How to Get a DHA Nursing License in Dubai

1. Understanding the DHA License

The DHA license is issued by the Dubai Health Authority, which regulates all healthcare professionals working in Dubai-based hospitals, clinics, and specialty centers. Nurses holding this license are authorized to work only within Dubai. If a nurse wishes to work in Abu Dhabi or the northern Emirates, separate licensing under DOH or MOHAP would be required.

The DHA licensing system ensures that all nurses meet the educational, professional, and ethical standards expected in the Emirate. It includes document verification, a qualifying exam, and a registration process through the Sheryan portal, the DHA’s digital licensing system.

2. Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for a DHA license, nurses must meet specific educational and professional standards.

Minimum qualifications include:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent qualification from an accredited institution.
  
• A valid home-country license to practice nursing.
  
• At least two years of post-graduate clinical experience (some roles may require more).
  
• Proof of good standing certificate from the current or previous nursing council or employer (valid for 6 months).
  

Documents required for submission:

• Passport copy
  
• Recent photograph
  
• Educational certificates
  
• Nursing license and experience letters
  
• Good standing certificate
  
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
  
• Updated CV
  

All submitted documents must be verified through DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV) before the license can be issued.

3. The DHA Licensing Process (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Create a Sheryan Account
Start by visiting the DHA Sheryan portal. Register a personal account, which will serve as your main dashboard for all licensing steps.

Step 2: DataFlow Verification
Submit your educational and professional documents for DataFlow verification. This process ensures that your degrees, experience, and licenses are genuine. Verification usually takes 4–6 weeks.

Step 3: Apply for Eligibility
Once the DataFlow report is approved, apply for an Eligibility Certificate via Sheryan. This letter confirms that you meet DHA’s requirements and can proceed to the exam stage.

Step 4: Schedule and Take the DHA Exam
After receiving your certificate letter, you must pass the DHA Prometric Exam for nurses. The exam is computer-based, consisting mainly of multiple-choice questions covering clinical knowledge and nursing fundamentals.

• Passing score: 60% or higher.
  
• Attempts allowed: up to 3.
  
• Format: 150 multiple-choice questions (approximate).
  

Step 5: Obtain Job Offer and License Activation
After passing the exam, your license remains inactive until you secure employment with a DHA-approved healthcare facility. Once you receive a job offer, your employer activates your DHA license under their facility.

4. Fees and Validity

The total cost of obtaining a DHA nursing license varies depending on verification and exam fees.

Approximate cost breakdown:

• DataFlow verification: AED 900–1,200
  
• DHA application and exam: AED 700–1,000
  
• License activation: AED 200–300
  

Validity:
A DHA nursing license is valid for one year, renewable annually. Renewal requires an active job contract and valid good standing record.

5. Experience Requirements

While DHA typically requires a minimum of two years of clinical experience, nurses with less experience may still apply but might be approved for limited practice or assistant nurse roles until full eligibility is achieved.

Can you get a DHA license without experience?
Generally, no. However, newly graduated nurses may apply under specific internship or assistant nurse categories, depending on employer sponsorship and facility type.

6. Converting or Holding Multiple Licenses

Can you convert MOH or DOH license to DHA?
Yes, but not automatically. Nurses with MOH or DOH licenses must apply through the Sheryan system, submit verified documents, and may need to re-take the exam depending on DHA’s assessment.

Can I have both MOH and DHA licenses?
Yes. Nurses can hold multiple active licenses in different Emirates, but each license is tied to its respective jurisdiction. You cannot use a DHA license to work in Abu Dhabi, for instance.

7. Benefits of Having a DHA License

Holding a DHA license significantly increases employability and earning potential in Dubai’s healthcare sector. It demonstrates compliance with strict quality standards and opens doors to leading employers, including:

• Dubai Health Authority hospitals (e.g., Rashid, Latifa, Dubai Hospital)
  
• Major private healthcare networks (e.g., NMC, Aster, Mediclinic, Saudi German Hospital)
  

Other key benefits include:

• Mobility between DHA-approved facilities within Dubai
  
• Eligibility for specialized nursing positions with higher pay scales.
  
• Recognition across the GCC for professional credibility.

Read also: DHA vs DOH Nursing Exams: Differences & Which to Take

8. Renewal and Maintenance

To renew a DHA license:

• Maintain active employment under a DHA-approved facility.
  
• Complete required Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours annually.
  
• Keep DataFlow verification and good standing documents updated.
  

Failure to renew on time can result in suspension or the need for reapplication.

9. FAQs

How long is the DHA license valid?
One year, renewable annually.

What is the passing score for the DHA exam?
Minimum 60%.

How many times can I attempt the exam?
Three attempts are allowed per eligibility period.

How much does the DHA license cost?
Total costs range from AED 1,800 to AED 2,500 including verification, exam, and activation.

What if I fail the exam?
You can retake it after a waiting period and by rebooking through Prometric.

Conclusion

Getting a DHA nursing license is a structured but achievable process that ensures all nurses in Dubai meet professional and ethical standards. It requires verified credentials, exam clearance, and active employment under a licensed facility. For nurses seeking a career in Dubai, understanding and following each step carefully—from DataFlow to license activation—guarantees a smoother path toward working legally and confidently in one of the UAE’s most dynamic healthcare environments.