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Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is a government body that manages and improves healthcare services in Dubai. It was established in 2007 by Shaikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It regulates medical services through a standardized licensing process, effective examination, and a strict monitoring system.
DHA not only welcomes new medical professionals but also assesses the fitness of already settled medical experts by requiring a fitness test for those above 65 years of age. Additionally, it has different laws and legal procedures, making the healthcare model a symbol of care and safety.
Dubai Health Authority offers a wide range of services including public health awareness, digitalized health records, and an emergency response system. Not only that, but it also oversees all the sectors related to the medical section, including providing medical licenses.
The authority also provides job opportunities in Dubai’s growing healthcare sector, a standard living environment, and continuous professional development to medical experts for quality patient care.
What is DHA in Dubai?
The DHA is the official healthcare regulatory body in Dubai, responsible for regulating and supervising the health sector. As its name (Dubai Health Authority) indicates, it is a health-related authority that establishes rules and regulations for the medical sector and monitors hospitals and clinics throughout the emirate to ensure they meet quality standards.
Who established DHA in Dubai?
The DHA was established in Dubai in 2007 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum under Law No. 13 of 2007, as part of Dubai’s 2015 strategic plan to regulate and supervise the healthcare sector in the Emirate.
Where is the DHA headquarter in Dubai?
The DHA (Dubai Health Authority) headquarters is located at Sheikh Ahmed Square, Al Jaddaf, near Latifa Hospital, opposite Wafi Mall in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The location is considered a hub for healthcare, culture, and residential development. The address of DHA is P.O. Box 1853, Dubai, UAE.
What is the purpose of establishing DHA in Dubai?
The purpose of establishing DHA is to ensure well-organized, high-quality healthcare services that improve the standard of living. It is committed to building a world-class healthcare infrastructure, supporting medical innovation, and aligning with global health standards. Some of the key commitments the DHA has made on its official portal include:
- Regulate the health sector
- Promote community health
- Implement Management System
- Consider the organizational context
- Improve system effectiveness
- Provide resources, support
- Ensure health, safety
- Protect the environment
- Improve business resilience
- Safeguard information assets
Who regulates DHA in Dubai?
The government of Dubai regulates DHA, with the authority distributed within the DHA among the Director General, the executive team, and healthcare professionals. The government has made several laws, including the Dubai Health Authority Law ( Law No 13 of 2007 and Federal Law No 10 of 2008. Below are some worthy laws that contribute to the overall operational management of DHA.
- Dubai Health Authority Law ( Law No 13 of 2007
- Federal Law No. 10 of 2008
- UAE Federal Law No. 14 of 2014
- Law No. 11 of 2013 – Mandatory Health Insurance
Other than this, the Director General is responsible for overseeing the overall healthcare strategy and operations. The executive team manages medical services such as licensing and insurance. On the other hand, healthcare professionals support the overall structure by managing employees and patients within hospitals.
What are the rules and regulations of DHA?
DHA has a comprehensive set of regulations, with each regulating a specific sector to ensure the safety and quality of healthcare services in Dubai. It has separate regulatory standards for licensing, clinical operations, and hospital infrastructure. For a detailed overview of these regulations, you can visit the DHA official website.
Regulation for Healthcare Licensing:
To regulate the licensing process, DHA has a clear and strategic framework. These regulations ensure the selection of the most deserving candidates for medical services in Dubai. Moreover, the authority has rules for evaluating the fitness of selected candidates at specific intervals. Seven of these rules and regulations are:
- Valid professional qualification
- Verified work experience
- Passed the Prometric examination
- Primary source verification (PSV)
- Good standing certificate
- Medical fitness assessment
- Malpractice insurance coverage
What services does DHA provide?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) delivers structured, regulated, and patient-focused healthcare services across Dubai. I focus here on the core solution DHA provides: centralized healthcare oversight through licensing, regulation, treatment access, and digital integration. DHA operates through a rules-based framework that supports both healthcare professionals and patients. It ensures the delivery of safe, effective, and timely medical care. The main services provided by DHA are
Healthcare Professional Licensing
Verifies qualifications, experience, and exam results to license doctors, nurses, and allied health staff.
Healthcare Facility Licensing
Approves and monitors hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers to meet regulatory standards.
Primary Source Verification (PSV) and Exams
Authenticates credentials via DataFlow and assesses clinical knowledge through Prometric exams.
Health Regulation and Compliance
Conducts audits, inspections, and manages malpractice investigations to ensure safe medical practices.
Digital Health Systems
Operates platforms like Salama, NABIDH, and eClaimLink for electronic records, data sharing, and insurance processing.
Public Health and Disease Prevention
Runs vaccination programs, health screenings, and disease surveillance for community health protection.
Medical Tourism Services (DXH)
Facilitates international patient care, offering access to DHA-approved hospitals and wellness centers.
Why is DHA important in Dubai’s healthcare system?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is important in Dubai as it issues licenses to professionals and monitors healthcare facilities. This way it provides a safe and reliable healthcare system for the emirate. DHA ensures that every doctor, nurse, and clinic operates as per the healthcare industry standards. Through systems like Salama, NABIDH, and eClaimLink, DHA improves the accuracy of treatment records and speeds up insurance approvals.
It also regulates public health programs, including vaccinations, screenings, and disease surveillance. These efforts reduce risks and improve the overall quality of care.
- Standardized Licensing
- Facility Oversight
- Patient Safety
- Digital Innovation
- Public Health Management
- Insurance Control
- Global Recognition
How can a healthcare professional register with DHA?
Registering with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is a mandatory step for any healthcare professional aiming to work legally in Dubai. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, technician, or therapist, you must obtain a DHA license before joining a healthcare facility. This licensing process ensures that only qualified, experienced, and competent professionals can practice, protecting public health and maintaining international standards.
The DHA uses a digital system called Sheryan to manage all applications, verifications, and approvals. Each applicant must meet specific education and experience requirements set by the Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR). Additional verification, such as Primary Source Verification (PSV) through Dataflow and passing the DHA Prometric exam (if required), confirms the authenticity of credentials. This step-by-step system ensures that every healthcare provider is accountable and fully prepared to deliver safe and effective care within Dubai’s regulated medical environment.
Create a Sheryan Account
Check Eligibility
Submit Required Documents
Complete Dataflow Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Pass the DHA Exam (if required)
Pay Fees and Await Approval
Activate Your License
What are DHA’s initiatives in research and innovation?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is committed to driving advancements in healthcare through research and innovation. By fostering a culture of innovation, DHA aims to enhance the quality of healthcare services, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to global health knowledge. The authority has launched various initiatives designed to promote medical research, integrate new technologies, and support the development of the healthcare sector. Programs like the Mawaheb Smart Platform aim to advance medical education and foster innovation, while the NABIDH platform enhances data coordination across the healthcare system. DHA also leads ethical and scientific research through initiatives like the Dubai Scientific Research Ethics Committee (DSREC), ensuring that healthcare research adheres to the highest standards. These efforts, alongside strategic collaborations and initiatives like the Dubai Medical Research Forum, position DHA at the forefront of global healthcare innovation, improving both local and international medical practices.
DHA’s initiatives in research and innovation:
- Mawaheb Smart Platform
- AWTAAD Initiative
- NABIDH Platform
- Dubai Medical Research Forum 2024
- Dubai Scientific Research Ethics Committee (DSREC)
What opportunities does the DHA offer for practicing healthcare in Dubai?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) offers diverse opportunities for healthcare professionals to practice in Dubai. Through licensing, medical facility operations, research initiatives, and participation in public health programs, DHA creates a conducive environment for professionals to grow. Additionally, DHA promotes Dubai as a medical tourism destination, offering healthcare providers the chance to serve both local and international patients while advancing their skills through continuous education and training opportunities.
- Licensing Opportunities: DHA provides licensing for a wide range of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and specialists.
- Medical Facility Operation: Healthcare providers can open and operate clinics, hospitals, and other medical facilities under DHA’s regulations.
- Research and Innovation: DHA supports research initiatives and provides opportunities for professionals to engage in cutting-edge healthcare research.
- Medical Tourism: DHA encourages the development of Dubai as a medical tourism hub, offering opportunities for healthcare professionals to cater to international patients.
- Continuing Education and Training: DHA facilitates professional development through various training programs and certifications to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals.
- Public Health Programs: Healthcare professionals can participate in citywide initiatives such as vaccination programs, health screenings, and disease prevention campaigns.
