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DHA Facility Licensing Services in Dubai for Healthcare Investors
- 100% tailored for hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and specialized centers
- Full compliance with Dubai Health Authority (DHA) regulations
- Complete support from application to final activation
Overview of DHA Facility Licensing in Dubai
Dubai’s healthcare sector is experiencing rapid growth, with the number of licensed facilities increasing from 3,431 in 2019 to 5,020 by March 2024, representing a 46% rise over five years. However, to be a part of the growing healthcare sector, all healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, fertility centers, TCAM facilities, and care homes, need to fulfill the DHA application process. To get it done smoothly, you need a trade license, Makani number, equipment list, Civil Defense approval, and NABIDH-linked EMR systems. Licensing done through the Sheryan Portal takes 10 days, setup takes 1 to 6 months, and activation takes 1-2 days on average. The total cost ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 40,000, depending on different factors including license and facility type, the jurisdiction, and many more.
Why Choose Felix Happich Consultancy
We specialize in healthcare, medical, and pharmaceutical licensing, offering unmatched expertise in navigating UAE regulations.
100% Tailored Solutions
From single clinics to hospitals
10+ Years
Combined UAE licensing expertise
100% Satisfaction
Delivering faster approvals with minimal rejections
Our DHA Licensing Services
Our consultants manage the entire DHA facility licensing process end-to-end:
Unlock the Benefits of DHA Facility Licensing
- Access
- Streamlined
- Compliant
A DHA facility license connects you to Dubai’s thriving healthcare ecosystem, trusted by patients, insurers, and global investors.
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Customized DHA Licensing Strategies for You
Every facility setup is unique. Whether you’re opening a boutique clinic or a hospital network, we design a customized licensing roadmap tailored to DHA regulations and your business model.
FAQs – DHA Facility Licensing
Who regulates healthcare facility licensing in Dubai?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) regulates all healthcare facilities in Dubai through the Sheryan Portal.
Which facilities require DHA approval?
Hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, diagnostic centers, fertility centers, TCAM facilities, and care homes.
What are the key requirements for a DHA facility license in Dubai?
To obtain a DHA facility license, investors and operators must meet several regulatory requirements set by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). These include:
A valid Dubai trade license issued under the correct activity for healthcare services.
A registered Makani number (location code for the facility premises).
A complete and DHA-approved equipment list that matches the scope of services.
Civil Defense approval for building safety, fire safety, and emergency compliance.
Full integration with NABIDH (National Backbone for Integrated Dubai Health), ensuring the facility’s EMR system is connected to Dubai’s centralized digital health record platform.
Additional requirements may apply depending on the facility type, such as FANR clearance for radiology services or municipality approvals for construction and engineering layouts.
How long does DHA facility licensing take?
The timeline varies depending on the type and complexity of the healthcare facility.
Application review: DHA typically processes the initial application in ~10 business days through the Sheryan Portal.
Facility setup: Preparing the physical premises, obtaining Civil Defense clearance, and installing approved equipment takes 1–6 months on average. A small clinic may be ready in weeks, while hospitals or multi-specialty centers can take longer.
Final activation: Once all approvals are in place, DHA activates the license within 1–2 business days.
Delays may occur if documents are incomplete, the EMR system is not NABIDH-compliant, or inspections identify deficiencies.
How much does DHA facility licensing cost?
The total cost depends on the facility type, license category, and regulatory requirements.
Average range: AED 5,000 – 40,000
Factors influencing costs:
Facility type (clinic vs. hospital vs. pharmacy)
Number of specialties offered
Engineering layout approvals and modifications
Additional permits such as FANR for radiology or special pharmacy approvals
Technology integration with NABIDH-compliant EMR
Annual renewal fees are also charged and vary by facility type.
How long is a DHA facility license valid?
A DHA facility license is valid for 1 year. To maintain compliance:
Renewal applications must be submitted before expiry.
Operators must provide updated documents (such as tenancy contracts, trade license renewals, or updated staff lists).
Renewal fees must be paid on time.
Failure to renew on schedule can result in penalties, suspension, or closure of the facility.
Do staff also need DHA licenses?
Yes. A facility license covers the healthcare entity itself but does not allow staff to practice unless they hold individual DHA professional licenses.
Every doctor, nurse, pharmacist, technician, and allied health professional must be licensed by DHA.
Staff licensing requires Primary Source Verification (PSV), passing DHA exams (if applicable), and employer activation within the licensed facility.
Facilities are responsible for ensuring that all healthcare professionals employed are duly licensed.
This dual system – facility + professional licensing – ensures both the institution and the practitioners meet DHA’s strict standards for safety, quality, and compliance.