Home › Licensing by Authority › DHA License
DHA License in Dubai for Healthcare Professionals
DHA License for Healthcare Professionals: Requirements & Process
Clear, profession-specific guidance for DHA eligibility, DataFlow/PSV, assessment requirements, registration and licence activation in Dubai. To practise in Dubai, you register with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) through its Sheryan system, and a DHA-licensed facility then activates your licence. Overseas Healthcare Consultant (OHC) helps you prepare and apply. We are an independent consultancy, not DHA.
Start your DHA licensing journey
Not sure which DHA pathway applies to your profession? Start with your professional title, qualification and experience. Share your details and our team will guide you on the appropriate next step.
DHA licence at a glance
Source: DHA Sheryan “Get Registered” service, checked 29 September 2026. The processing time is DHA’s published average for its own step, not an OHC timeline or guarantee.
What is a DHA licence?
A DHA licence allows a healthcare professional to practise in a DHA-licensed healthcare facility in Dubai. It is issued in two stages. First, DHA registration confirms that you meet the requirements for the position you applied for (category, title and specialty) and adds you to the Dubai Medical Registry. Then a DHA-licensed healthcare facility activates that registration into a professional licence. You can practise only once the licence is issued.
DHA registration is valid for one year, so the facility must activate it within that time.
Two stages: registration, then licence
Registration means DHA has found you eligible. The licence is issued when your employer activates that registration in Sheryan.
Who needs a DHA licence?
Healthcare professionals who will practise in Dubai under DHA and are not yet registered with DHA: physicians, dentists, nurses and midwives, allied health professionals, and traditional, complementary and alternative medicine practitioners. Requirements differ by profession, title and specialty, so each pathway is reviewed individually.
DHA licence by profession
DHA License for Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists and physiotherapy technicians.
DHA License for Medical Lab Technicians
Lab technicians and technologists.
DHA License for Radiographers
Radiographers and radiology professionals.
DHA License for Allied Healthcare
Occupational therapists, optometrists and other allied health.
DHA assessment and exam registration support: specialties we assist with (71)
- Gastroenterology Doctor
- General Dentistry
- General Practice
- General Surgery
- Intensive Care
- Internal Medicine
- Lab Technician
- Lab Technologist Bachelor
- Massage Therapy
- Medical Microbiology
- Radiologist
- Radiology
- Registered Nurse
- Renal Dialysis Technician
- Respiratory Medicine
- Orthodontics
- Otolaryngology-ENT
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Pediatrics
- Perfusionist
- Periodontics
- Pharmacist
- Pharmacy Technician
- Physical Medicine
- Physiotherapist
- Microbiology technologist
- Midwifery
- Nephrology
- Neurosurgery
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Cardiology
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Clinical pathology
- Clinical psychology
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygiene
- Dermatologist
- Endodontic
- Family Medicine
- Forensic Medicine
- Physiotherapy Technician
- Plastic Surgery
- Prosthodontics
- Psychiatry
- Radiographer
- Anatomical Pathology
- Anesthesia
- Assistant Nurse
- Occupational Therapist
- Biochemistry Technician
- Ophthalmology
- Optometrist
- Oral& Maxillofacial Surgery
- Restorative Dentistry
- Urology
- Vascular Surgery
- DHA Consultancy In Kerala
- DHA Consultancy in Chennai
- DHA Consultancy In Delhi
- DHA Consultancy In Trivandrum
- DHA Consultancy In India
- DHA Consultancy In Hyderabad
- DHA Consultancy In Mumbai
- DHA Consultancy In Coimbatore
- DHA Consultancy In Bangalore
- DHA Consultancy In Ernakulam
- DHA Consultancy In Kolkata
- DHA Consultancy In Kochi
- DHA Consultancy In Pune
- DHA Consultancy In Noida
- DHA Consultancy In Thiruvananthapuram
The DHA licensing process, step by step
This is the order DHA publishes for its “Get Registered” service. All applications go through Sheryan; DHA does not accept them by email.
- Self-Assessment ToolCheck your eligibility against DHA’s Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR).
- DataFlow verificationPrimary source verification of your qualifications and experience.
- Assessment, if requiredComputer-based test delivered by Prometric.
- Get Registered applicationSubmit your application and documents in Sheryan.
- DHA reviewDHA reviews your registration eligibility.
- Oral assessment, if requiredDepends on the professional position.
- Licence activationA DHA-licensed facility activates your registration into a licence.
Plan your application efficiently. DHA states that DataFlow verification and the computer-based assessment can be done in parallel. DHA clears Get Registered draft applications that stay inactive for more than 6 months.
Need help understanding your DHA licensing pathway?
Speak with our healthcare licensing team.
Eligibility and the PQR
DHA assesses eligibility against the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR). You start with DHA’s online Self-Assessment Tool, which tells you whether you appear to meet the PQR for a DHA-licensed facility. DHA’s own review during registration confirms it. You must not be blacklisted.
Requirements such as qualifications and years of experience differ by profession, title and specialty, so check the current PQR for your category. Your professional title matters: applying under the wrong title is a common reason for delays.
If the Self-Assessment says “not eligible”: DHA says you may still apply for a Review Registration Eligibility, a manual review of your qualifications.
Read DHA’s Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR, official PDF) →
DHA licence requirements explained →
Documents DHA lists for registration
- Recent passport-size photo
- Passport copy
- Logbook, for surgical specialties
Your qualification and experience documents are checked separately through DataFlow primary source verification, and DHA needs the verification result before your registration can go ahead.
Document needs vary by profession and specialty. We help you prepare a complete, consistent set before you submit.
DHA DataFlow: primary source verification
DHA’s primary source verification (PSV) is carried out by DataFlow Group. DataFlow contacts the institutions that issued your qualifications and experience letters to confirm them. DHA needs the verification result for your documents before your registration can go ahead.
We have supported many professionals with the DHA DataFlow process. Our team explains each document requirement and helps you avoid common mistakes before submission.
Read our DHA DataFlow guide →
How to apply for DHA DataFlow →
The DHA exam (assessment)
Where your category requires an assessment, DHA uses a computer-based test (CBT) delivered by Prometric, and some positions also need an oral assessment. You must pass the related assessment within 3 attempts across the Authorities. The exam mode depends on your specialty, and DHA publishes it in its “Mode of Exam per Specialty” list.
DHA exam: eligibility and registration →
DHA licensing exam →
DHA coaching classes and preparation resources: OHC offers DHA training sessions and study materials, online anywhere or in person at our Bengaluru office. DHA exam preparation · DHA study materials · DHA exam coaching
DHA registration vs an active DHA licence
These are two different things. Many applicants treat registration as the finish line, but you cannot practise until a facility activates your licence.
| DHA registration | Active DHA professional licence | |
|---|---|---|
| What it confirms | You meet DHA requirements for your category, title and specialty; you join the Dubai Medical Registry | You may practise at the facility that activated it |
| Who applies | You, through Sheryan (Get Registered) | The DHA-licensed facility, with your consent in Sheryan |
| Validity | 1 year, during which it must be activated | Set when the facility activates it (DHA lists full-time licences of 1, 2 or 3 years) |
| Can you practise? | No | Yes, once the licence is issued |
For activation, DHA requires the facility’s licence to be active with your specialty, your registration to be active, valid medical malpractice insurance covering you, and a valid labour card for non-UAE nationals. Licences can be full-time, part-time or trainee.
Source: DHA “Activate Professional License” service, checked 29 September 2026.
How long the DHA licence process can take
| Step | DHA’s published time | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Assessment Tool | Instant (automated result) | DHA Sheryan |
| New DataFlow report | 15 working days from payment | DHA Sheryan FAQ |
| DataFlow report transfer | 5 working days from payment | DHA Sheryan FAQ |
| Get Registered | 5 working days on average | DHA Sheryan |
| Licence activation by facility | Instant, or 1 working day if your personal records change | DHA Sheryan |
Use these published service times to plan individual steps. Your complete pathway also depends on document readiness, verification responses, assessment availability and your employer. OHC helps you organise these dependencies; the overall duration varies with your case.
Common delays and how to avoid them
Applying under the wrong title
Check the PQR for your category and title before you start.
Incomplete DataFlow documents
Registration cannot go ahead until DHA receives your DataFlow result.
Using up assessment attempts
You have 3 attempts across the Authorities, so prepare before you book.
Letting drafts expire
DHA clears Get Registered drafts inactive for more than 6 months.
Letting registration lapse
Registration is valid for one year and must be activated by a facility in that time.
Missing activation prerequisites
Malpractice insurance and, for non-UAE nationals, a labour card are needed for activation.
How Overseas Healthcare Consultant helps
Key features of our DHA licensing support, for doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals applying from India.
Why choose Overseas Healthcare Consultant?
- Professionals in overseas healthcare consulting
- Expert guidance to choose the right pathway
- Commitment to timely, well-organised applications
- Training and study materials for licensing examinations
- Placement assistance and a clear, hassle-free service
Healthcare licensing guidance
Guidance focused on healthcare professional licensing pathways, documentation and application readiness.
Application support
Step-by-step support for understanding requirements, preparing documents and progressing through the applicable DHA process.
Profession-specific guidance
Your pathway is reviewed according to your profession, title, specialty and credentials rather than a one-size-fits-all checklist.
DHA DataFlow
Experienced DataFlow support to help you avoid mistakes and prepare a complete, accurate application.
DHA exam registration
We assist with the online registration and document submission for DHA and other Prometric licensing exams (HAAD/DOH, MOH, SLE, Qatar and Oman Prometric).
DHA training and book materials
DHA exam coaching classes and study materials, online or at our Bengaluru office.
Account management
A dedicated professional manages your application with you.
Placement assistance
Support with job placement in Gulf countries for successful candidates, subject to employers’ current requirements.
Our independent Bengaluru consultancy supports you with application planning, document preparation and coordination. DHA determines eligibility and licensing, assessment providers manage examinations, verification agencies check credentials, and employers make hiring decisions. OHC helps you prepare for each relevant stage; these decisions and outcomes remain with the organisations responsible for them.
Applying on your own or with OHC
| On your own | With OHC assistance |
|---|---|
| You work out the order of steps yourself | We explain the sequence for your profession and title |
| You prepare DataFlow documents alone | We help you prepare them before you submit |
| You register for the exam yourself | We help with exam registration and preparation |
| DHA makes the decision | DHA still makes the decision. We cannot guarantee it. |
DHA, DOH or MOHAP: which licence do you need?
| Authority | When it applies |
|---|---|
| DHA | You will practise in Dubai under DHA. This page. |
| DOH | You will practise in Abu Dhabi. DOH licence → |
| MOHAP | The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention licence. UAE MOH licence → |
The authority depends on where your employer’s facility is licensed. Check with your employer before you apply.
What professionals say about our DHA support
#1 Consultancy For DHA Dataflow Process .my qualification ms ophthalmology I Have Contacted Overseas Healthcare Consultant for the process of DHA dataflow .They provided all the details Clearly by step by step after that i submitted all the documents my process is completed within 28 days .i am very happy with the service of overseas healthcare consultant.
Best Consultancy for DHA dataflow Process. Thank you Overseas Healthcare Consultant for Completing my Dataflow process within time. i already got the job in Dubai as a dentist after that i contacted this consultancy to complete licensing process i have very short time 1 month within that time they completed my process thank you very much.
Hassle free dataflow process. i compared to so many other consultancies….i think overseas healthcare consultant is the best consultancy for dha dataflow process very transparent of process. keen understanding about dha dataflow what is happening with application i prefer to choose this consultancy for dha dataflow process.
Genuine consultants who have your well being in mind. Provide relevant advice and guide you accordingly.I used their services for DHA Dataflow. I wish them every success in the future and highly recommend Overseas Healthcare consultant to anyone looking to realize their dreams of settling in Gulf Countries
The staff is very good with in depth knowledge about Dataflow and its requirements which no other consultancy has. I would recommend do visit them once before you zero down on a consultancy. Absolutely transparent information with clarity.
I have successfully completed my DHA Exam Process through Overseas Healthcare consultant. Right from day 1 they were very crisp and correct in guiding me in every process. They assisted in Dataflow Process and Placements . They are very knowledgeable and transparent. Especially their transparency in the process makes them stand out compared to others. Thank you once again for Overseas Healthcare consultant.
Genuine OHC client testimonials, published with permission and shown in the clients’ own words. Individual experiences; timelines vary.
DHA licence: frequently asked questions
How do I get a DHA license?
- Self-Assessment Tool
- DataFlow primary source verification
- Computer-based assessment, if required
- Get Registered application
- DHA review
- Oral assessment, if required
- Licence activation by a DHA-licensed facility
What are the DHA license requirements?
Can I apply for a DHA licence from India?
Do I need a job offer before applying?
Is DHA registration the same as a DHA licence?
Does everyone need to take the DHA exam?
Can DataFlow verification and the DHA exam happen at the same time?
What if the Self-Assessment says I am not eligible?
How many attempts do I get at the DHA assessment?
How long does the DHA licence process take?
When can I start practising in Dubai?
How long is DHA registration valid?
Related DHA resources
DHA exam →
Eligibility, registration and assessment.
DHA DataFlow →
Primary source verification for DHA.
DHA licence requirements →
What DHA asks for by profession.
DHA exam preparation →
Coaching and study materials.
DHA exam coaching support by city
Our coaching is delivered online anywhere in India, or in person at our Bengaluru office. These pages explain the options for candidates in each city.
All DHA guides
Registration and licensing
DataFlow
Preparation
Official sources and last review
- DHA Sheryan: Get Registered service description
- DHA Sheryan: Self Assessment Tool service description
- DHA Sheryan: Activate Professional License service description
- DHA Sheryan: frequently asked questions
- DHA Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR)
- DHA Online Exam (CBT) guideline
Ready to start your DHA licence? Call us now.
Send your details and we will explain your next step.