The Ultimate Guide to UAE Nursing Licensure: DHA, DOH, and MOHAP Explained
The pathway to becoming a nurse in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is unique because the country has three distinct licensing authorities. Unlike other countries with a single national board, in the UAE, you must obtain a license from the specific authority governing the Emirate where you intend to work.
The process is heavily reliant on a credential verification agency (DataFlow) and a standardized licensing exam (Prometric).
🇦🇪 The 3 Regulatory Authorities
| Regulatory Authority | Emirate Covered |
| Dubai Health Authority (DHA) | Dubai |
| Department of Health (DOH) / HAAD | Abu Dhabi |
| Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) | Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, UAQ |
The steps below outline the general process applicable to all three authorities.
Phase 1: Qualification & Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Before you can be approved to take the licensing exam, the UAE health authority must verify that your academic and professional credentials are authentic.
| Step | Action | Key Requirement |
| 1. Check Eligibility | Review the PQR (Professional Qualifications Requirements) for your specific authority. Generally, you need a BSN and 2 years of clinical experience. | PQR Document Dictates minimum education and experience levels for titles like “Registered Nurse.” |
| 2. Initiate DataFlow (PSV) | Create an account with DataFlow Group, the verified third-party agency. Upload your degree, transcripts, license, and experience letters. | Primary Source Verification DataFlow contacts your university and employers directly. Process takes 4–8 weeks. |
| 3. Receive Eligibility Letter | Once DataFlow is successful and your application is reviewed, the regulator grants you an Eligibility Letter. | Exam Approval This letter is mandatory to book your Prometric exam. |
Phase 2: Licensing Examination (Prometric)
This phase involves proving your clinical competence by passing the mandatory computer-based test (CBT).
| Step | Action | Key Requirement |
| 4. Pass the Prometric Exam | Book the Prometric CBT for your specific regulator (DHA, DOH, or MOHAP). This tests your knowledge against GCC standards. | Prometric Test Center Can be taken globally. Note: Most authorities limit candidates to 3 attempts. |
| 5. Search for a Job | Once you pass the exam and have a positive DataFlow report, your profile is “Active/Eligible.” Hospitals usually require this status before hiring. | Job Search Apply via online portals or recruitment agencies. |
Phase 3: Final License Activation and Entry
The final steps are managed by your employer once they issue a job offer.
| Step | Action | Key Requirement |
| 6. Visa & License Activation | Your employer initiates the employment visa and links your job offer to your licensing file. | Employer Sponsorship License is activated after proof of employment and malpractice insurance is submitted. |
| 7. Practice as an RN | Upon arrival in the UAE, you complete a medical fitness test, and your license is officially printed/issued. | Final License Your legal authorization to practice in that specific Emirate. |
⚠️ Reality Checks: The GCC Experience
1. No Universal License The UAE does not have one single nursing license. A DHA license allows you to work in Dubai. If you want to move to Abu Dhabi later, you must transfer or apply for a DOH license.
2. The Upfront Cost You must personally pay the initial DataFlow fee (often several hundred USD) to start the process. Most employers do not reimburse this pre-hire cost.
3. No PR Pathway Unlike Canada or New Zealand, the UAE offers renewable work permits but currently does not have a Permanent Residency (PR) pathway for most foreign nurses. Your stay is tied to your employment contract.
Comments (0)