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Working as a pharmacist in Dubai requires a medical license from the DHA, the healthcare authority responsible for maintaining the emirate’s healthcare sector according to global standards. The compulsion of the license is based on the Federal Law No. (5) of 1984 of the UAE, which aims to protect public health by ensuring that only qualified and licensed pharmacists work in the emirate as they handle medications safely and ethically.
To get a license, you have to first make sure that you meet the DHA eligibility criteria. The criteria are mostly based on education, experience, and professional standing. Once you find yourself eligible then you have to select the type of license you need based on your role and position.
Depending on the type of license you choose, there are different types of requirements. However, you have to pass the DHA exam (Prometric exam) for every type of license you need. Only the UAE Nationals and Children of Emirati Women are exempted from this examination as per the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements from DHA.
Once you complete all the above steps, the actual process of getting a DHA license gets easier. First, you get registered online, submit documents, and then either sit for a Prometric exam or get credential approval. It usually takes about three to six months from start to finish. However, following a systematic approach can reduce the time required.
The cost of the license also varies for different types of licenses. Expect fees between AED 4,500 and AED 6,000 based on the services you choose and the number of exams needed. Additionally, you have to pay a license renewal fee each year, which is about 3000 AED.
In this article, I will explain every part of the DHA licensing journey. You will learn the main requirements, the types of licenses available, costs, processing times, and renewal rules. I will also talk about reasons for license rejection and how to handle disqualification. If you want to work legally and safely in Dubai as a pharmacist, reading this guide will save you a lot of stress.
What are the eligibility criteria for pharmacists to obtain a DHA medical license in Dubai?
The eligibility criteria for pharmacists to obtain a DHA medical license in Dubai include having an accredited BPharm, MPharm, or PharmD degree, with at least two (2) years of post-graduation experience in a retail or hospital setting. A valid license, a good standing certificate, and Primary Source Verification (PSV) are also required by the DHA. The following are key eligibility checks to ensure you can get a license from DHA as a pharmacist.
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) required. Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) or Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) may also be accepted. The degree must be from an allowed institution.
- At least two (2) years post-graduation experience in a retail or hospital pharmacy. Experience in pharmaceutical sales is usually not accepted.
- Must hold a valid pharmacist license or registration from the home country or last place of employment.
- A Good Standing Certificate is required from the relevant pharmacy council or licensing authority to prove a clean professional record.
What are the DHA license requirements for pharmacists in Dubai?
The requirements for a DHA license for a pharmacist in Dubai include a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy or a PharmD, and often two years of post-qualification experience. Additionally, the specialized roles like Clinical Pharmacist or Specialized Pharmacist may have additional qualifications like a residency or postgraduate specialization, sometimes waiving experience requirements. The detailed requirements are provided below:
Qualification:
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Pharmacy
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD).
Experience:
Exemption for experience is also available for Clinical Pharmacists who have passed the GPhC exams (UK) or registered with the NABP (USA). However, one thing to consider is that experience in pharmaceutical sales or with pharmaceutical companies is not considered professional experience. The table below shows a detailed overview of each professional.
| Qualification | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| BSc in Pharmacy | At least two years post-qualification experience in the relevant sector. |
| PharmD | Minimum of two (2) years post-qualification experience, including at least six (6) months in a hospital setting. |
| Clinical Pharmacy Residency (minimum two (2) years) | No additional experience required if residency is completed. |
| Pharmacy Diploma (minimum two (2) years) | Minimum of two (2) years post-qualification experience. |
Documents Required:
- Passport copy
- Recent passport-size photo
- Educational qualification(s)
- Internship certificate (if applicable)
- Work experience certificate(s)
- Valid license/registration
- Good Standing Certificate (not older than 6 months)
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Updated CV
- Primary Source Verification receipts
- Exam result or exemption proof (if available)
What are the types of DHA medical licenses for pharmacists?
The types of DHA medical licenses for pharmacists are Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmacist, Pharmacy Technician, and many more. These types are based on the role of the pharmacist and their specialization. Some of the types from the list of different types of licesne for pharmacist as per the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) are provided below.
- Pharmacist
- Clinical Pharmacist
- Pharmacy Technician
- Pharmacist – Compounding Pharmacy
- Pharmacist – Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacist – Drug Information
- Pharmacist – Ambulatory Care
- Pharmacist – Clinical Pharmacology
What is the process for obtaining a DHA medical license as a pharmacist in Dubai?
The process of obtaining a DHA Medical license as a pharmacist in Dubai starts with meeting academic, professional, and experience requirements, followed by document verification and a licensing exam. Once you meet all DHA requirements, you must follow step-by-step actions—register on the Sheryan portal, upload the required documents, pass the exam, submit the fee, and obtain the authorized license. The detailed process is given below:
DHA Pharmacist License Process
The process of obtaining a DHA license follows a similar format for most types of professional licenses. However, the specific requirements and listed documents vary by profession. As a pharmacist, you must follow the steps below to become licensed by the DHA.
- Create an Account and get registered on the Sheryan DHA portal.
- Upload all the required Documents, including personal, academic, and professional documents.
- Complete Primary Source Verification (PSV) by sending your documents to DataFlow Group.
- Apply for the Exam and pass the DHA Prometric exam (unless exempt).
- Credentialing Assessment by reviewing your qualifications, experience, and PSV results through DHA.
- Receive the Eligibility Letter once you pass the review and exam.
- Secure a Job Offer in Dubai that is willing to sponsor you as a licensed health facility.
- Applies for License Activation by submitting a request through their Sheryan account.
- Receive the DHA License that is issued and linked to the sponsoring facility.
How much time is required for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA medical license?
The time required for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA Medical License in Dubai is around 1-3 months (4-12 weeks or 30-90 days). The time required depends on how well you are prepared for the process, and also it depends on the DHA exam attempts. However, based on Years of experience Felix Happich team has made an estimated time frame which is enough to get you acquired a pharmacy license.
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Document Preparation | 1–2 weeks |
| DataFlow Verification (PSV) | 3–4 weeks |
| DHA Exam Scheduling | 1–2 days (scheduling) |
| DHA Exam +result | 1-2 weeks |
| License Application | 1-2 weeks working days |
| Total Time Required | 6 to 10 weeks |
How much does it cost for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA medical license?
The cost for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA medical license in Dubai ranges from 4500 AED to 6000 AED. It depends on various factors such as document verification requirements and exam attempts. The table below shows the major price points that collectively add up to 95% of the cost.
| Step | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 200 |
| Primary Source Verification (PSV) | 935 |
| DHA Exam Fee | 500-1000 |
| License Activation Fee | 1000-3000 |
| Additional Costs | 1000 – 3000 |
What is the validity period of a DHA medical license for a pharmacist?
The validity period of a DHA Medical License for a Pharmacist is one year (365 days), which means that you have to renew the license. You have to apply 3 months before the expiry date as per the DHA official portal, and if you fail to do so, then you will be fined as per Federal Law No. (6) of 2023. Additionally, if you do not renew your license within 6 months after the expiry date, your license will be cancelled, and you will have to start a new procedure again.
What are the limitations for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA medical license?
The limitations for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA medical license are based on qualification, experience, and clinical relevance. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has set strict eligibility standards for a license with specific limitations. These limitations ensure that only clinically qualified, actively practicing professionals with verifiable credentials and adequate training are licensed by DHA. Three of these limitations are provided below.
- Experience in pharmaceutical companies or as sales representatives is not accepted
- Maximum of 3 attempts across authorities, with one final retry in a different Authority
- A Good Standing Certificate (GSC) must be valid and less than 6 months old at the time of application.
Can a pharmacist with a DHA license work in other emirates?
No, a pharmacist with a DHA license cannot work in other emirates, as each emirate is operated by a specific health authority that approves healthcare professionals regarding their services. However, you can transfer your license from one authority to another after receiving approval from the respective healthcare authorities. For instance, if you want to work in Abu Dhabi with a DHA license, you must obtain additional approval from the Department of Health (DOH) in Abu Dhabi.
What are the reasons for the rejection of a pharmacist’s DHA license in Dubai?
The reasons for the rejection of a pharmacist’s DHA license in Dubai include failing the DHA exam, submitting incorrect documents, and ignoring the eligibility criteria. I know these errors are common but preventable. Some of these reasons are provided below, which you can avoid to get away from facing delays or rejections.
- Failing to Pass the DHA Exam
- Not Following Up on the Application Status
- Misunderstanding DHA License Fees
- Choosing the Wrong Recruitment Agency
- Submitting Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation
- Ignoring Eligibility Criteria
- Forgetting to Renew Your License
- Neglecting Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
What is the process for a pharmacist disqualified from obtaining a DHA medical license?
The pharmacist must first identify the reasons for rejection through a technical analysis of the application form if he or she has been rejected by the DHA. Once the reason is identified, the next step is to address it and get the final approval. Some common cases, along with the best way to approach them to solve, are outlined below.
Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Review all submitted documents, correct any errors, and upload missing files through the DHA Sheryan portal.
Unrecognized Educational Qualification
Enroll in a recognized bridging program or submit your degree for equivalency through the UAE’s official channels before reapplying.
Failed DHA Exam
Prepare using DHA-approved study materials or training courses, then reapply for the exam after the waiting period. You cannot appear for the DHA exam again if you fail three times. However, you can apply for the DOH or MOHAP exam as a final opportunity to work in the UAE.
Expert consultation for a pharmacist to obtain a DHA medical license
As a pharmacist, if you are trying to get your DHA medical license but are not sure where to start, it’s a common struggle. Many pharmacists we’ve worked with get stuck at different steps; some fail the exam, others don’t meet the criteria, and a few just miss small but important details in the paperwork.
At Felix Happich Consultancy, we provide a detailed overview of what to do and how to do it to complete the process quickly and with minimal expense. In short, we help you get the process done the right way, from step one to the final stage of license approval.
