Dataflow)
Prometric exam required for most clinical roles

Key Documents:

  • Valid Dataflow primary source verification
  • Recognised medical degree or qualification
  • Good standing certificate from previous licensing body
  • Passport copy and UAE visa
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Relevant experience letters
DOH
Abu Dhabi Emirate
Department of Health
6 to 12 weeks (after Dataflow)
Competency-based assessment (Prometrics or portfolio)

Key Documents:

  • Completed Dataflow verification
  • Degree certificates (attested)
  • Experience certificates (attested)
  • Current professional licence (if applicable)
  • UAE Emirates ID or visa page
  • Passport photograph
MOH
Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, UAQ
Ministry of Health
4 to 8 weeks (after Dataflow)
MOH licensing exam required for most roles

Key Documents:

  • Dataflow primary source verification
  • Degree certificates (Ministry of Foreign Affairs attested)
  • Experience letters (attested)
  • Medical fitness certificate
  • Good conduct certificate
  • UAE residency visa

What Bacora Handles for You

When you work with us, you do not need to chase authorities, track document requirements, or worry about deadlines. We take all of that off you.

  • Review your qualifications and assess your licensing eligibility
  • Prepare and submit your complete Dataflow application
  • Track the primary source verification and resolve any discrepancies
  • Register you for the DHA, DOH, or MOH exam where required
  • Prepare and submit the complete licence application
  • Follow up with the authority until your licence is issued
  • Support for any future renewals or cross-emirate conversions

Start Your Licensing Today

Book a free consultation and we will assess your situation, tell you exactly what you need, and give you a clear timeline, no obligation.

Book a Free Consultation Chat on WhatsApp

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the full UAE licensing process take from start to finish?

The total timeline is typically 8 to 16 weeks. Dataflow verification alone takes 4 to 8 weeks. The licensing application after that takes a further 2 to 8 weeks depending on the authority and speciality.

My qualifications are from outside the UAE. Does that affect the process?

No, the Dataflow process exists specifically to verify international qualifications. Bacora manages this regardless of where your degree or training was obtained, including the attestation requirements if applicable.

I already have a licence in one emirate. Can I transfer it to another?

Licence conversion between emirates is possible in most cases. The requirements vary, DHA to MOH, for example, has different requirements than DOH to DHA. We assess your specific situation and manage the conversion process.

What happens if my Dataflow comes back with issues?

Dataflow discrepancies are not uncommon. We review the issue, advise you on the appropriate response, prepare any clarification letters required, and resubmit on your behalf. Most discrepancies can be resolved with the correct documentation.

Do you support licence renewal as well as new applications?

Yes. We manage both new licence applications and renewals for DHA, DOH, and MOH. We also track your renewal dates and can alert you in advance so your licence never lapses.

What is the DHA Prometric exam and how do I prepare for it?

The DHA Prometric is a computer-based multiple-choice examination assessing clinical knowledge for your speciality. It is conducted at Prometric testing centres. Bacora can connect you with structured exam preparation courses covering clinical content and exam technique.