How to Set Up a Medical License in Dubai

If an individual wants to setup a medical clinic, he/she needs to obtain a professional license which is provided by the DED (Department of Economic Development).  The long list of trades that require a professional license can be picked up from any Department of Economic Development office. Professional license requires a local service agent to practice in the emirate and holders of professional licenses can employ a limited number of workers who will also be covered under the professional license.

Medical professionals in Dubai must obtain their license through Dubai Health Authority (DHA).  The procedure involves payment of fees, training courses, exams and ministry approvals. Doctors in Dubai must obtain specific licenses from DHA depending on whether they are interns, general practitioners, specialists, consultants or resident doctors. Similarly, dentists must obtain specific licenses from DHA depending on whether they are interns, general dentists, specialists, consultants or resident dentists. Nurses too must obtain their license from DHA depending on whether they are applying for registered nurse, registered midwife, nurse practitioner, mental health nurse, pediatric nurse, community nurse or assistant nurse. It is to be noted that even alternative medical practitioners such as ayurveda, chiropractic medicine, homeopathy, naturopathic medicine, osteopathic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and Unani medicine must obtain the required license from DHA.

Those physicians wishing to start a clinic within Dubai can also take advantage of the services of Dubai Healthcare City, which assists in both obtaining a permit and setting up a healthcare practice within its free zone.