Short answer: In general, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licenses clinicians working in Dubai, the Department of Health (DOH) covers Abu Dhabi, and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) covers the Northern Emirates. Dubai Healthcare City has its own authority. Your workplace usually decides which applies, so confirm with your employer.
Who licenses whom
The authority you apply to depends mainly on where you will work.
- DHA: Dubai.
- DOH: Abu Dhabi.
- MOHAP: Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
- DHCC: facilities inside Dubai Healthcare City.
How to choose
Start from the job. Ask the employer which authority licenses the facility. If you have flexibility, compare processing steps, exam requirements and timelines on each authority’s official website.
What can differ
Authorities may differ in documents, verification steps, exam format, passing standards and fees. Do not assume that preparing for one exam fully covers another.
Use the eligibility checker
Meddex’s eligibility checker helps you see what you are likely to need for each authority, and points you to the official sources for the final word.
Related guide
For the meaning of terms such as Sheryan, PSV and eligibility ID, see the DHA and EMREE glossary.
Frequently asked questions
This article is general educational guidance, not official advice. Exam rules, fees and timelines are set by the Dubai Health Authority and the test provider and can change, so always confirm the latest details on their official channels.
Last updated .