DHA Examination: A Complete Guide for Healthcare Professionals

If you are a healthcare professional aspiring to work in Dubai, then passing the DHA Examination is your gateway to a rewarding medical career in the UAE. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) conducts this licensing exam to ensure only qualified and competent medical professionals are allowed to practice in the emirate. Whether you're a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or allied health professional, this guide covers everything you need to know about the DHA exam, including its eligibility, format, syllabus, and preparation tips.

What is the DHA Examination?

The DHA Examination is a mandatory licensing test for all medical and healthcare professionals who wish to work in Dubai. It evaluates your theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and understanding of medical practices aligned with international standards. Once you pass the exam, you become eligible to apply for a DHA license, which is essential to legally practice in Dubai's healthcare sector.

Who Should Take the DHA Exam?

The exam is intended for a wide range of healthcare professionals, including:

• General Practitioners
  
  

• Specialist Doctors
  
  

• Dentists
  
  

• Nurses & Midwives
  
  

• Pharmacists
  
  

• Laboratory Technicians
  
  

• Radiographers
  
  

• Physiotherapists
  
  

• Other Allied Healthcare Workers
  
  

Each category has its own eligibility criteria and application requirements.

DHA Exam Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the DHA exam, candidates must:

• Hold a recognized qualification in their field of expertise.
  
  

• Have a valid professional license in their home country.
  
  

• Meet the required years of experience (usually 2–3 years, depending on the role).
  
  

• Ensure documents like passport, degree certificates, transcripts, work experience letters, and professional license are up to date and attested.
  
  

DHA Examination Process

1. Create a Sheryan Account on the DHA website.
   
   

2. Submit the required documents for Primary Source Verification (PSV) through DataFlow.
   
   

3. Book the exam through Prometric, the authorized testing partner.
   
   

4. Appear for the DHA exam at a Prometric test center in your country or region.
   
   

5. Get your results and proceed with the licensing process upon success.
   
   

DHA Exam Pattern & Syllabus

The DHA exam is computer-based and consists mostly of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The number of questions, duration, and difficulty level depend on your specialization.

General Structure:

• Format: MCQs
  
  

• Duration: 2–3 hours
  
  

• Passing Score: Typically 60%–70%
  
  

• Subjects Covered: Medical knowledge, clinical case scenarios, ethical practices, and UAE healthcare laws.
  
  

A detailed syllabus is available on the official DHA website or can be obtained from coaching institutes specializing in DHA exam training.

How to Prepare for the DHA Exam

Here are some useful tips for effective preparation:

• Study the official syllabus thoroughly.
  
  

• Practice MCQs regularly using online platforms or books.
  
  

• Take mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment.
  
  

• Join online coaching or crash courses, especially if you're short on time.
  
  

• Use DHA exam preparation books or apps for topic-wise revision.
  
  

Benefits of Passing the DHA Exam

• Work legally in Dubai’s healthcare sector.
  
  

• Gain access to high-paying job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
  
  

• Enhance your career prospects across the UAE and Gulf region.
  
  

• Be part of a growing, modern, and multicultural healthcare ecosystem.
  
  

Final Thoughts

The DHA Examination is a crucial step in your journey to building a successful medical career in Dubai. With the right preparation, understanding of the process, and determination, you can achieve your goal of obtaining a DHA license and contributing to Dubai’s world-class healthcare system. Start your preparation today and take one step closer to your dream job in the UAE!