The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers outstanding opportunities for medical professionals from around the world. However, before practising, every healthcare worker must hold a valid Dubai medical license or an equivalent licence approved by the UAE health authorities. Whether you plan to work in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or the northern Emirates, understanding the DOH license requirements and MOH license requirements is essential to starting your medical career successfully.

What Is a Dubai Medical License?

A Dubai medical license is an official permit that allows medical professionals to practise legally within Dubai. It is issued by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), which regulates healthcare services, hospitals, clinics, and professionals across the Emirate. Although many refer to it generally, a “Dubai medical license” can also represent medical registration under other UAE authorities, depending on where you plan to work.

The UAE healthcare system is regulated by three main bodies:

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – for Dubai
• Department of Health (DOH) – for Abu Dhabi and Al Ain
• Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOH) – for Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain

Each follows specific procedures and guidelines. The DOH license requirements and MOH license requirements have been designed to ensure the highest standards of patient care and professional competence.

Understanding DOH License Requirements (Abu Dhabi)

If you aim to work in Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health (DOH) oversees the entire licensing process. Meeting the DOH license requirements ensures that healthcare professionals demonstrate competency, ethical practice, and updated clinical skills.

Key DOH License Requirements:

1. Recognised Qualification – A valid degree from an accredited medical or healthcare university.
2. Active Professional Licence – Registration in your home country or previous country of employment.
3. Experience – At least two years of relevant clinical experience post-qualification.
4. Primary Source Verification (PSV) – All certificates must be verified by an approved verification body such as DataFlow.
5. Assessment Exam – Depending on your role, you may be required to pass a Prometric or oral exam.
6. Certificate of Good Standing – Proof of ethical professional conduct.
7. No Career Gap – Gaps longer than two years usually require retraining or additional CME hours.

Once the DOH license requirements are met, candidates can register online through the DOH portal and receive their practice licence upon approval.

Common Challenges in Getting a Dubai Medical License

Applying for a Dubai medical license can be a detailed process, and many professionals encounter challenges due to incomplete documentation or misunderstanding of the verification steps. One of the most common issues is a delay in Primary Source Verification (PSV), which is mandatory for both DOH license requirements and MOH license requirements.

Other common challenges include:

• Inaccurate or outdated information on submitted certificates

• Missing attestation from embassies or local authorities

• Unclear job titles that don’t match UAE’s professional categories

• Misunderstanding which health authority to apply to (DHA, DOH, or MOH)

To avoid these setbacks, it’s essential to plan ahead, verify each requirement directly from the official portals, and work with experienced licensing consultants who understand the UAE healthcare regulations.

Understanding MOH License Requirements (Northern Emirates)

Professionals seeking to practise in the northern Emirates must meet the MOH license requirements set by the Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOHAP). This licence allows medical professionals to work across multiple Emirates except Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Core MOH License Requirements:

1. Accredited Qualification – A valid degree from a recognised medical institution.
2. Home Country Licence – You must hold a current licence or registration where you last practised.
3. Experience – A minimum of two years of clinical experience.
4. Document Verification – Mandatory Primary Source Verification of all submitted credentials.
5. MOH Exam – Some applicants may need to pass a Prometric test or oral interview.
6. Clean Professional Record – No malpractice or disciplinary cases.
7. Updated CME – Continuing Medical Education is often required for renewal or reapplication.

The MOH license requirements are similar to those of the DOH, but MOHAP covers a broader geographical area within the UAE.

Why a Dubai Medical License Matters

Holding a Dubai medical license or its equivalent from DOH or MOH is not just a legal necessity—it’s a mark of professional credibility. It assures employers and patients that practitioners meet UAE’s stringent standards for medical ethics, knowledge, and safety. Moreover, having the correct licence can open doors to better employment opportunities, career mobility, and recognition across the UAE healthcare sector.

Steps to Apply for a UAE Medical License

Whether you are applying under the DOH license requirements or the MOH license requirements, the general process involves:

1. Collecting and attesting your educational and professional documents.
2. Submitting them for Primary Source Verification (PSV).
3. Completing the required assessment exam, if applicable.
4. Uploading your documents and paying the necessary fees through the respective online portal.
5. Awaiting licence approval and activation.

Each licensing authority provides online support and detailed guides to help professionals complete the process smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Getting a Dubai medical license or fulfilling the DOH license requirements or MOH license requirements may seem complex, but it’s a structured process designed to maintain high standards in UAE healthcare. With proper preparation, verified documents, and an understanding of each authority’s expectations, medical professionals can achieve full registration and begin practising in one of the most advanced medical environments in the world.

If you’re seeking assistance with documentation, verification, or licensing procedures, consulting experts like Dr Expat can make the process faster and easier—helping you take your first confident step into the UAE’s thriving healthcare industry.