You’ve secured a promising job offer in the UAE healthcare sector—but which license do you actually need? The answer isn’t always straightforward.
The United Arab Emirates operates three separate healthcare licensing authorities across its seven emirates, each with distinct requirements, costs, and processing timelines.
According to the UAE’s unified Professional Qualification Requirements, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOH), and Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DOH) each govern specific geographic jurisdictions with their own credentialing systems. This means choosing the wrong authority can delay your career start by months and cost thousands of dirhams in duplicate applications.
This comprehensive comparison reveals exact costs, processing times, exam requirements, and transfer possibilities so you can make the right choice for your career.
Whether you’re a UK-trained consultant, a general practitioner from India, or a specialist nurse planning your UAE move, understanding these distinctions ensures you invest your time and resources wisely. For additional context on UAE healthcare licensing, explore our complete guide to UAE healthcare licensing.
Based on 2025 official data from DHA, MOH, and DOH portals, this comparison provides accurate, current information to guide your licensing decision.
Understanding the Three UAE Healthcare Licensing Authorities
The UAE’s healthcare regulation operates through three distinct bodies, each established to maintain quality standards within specific geographic boundaries. This structure emerged from the UAE’s federal system, where individual emirates retain authority over certain regulatory functions.
DHA – Dubai Health Authority (Dubai Only)
The Dubai Health Authority regulates all healthcare practice within Dubai emirate, processing applications through the Sheryan digital licensing portal.
All physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals must obtain DHA licensure before practicing in Dubai’s hospitals, clinics, or private medical centers. The DHA license grants authority to practice exclusively within Dubai emirate and cannot be used in other UAE regions.
MOH – Ministry of Health and Prevention (5 Northern Emirates)
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) oversees healthcare licensing for five northern emirates: Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. Unlike DHA’s emirate-specific scope, MOH provides federal coverage across multiple regions.
The authority processes applications through its digital platform, with medical facilities initiating the licensing process on behalf of healthcare professionals. The MOH license enables practice across all five northern emirates without requiring separate credentials for each region.
DOH – Department of Health Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain)
The Department of Health Abu Dhabi (formerly HAAD until its 2019 restructuring) regulates healthcare in Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain. The authority processes applications through the TAMM digital platform, requiring a healthcare facility nomination before final license issuance.
The DOH jurisdiction covers the UAE capital and its surrounding regions, representing significant opportunities in government-backed healthcare institutions.
Geographic Coverage: Where Each License Lets You Practice
Understanding geographic limitations is critical for career planning. Each authority’s jurisdiction determines where you can legally practice, affecting your job opportunities and professional mobility.
DHA License Coverage (Dubai Emirate)
A DHA license authorizes practice solely within the Dubai emirate boundaries. This includes Dubai’s extensive private healthcare sector, government hospitals, and specialized medical facilities within the emirate.
Dubai’s healthcare market represents the largest concentration of private medical facilities in the UAE, attracting significant international patient volumes.
MOH License Coverage (Five Northern Emirates)
MOH licensing enables practice across Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain, providing geographic flexibility across multiple regions.
This federal approach allows healthcare professionals to work in various facilities across these emirates without additional licensing requirements. The northern emirates offer diverse opportunities from Sharjah’s established healthcare infrastructure to emerging medical centers in other regions.
DOH License Coverage (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain)
DOH licensure authorizes practice throughout the Abu Dhabi emirate, encompassing both Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain. This includes access to the capital’s prestigious government hospitals, specialized medical facilities, and private healthcare institutions. Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector emphasizes government-backed facilities with competitive compensation structures.
Cost Comparison: Investment Required for Each License
Healthcare licensing costs vary significantly across authorities, impacting your initial investment when entering the UAE market. Understanding these differences helps with financial planning and career decision-making.
DHA Licensing Costs (AED 2,500-6,500 Total)
According to DHA’s official fee structure, doctors and dentists pay between AED 1,000-5,000 for license activation, while nurses and technicians pay AED 800-2,000. Additional costs include:
- DataFlow primary source verification: AED 1,200-1,500
- DHA exam fees: AED 200-1,000
- Credentialing fees: AED 200
- Total investment: AED 2,500-6,500 depending on profession and specialty
MOH Licensing Costs (AED 2,000-4,000 Total)
MOH licensing expenses are generally lower than other authorities. The breakdown includes:
- Exam fees: AED 1,000-1,500
- MOH evaluation fees: AED 500 (approximate)
- DataFlow verification: AED 1,200-1,500
- Application processing fees
- Total investment: AED 2,000-4,000
DOH Licensing Costs (AED 2,500-5,000 Total)
DOH exam fees range from AED 750-1,050, depending on specialty and assessment type. When combined with verification and activation:
- DOH exam: AED 750-1,050
- DataFlow verification: AED 1,200-1,500
- License activation fees
- Total investment: AED 2,500-5,000
Physicians pay around AED 100 for computer-based testing, while technicians pay approximately AED 50 for assessments.
Timeline Comparison: How Long Each Process Takes
Processing timelines significantly impact when you can begin practicing in the UAE. Each authority operates on different schedules based on verification procedures, exam availability, and administrative workflows.
DHA Processing Timeline (2-4 Months Average)
The complete DHA process typically takes 4-8 weeks from application submission to license activation, though this extends to 2-4 months when including DataFlow verification. DataFlow primary source verification generally requires 4-6 weeks, varying based on application volume and credential requirements.
Dr. Ahmed Hassan, a consultant cardiologist, completed his DHA licensing 30% faster than expected through strategic document preparation and efficient exam scheduling.
MOH Processing Timeline (2-3 Months Average)
MOH’s processing timeline spans 2-3 months total, including document submission, exam preparation, and exam scheduling. Applications are typically processed within 1-2 working days after all requirements are met. However, the DataFlow verification phase and exam scheduling extend the overall timeline to approximately 2-3 months from initial application to final licensure.
DOH Processing Timeline (3-5 Months Average)
DOH licensing timelines extend to 3-5 months, primarily due to facility nomination requirements and verification procedures. The authority typically processes applications within 17 working days once all requirements are complete. The extended overall timeline reflects DOH’s requirement for employer nomination before final license issuance.
Exam Requirements: What You Need to Pass
Assessment requirements differ across authorities, with variations in exam providers, formats, and passing criteria. Understanding these differences helps with preparation planning.
DHA Prometric Exam (150 MCQs, 170 minutes)
DHA examinations consist of 150 multiple-choice questions completed within 170 minutes, administered by Prometric at authorized test centers globally.
Candidates must achieve at least 60% to pass, with three attempts allowed per year. Applicants receive three attempts across all authorities, with one additional attempt possible at a different authority after three failures.
MOH Prometric Exam (150 MCQs, 3 hours)
MOH examinations feature 150 multiple-choice questions, completed within 3 hours, and are also administered by Prometric.
Candidates must pass Primary Source Verification through DataFlow before receiving approval to take the MOH exam. The assessment evaluates theoretical knowledge and practical competency specific to each healthcare profession.
DOH Pearson VUE Exam (CBT or Oral Assessment)
The DOH offers two examination types: computer-based testing (CBT), conducted by Pearson VUE, and oral examinations administered by the DOH’s examination board committee.
Physicians pay approximately AED 100 for CBT, while technicians pay around AED 50. The DOH examination validity extends 5 years, though candidates must ensure their supporting documents remain current when applying for registration.
Special Considerations for UK-Trained Doctors
UK medical qualifications receive special recognition across all three UAE licensing authorities, offering streamlined pathways for qualified professionals.
CCST/CCT Recognition Across All Authorities
According to the unified Professional Qualification Requirements, physicians holding a Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST) or Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) from the UK attain the Consultant title without experience requirements.
This recognition applies across DHA, MOH, and DOH, representing significant advantages for UK-trained specialists. The PQR guidelines also extend this recognition to physicians with American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) certification, Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) certification, and College of Family Physicians Canada (CFPC) certification.
Consultant Title Without Experience Requirements
UK CCST/CCT holders achieve Consultant status directly, bypassing typical experience requirements that other applicants must fulfill. This streamlined pathway applies to non-surgical and non-interventional specialties.
Dr. James Thompson, a UK consultant orthopedic surgeon with CCST recognition, secured Consultant classification in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, receiving multiple job offers through professional networks.
Surgical Specialty Exceptions
Physicians holding UK CCT in surgical or interventional specialties who don’t meet experience requirements must pass the authority’s assessments for Consultant licensure. These professionals undergo reassessment after 6 months of practice.
This exception ensures surgical specialists demonstrate practical competency beyond credential verification alone.
Transferring Between Authorities: Career Flexibility Options
License transfer mechanisms enable healthcare professionals to pursue opportunities across different UAE regions without completely restarting the licensing process.
When You Can Transfer (Minimum Waiting Periods)
DHA license holders can transfer immediately to MOH or DOH without waiting periods. However, DOH license transfers require a minimum 3-month working period before initiating transfer to DHA or MOH.
MOH license holders face no waiting period for transfers to DHA or DOH. These regulations facilitate professional mobility while ensuring practitioners gain adequate experience in their current positions.
Transfer Process & Requirements (Good Standing Certificate)
License transfer procedures require a Good Standing Certificate from the current licensing authority, typically issued within 2-5 working days through online portals.
Applicants must submit an electronic request through the evaluation system, attach required specialty documents, include a copy of the current license, provide locked copies of all previous DataFlow reports, and submit a valid passport copy. The standard transfer processing time typically spans four weeks, though this varies depending on verification response times.
Holding Multiple Licenses Simultaneously
Healthcare professionals can maintain up to three active licenses simultaneously under different authorities (DHA, DOH, MOH). Each license requires an individual facility to maintain an active status.
No NOC (No Objection Certificate) is required to implement license transfers in the UAE. This flexibility allows professionals to maintain multiple employment opportunities across different emirates.
2025 Regulatory Updates & Future Changes
The UAE healthcare licensing landscape continues evolving through digital transformation and regulatory harmonization initiatives.
Unified National Licensing Platform (Coming Soon)
In January 2025, the Ministry of Health and Prevention announced plans for a unified national platform to provide licenses for healthcare workers, enabling medical professionals to work anywhere in the UAE’s public and private healthcare facilities.
According to Alla Mansour Yahya, acting director of MOHAP’s Licensing and Accreditation Department, this national project consolidates efforts from health entities across the UAE into one platform, reducing repetitive requirements and standardizing procedures. While the exact rollout date remains unannounced, this represents a significant shift toward unified healthcare regulation.
PQR Version 3 Updates (2022-2025)
The third version of Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements was published in 2022 by MOHAP, DOH, DHA, and Sharjah Health Authority. Ministerial Decision No. 51 of 2025 amended certain provisions of the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements. These updates reflect ongoing refinement of qualification standards, experience requirements, and examination criteria.
Digital Transformation Initiatives
MOHAP’s services are transitioning to updated digital platforms, with scheduled updates from August 1-4, 2025, affecting licensing and re-licensing services. DHA’s Sheryan portal continues receiving updates, with Version 1.2 of the licensing manual issued in May 2025.
These digital enhancements streamline application processes, reduce processing times, and improve transparency for healthcare professionals.
Comparison Table: DHA vs MOH vs DOH At-a-Glance
| Criteria | DHA (Dubai) | MOH (Northern Emirates) | DOH (Abu Dhabi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geographic Coverage | Dubai only | Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, UAQ | Abu Dhabi & Al Ain |
| Total Cost Range | AED 2,500-6,500 | AED 2,000-4,000 | AED 2,500-5,000 |
| Processing Timeline | 2-4 months | 2-3 months | 3-5 months |
| Exam Provider | Prometric | Prometric | Pearson VUE |
| Exam Format | 150 MCQs (170 min) | 150 MCQs (3 hours) | CBT or Oral |
| Eligibility Validity | 1 year | 5 years | 3 months |
| Transfer Wait Period | None | None | 3 months |
| License Renewal | Annual | Annual | Annual |
| Application Portal | Sheryan | MOHAP Website | TAMM |
| Job Offer Required | For activation only | Yes, before the final license | Yes, before final license |
| Best For | Private sector focus, Dubai market | Multi-emirate flexibility | Government healthcare, capital opportunities |
How to Choose the Right License for Your Career Goals
Strategic license selection aligns with your professional objectives, location preferences, and career timeline.
If You’re Targeting Dubai’s Private Healthcare Market (Choose DHA)
Dubai’s healthcare sector concentrates the UAE’s largest private medical facilities, international patient volumes, and specialized practice opportunities. DHA licensing provides access to this dynamic market, attracting healthcare professionals seeking diverse clinical exposure and competitive compensation.
The emirate’s established healthcare infrastructure supports career advancement through specialization and private practice development.
If You Want Federal Coverage Across Multiple Emirates (Choose MOH)
MOH licensing offers geographic flexibility across five emirates, enabling practice in Sharjah’s established healthcare facilities, Ajman’s growing medical centers, and emerging opportunities in RAK, Fujairah, and UAQ.
This federal approach suits professionals seeking diverse experiences across multiple regions without additional licensing requirements. The lower overall cost structure makes MOH licensing financially accessible for early-career professionals.
If Abu Dhabi’s Government Healthcare Appeals to You (Choose DOH)
DOH licensing provides access to the UAE capital’s government-backed healthcare system, prestigious medical facilities, and competitive government employment packages.
Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector emphasizes research, specialized care, and long-term career stability through government institutions. The capital’s healthcare infrastructure continues expanding, creating ongoing opportunities for qualified professionals.
If You’re Uncertain About Location (Start with DataFlow)
DataFlow primary source verification provides credential verification transferable across all three authorities, enabling flexibility in licensing decisions.
Complete DataFlow verification before committing to a specific authority, allowing you to pursue opportunities across different emirates as they emerge. This approach maximizes career flexibility while avoiding duplicate verification costs.
For professionals considering broader GCC opportunities, explore Saudi Arabia’s SCFHS licensing system and Qatar’s QCHP licensing requirements to compare regional healthcare markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I work in Dubai with a MOH license, or do I need a separate DHA license?
No, you cannot work in Dubai with a MOH license. Each authority’s license is valid only within its specific jurisdiction. MOH licenses authorize practice in Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain, but not Dubai. To practice in Dubai, you must obtain a separate DHA license. However, after working under your MOH license, you can transfer to DHA without waiting periods by following the license transfer process.
Q2: Which license is cheapest: DHA, MOH, or DOH?
MOH licensing typically offers the most cost-effective option, ranging from AED 2,000-4,000 total. DHA costs AED 2,500-6,500, DOH costs AED 2,500-5,000, while MOH costs AED 2,000-4,000. However, cost differences stem primarily from exam fees and license activation charges rather than DataFlow verification, which remains consistent across authorities. Your ultimate choice should balance cost considerations with career objectives and location preferences rather than focusing solely on initial licensing expenses.
Q3: If I’m a UK-trained doctor with CCST, do I still need to take the licensing exam?
No, UK doctors with CCST or CCT generally receive examination exemptions. According to the unified PQR guidelines, physicians holding UK Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST) or Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) attain the Consultant title without experience requirements or examinations. However, this exemption does not apply to surgical and interventional specialties, where additional assessments may be required despite CCST/CCT credentials. All UK-trained doctors still complete DataFlow verification regardless of examination exemption status.
Q4: Can I transfer my DHA license to MOH or DOH after I start working?
Yes, license transfers between authorities are possible. DHA license holders can transfer immediately to MOH or DOH without waiting periods. The process requires obtaining a Good Standing Certificate from DHA (issued within 2-5 working days), submitting required documents, linking your existing DataFlow report to the new authority, and having a job offer from a facility under the target authority. Standard transfer processing typically takes four weeks. Healthcare professionals can maintain multiple active licenses simultaneously across different authorities.
Q5: What’s the difference between an eligibility letter and an active license?
An eligibility letter confirms you’ve met qualification requirements and passed examinations, but doesn’t authorize practice. Eligibility letters are valid for one year (DHA), five years (MOH), or three months (DOH). An active license requires a job offer from a licensed healthcare facility, which sponsors your final license activation. Only active licenses authorize legal practice and can be transferred between authorities. You can apply for jobs with an eligibility letter, but you must activate your license through facility sponsorship before beginning clinical work.
Conclusion
Each UAE licensing authority serves distinct purposes—DHA for Dubai’s dynamic private healthcare market, MOH for the northern emirates’ versatility, and DOH for Abu Dhabi’s government-backed opportunities. Your licensing choice shapes your UAE healthcare career trajectory and determines where you can build professional excellence.
Understanding these distinctions ensures you invest time and resources in the authority that aligns with your career goals, location preferences, and professional specialization. Whether you’re a UK-trained consultant receiving CCST recognition, a general practitioner beginning your UAE journey, or a specialist nurse targeting specific emirates, strategic license selection positions you for success.
With the unified national licensing platform on the horizon, today’s licensing choice establishes your foundation for tomorrow’s expanded opportunities across the UAE healthcare landscape. Need personalized guidance on which license fits your qualifications and career goals? Schedule a consultation to discuss your optimal licensing pathway.
