The Department of Health (DOH) in Abu Dhabi is responsible for regulating all healthcare activities in the emirate. It ensures that every professional and facility meets the required standards of safety and quality. Getting a DOH license is the first step to legally working or operating in Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector.
This guide provides a clear explanation of the DOH licensing process in simple steps. It covers all the details you should know to get your license successfully.
What Is a Department of Health (DOH) License?
A DOH license is an official approval from the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi. It allows healthcare professionals and medical facilities to operate legally within the emirate. The license confirms that they meet the required medical, ethical, and safety standards set by the DOH.
Anyone who provides healthcare services in Abu Dhabi must have a valid DOH license. This includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and other allied health professionals. Clinics, hospitals, laboratories, and pharmacies also need separate facility licenses to run their operations.
The main purpose of the DOH license is to protect patients and maintain high-quality healthcare. It ensures that only qualified professionals and well-equipped facilities serve the public. Without this license, no individual or organization can legally offer medical services in Abu Dhabi.
Types of DOH Licenses in Abu Dhabi
DOH issues two main types of healthcare licenses. Each serves a different purpose, but both are required to ensure safe and high-quality healthcare services in the emirate.
- Professional License: This type of license is for individuals working in the medical field. This includes doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other allied health professionals. The DOH checks their qualifications, work experience, and exam results before granting the license. It confirms that the person is trained and approved to practice in Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system.
- Facility License: A Facility License is for healthcare centers such as hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and laboratories. It allows these facilities to legally operate within Abu Dhabi. To get this license, the applicant must meet DOH standards for design, safety, equipment, and staffing. Inspections are carried out to make sure everything meets the required healthcare regulations.
Both types of medical licenses are important for keeping healthcare services legal and trustworthy. A professional cannot practice without a valid license, and a facility cannot operate without DOH approval. Together, they help protect patients and maintain strong healthcare standards in Abu Dhabi.
Requirements to Get a DOH License in Abu Dhabi
To get a license from the DOH, applicants must meet specific eligibility and regulatory requirements. DOH license requirements make sure that healthcare professionals and facilities maintain the highest standards.
1. Educational and Experience Requirements
Applicants must hold a recognized qualification in their field, such as medicine, nursing, or pharmacy, from an accredited institution. The DOH reviews all applications under the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) framework to confirm eligibility. Most categories also require recent clinical experience, typically one to two years after graduation or internship.
2. Document Verification and Professional Conduct
All academic and experience documents must go through Primary Source Verification (PSV) using the DataFlow system to confirm authenticity. A valid Good Standing Certificate from the applicant’s previous medical authority is also required to prove a clean professional history.
3. Language and Practice Requirements
Professionals may need to show English language proficiency through exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or OET. Those returning to practice after a career break might also need to complete specific Continuing Medical Education (CME) or training hours before reapplying.
4. Facility Compliance
For facility licenses, the applicant must meet DOH standards for design, construction, safety, and staffing. The process involves two stages: Preliminary Approval and Final License. Facilities must pass inspections to confirm full compliance before opening.
5. Post-Licensing Obligations
Once approved, professionals and facilities must renew their licenses regularly and continue following DOH regulations. Maintaining accurate records, qualified staff, and safety standards is essential for keeping the license active.
Steps to Get a DOH License for Healthcare Professionals
Obtaining a DOH license may seem complex, but it becomes easier when followed step by step. Here’s how professionals and healthcare facilities can complete the process smoothly.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Start by reviewing the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) on the DOH website. It explains the minimum education, experience, and license history needed for each healthcare role. Make sure your degree and experience match the criteria before applying.
Step 2: Create an Account on TAMM or DOH Portal
All applications are submitted online through the TAMM platform or the DOH e-licensing portal. You’ll need a UAE PASS account to log in and begin the process.
Step 3: Submit Documents for Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Upload your degree, license, and experience letters to the DataFlow system for verification. This confirms that all your documents are genuine and valid. Only verified documents move to the next stage.
Step 4: Apply for the DOH Exam
If required for your specialty, schedule and pass the DOH exam. It tests your professional knowledge and ensures you meet Abu Dhabi’s medical standards.
Step 5: Submit License Application
After verification and exams, submit your official license application through the DOH portal. Include all verified documents, your Good Standing Certificate, and pay the required application fees.
Step 6: Facility Licensing (if applicable)
For clinics, hospitals, or pharmacies, apply for a Facility License. The process includes design approval, inspection, and compliance with DOH safety and staffing standards. You must receive Preliminary Approval before final inspection and permanent licensing.
Step 7: Receive and Activate Your License
Once approved, your DOH license will be issued digitally. Professionals can start working only after activation by their employer. Facilities can begin operations once the final license is granted.
Step 8: Renewal and Continuous Compliance
Licenses must be renewed periodically through the same portal. Keep your documents, CME hours, and facility standards updated to avoid delays or penalties.
Documents Required to Obtain a DOH License
To verify your professional eligibility under the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR), you must submit the following documents:
- Educational Certificates: Attested degree, diploma, or vocational qualification relevant to your profession.
- Equivalency Certificate: Issued by the UAE Ministry of Education to confirm your foreign qualification’s recognition in the UAE.
- Experience Certificates: Letters from previous employers detailing your job title, duration of employment, and key responsibilities.
- Professional License or Membership (if applicable): For regulated professions such as engineering, medicine, or accounting.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting your academic background, skills, and professional achievements.
- Passport Copy: A valid copy of your passport for identification.
- Visa Copy: Current UAE visa page, if applicable.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent photos that meet official application standards.
- Attestation Documents: Verification of all educational and professional certificates by relevant authorities in both your home country and the UAE.
- Language Proficiency Certificate (if required): For some roles, proof of English or Arabic language proficiency may be necessary.
DOH Licensing Fees and Renewal
Applying for a DOH license in Abu Dhabi involves specific fees and renewal requirements. The cost depends on the type of professional license. For example, doctors usually pay around AED 850 for one year and AED 1,600 for two years. Nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals pay between AED 200 and AED 300 depending on their category and duration.
Licenses are typically valid for one to two years. They should be renewed before the expiry date to avoid fines or suspension. Facilities must renew their license within 30 days after expiry, or a 25% late fee per month may apply for up to six months. Regular renewal helps maintain compliance with DOH standards and ensures uninterrupted practice in Abu Dhabi.
Common Reasons for DOH License Rejection
Many applications get delayed or rejected because of small errors that can be avoided. Some common issues include:
- Submitting incomplete or unverified documents
- Providing incorrect experience details or outdated Good Standing Certificates
- Failing to meet the minimum Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR)
- Missing the DOH exam or not achieving the required score
- Delayed response during Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Double-check all your information before submitting the application. Keeping documents accurate and up to date saves time and helps you get approved faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a DOH medical license in Abu Dhabi?
A DOH medical license is an official approval from the Department of Health Abu Dhabi that allows healthcare professionals to work and provide services legally within the emirate.
2. Why is a health license important for healthcare professionals in Abu Dhabi?
A valid health license proves that a professional meets the standards set by Abu Dhabi’s healthcare regulations. It ensures that only qualified individuals can practice healthcare in Abu Dhabi safely and legally.
3. How does the DOH license application process work?
Applicants must register on the DOH e-licensing portal, submit verified documents, pass the required assessments, and await approval from DOH officials. Once reviewed, the license is activated for professional use.
4. Who needs to pass the DOH license exam?
Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals who want to practice in Abu Dhabi must pass the DOH license exam to demonstrate their qualifications and knowledge of healthcare standards.
5. Can I work in Abu Dhabi without a valid DOH license?
No. Practicing healthcare in Abu Dhabi without a valid DOH license is not allowed. Every healthcare professional must hold an active license to work legally in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
6. What is the difference between a DHA license and a DOH license Abu Dhabi?
A DHA license allows professionals to work in Dubai’s healthcare sector, while a DOH license Abu Dhabi applies specifically to those who wish to work across Abu Dhabi under the Department of Health.
7. How can I check the status of my license on the DOH website?
You can track your application and license status via the official website of the DOH or the DOH e-licensing portal by logging in with your registered account.
8. How often should license be renewed in Abu Dhabi?
Most licenses must be renewed every one to two years through the DOH e-licensing system. This ensures compliance with healthcare regulations and keeps your license active.
9. What happens after I receive my license from the Department of Health Abu Dhabi?
After approval, your license allows you to start working once activated by your employer. Holding a DOH license is mandatory to practice healthcare legally in Abu Dhabi.
10. How can healthcare professionals build a career in the healthcare sector?
By meeting the requirements for a DOH license in the UAE, professionals can build a long-term healthcare career in Abu Dhabi, benefiting from world-class facilities and strong health authority support.
