If you're a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional planning to practice in the UAE, you'll need a personal medical license from the relevant health authority the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) in Dubai, or the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) elsewhere in the UAE. This is separate from a clinic's business license; it's your individual professional authorization to practice.

PROBIZ supports healthcare professionals through the licensing process, from document preparation to exam coordination and final approval, so you're not navigating multiple government departments on your own.

(Note: if you're setting up a clinic or medical facility as a business, see our Clinic License or DHA Approval pages instead — this page covers individual practitioner licensing specifically.)

Who Needs a Medical License?

• Doctors and specialists relocating to practice in the UAE
• Nurses and allied health professionals
• Dentists, pharmacists, and other licensed healthcare roles
• Healthcare professionals switching employers within the UAE (in some cases, a license transfer or update is required)

What's Required for Medical Licensing

• Verified educational qualifications and degree certificates (attested)
• Proof of relevant work experience
• Passing the applicable licensing examination (DHA, MOHAP, or equivalent, depending on your profession and jurisdiction)
• Good standing certificate / character reference from your previous employer or licensing body
• Valid passport and other standard identity documents

Requirements vary depending on your specific role and which authority governs your practice location PROBIZ confirms the exact requirements for your profession before you begin preparing documents.

Our Process — Step by Step

1. Eligibility assessment — we review your qualifications and confirm which authority and licensing pathway applies to you
2. Document preparation & attestation — degree certificates and experience letters are prepared and attested as required
3. Exam registration & coordination — if a licensing exam applies to your profession, we help you register and prepare the required documentation
4. License application & approval — we submit your application and follow up with the relevant authority through to approval

Medical License Cost in Dubai

Costs vary depending on your profession, the licensing authority involved, and whether exam fees apply. PROBIZ provides a transparent, itemized breakdown before you begin the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a medical license and a clinic license?

A medical license authorizes an individual healthcare professional to practice; a clinic license authorizes a business to operate a medical facility. Most clinics need both — a licensed facility and licensed practitioners working within it.

Do I need to pass an exam to get licensed in the UAE?

Many healthcare professions require passing a licensing exam through DHA, MOHAP, or the relevant authority, depending on your role and location. PROBIZ confirms whether this applies to your specific profession.

Can I transfer my medical license if I change employers in the UAE?

In many cases, yes, though the exact process depends on your authority and profession. PROBIZ can guide you through the transfer requirements.

How long does it take to get a medical license in the UAE?

Timelines vary depending on document attestation, exam scheduling, and authority processing times. PROBIZ can give you a realistic estimate based on your specific profession and situation.

Is DHA or MOHAP the right authority for me?

DHA governs healthcare licensing within Dubai specifically, while MOHAP covers most other emirates. PROBIZ confirms which authority applies based on where you plan to practice.

Do foreign medical qualifications need to be attested?

Yes, degree certificates and relevant qualifications typically need to be attested before submission. PROBIZ assists with this process.