DHA License in Dubai Health Authority UAE
If you are a healthcare professional or entrepreneur from the UK planning to start a health business in Dubai, understanding the DHA license is essential. The Dubai Health Authority is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing healthcare services, professionals, and facilities across Dubai. Any individual or company wishing to operate a medical or healthcare-related activity must obtain a valid Dubai Health Authority licence.
Dubai has become one of the world’s most attractive destinations for healthcare investment due to its advanced infrastructure, strong economy, and growing population. From clinics and diagnostic centres to specialised medical practices, opportunities are vast. However, compliance with Dubai Health Authority regulations is mandatory before operations can begin.
This guide is designed to provide complete, user-focused information for UK investors and professionals. It covers requirements, documents, costs, processes, and key considerations to help you confidently apply for a DHA license in Dubai.
What is a DHA License in Dubai Health Authority
A DHA license is an official approval issued by the Dubai Health Authority that allows healthcare professionals and healthcare facilities to legally practise and operate in Dubai. The DHA ensures that all healthcare services meet international medical standards, patient safety protocols, and ethical practices.
Whether you are an individual professional such as a doctor, nurse, dentist, or therapist, or a business owner planning to open a clinic or medical centre, you must hold the appropriate DHA Health Authority licence to operate legally in Dubai.
Why You Need a Dubai Health Authority Licence for Healthcare Business Dubai
The healthcare sector in Dubai is strictly regulated. A Dubai Health Authority license is required for several important reasons:
• To ensure patient safety and service quality
• To regulate professional qualifications and experience
• To maintain international healthcare standards
• To allow legal operation of medical facilities and professionals
• To gain trust from patients, insurers, and partners
For UK entrepreneurs, obtaining a DHA license is the foundation for building a compliant and credible start business in Dubai.
Types of DHA License in Dubai
There are two main categories of DHA licenses depending on whether you are an individual professional or a healthcare facility owner.
Professional DHA License
A professional DHA license is issued to individual healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, dentists, physiotherapists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals. This medical license allows the holder to practise their profession legally within DHA-approved healthcare facilities in Dubai.
Facility DHA License
A facility DHA license is required to operate a healthcare business such as a clinic, hospital, dental centre, diagnostic laboratory, or specialised medical facility. This license ensures that the physical premises, staff, and services comply with Dubai Health Authority regulations.
Eligibility Requirements for DHA License in Dubai
Meeting eligibility criteria is a critical step before applying for a DHA license.
Eligibility for Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals must meet the following requirements:
• Recognised medical or healthcare qualification
• Minimum clinical experience, usually two years or more depending on specialty
• Valid professional registration from the home country
• Good Standing Certificate from the relevant authority
• Successful primary source verification of documents
• Passing the DHA exam where applicable
Eligibility for Healthcare Business or Facility
Healthcare businesses must meet additional requirements:
• Approved trade name and business activity
• Initial business approval from Dubai authorities
• Suitable clinic or facility location
• Compliance with DHA facility design and safety standards
• Employment of DHA-licensed healthcare professionals
How to Apply for a Professional DHA License in Dubai
The process for obtaining a professional DHA license follows a structured approach.
Step 1 Register on the DHA Portal
Applicants must create an account on the DHA online portal and select the relevant healthcare profession.
Step 2 Submit Required Documents
Upload personal, educational, and professional documents, including passport copy, qualifications, experience letters, and Good Standing Certificate.
Step 3 Primary Source Verification
Documents are verified directly with issuing institutions through the primary source verification process.
Step 4 DHA Exam
Certain healthcare professionals are required to pass a DHA licensing exam to assess knowledge and competency.
Step 5 Final Review and Approval
After successful verification and exam completion, the application is reviewed by the Dubai Health Authority.
Step 6 License Activation
Once approved, the DHA license is issued and activated through an approved healthcare facility.
How to Get a DHA Facility License for Healthcare Business Dubai
If you plan to open a clinic or healthcare facility, the process involves additional steps.
Step 1 Business Setup and Initial Approval
Register the business, reserve a trade name, and obtain initial approval from the relevant Dubai authority.
Step 2 DHA Initial Approval
Submit a detailed application to the Dubai Health Authority outlining healthcare services, staffing, and facility plans.
Step 3 Facility Preparation
Prepare the clinic or medical facility according to DHA design, safety, and equipment standards.
Step 4 DHA Inspection
The DHA conducts an on-site inspection to ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.
Step 5 Facility License Issuance
After passing inspection, the DHA facility license is issued, allowing operations to begin.
Documents Required for DHA License in Dubai
Documents for DHA Professional License
• Passport copy and recent photograph
• Educational certificates and transcripts
• Professional license from home country
• Experience certificates
• Good Standing Certificate
• Primary source verification reports
Documents for DHA Facility License
• Trade license and initial business approval
• Tenancy contract and Ejari registration
• Facility layout and design approvals
• List of DHA-licensed staff
• Safety, infection control, and waste management plans
DHA License Cost in Dubai
The cost of a DHA license depends on the type of application.
Professional DHA License Cost
Costs include application fees, document verification, exam fees, and license activation charges. These vary depending on profession and specialty.
Facility DHA License Cost
Facility licensing costs include initial approvals, inspections, facility registration, and trade license fees. Costs increase based on clinic size and services offered.
Time Required to Get a DHA License in Dubai
• Professional DHA license applications typically take six to eight weeks
• Facility DHA license applications may take three to ten weeks depending on inspection readiness
Proper documentation and preparation can significantly reduce delays.
Benefits of DHA License for UK Entrepreneurs
Holding a DHA license provides several advantages:
• Legal operation in Dubai’s healthcare sector
• High credibility and international recognition
• Access to a growing healthcare market
• Ability to sponsor staff visas
• Opportunities to partner with insurers and hospitals
Important Tips for UK Applicants Applying for DHA License
• Prepare documents well in advance
• Ensure qualifications meet DHA standards
• Plan business setup costs realistically
• Consider professional support for licensing and approvals
• Follow DHA regulations carefully to avoid delays
Conclusion:
Obtaining a DHA license in Dubai is a vital step for UK healthcare professionals and investors looking to establish a healthcare business in the UAE. While the process involves detailed documentation and strict compliance, Dubai offers a highly rewarding healthcare market.
With proper planning, expert guidance, and a clear understanding of Dubai Health Authority requirements, your healthcare business can successfully launch and setup business in Dubai under a valid DHA license.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a DHA license and who needs it in Dubai
A DHA license is an official approval issued by the Dubai Health Authority that allows healthcare professionals and healthcare facilities to operate legally in Dubai. Doctors, nurses, dentists, therapists, clinics, medical centres, and diagnostic facilities must all obtain a DHA Health Authority licence before starting operations.
2. Can UK healthcare professionals apply for a DHA license in Dubai
Yes, UK-qualified healthcare professionals can apply for a DHA license in Dubai. The Dubai Health Authority recognises qualifications from the UK, provided applicants meet experience requirements, submit a Good Standing Certificate, and successfully complete primary source verification and any required DHA exams.
3. How long is a DHA license valid in Dubai
A DHA license is usually valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Renewal requires continued compliance with Dubai Health Authority regulations, valid professional registration, and association with a licensed healthcare facility.
4. Is a DHA license required to open a clinic in Dubai
Yes, a DHA facility license is mandatory to open and operate a clinic or healthcare business in Dubai. In addition to a trade license, the healthcare facility must meet DHA design standards, staffing requirements, and pass a DHA inspection before operations can begin.
5. Can I convert a DHA license to another UAE emirate
A DHA license is specific to Dubai and cannot be directly used in other emirates. However, healthcare professionals may apply for license conversion or transfer to other authorities such as DOH (Abu Dhabi) or MOHAP, subject to their regulations.