The DHA Exam stands for the Dubai Health Authority Exam. It is a mandatory licensing examination for doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals who want to legally work in Dubai, UAE. The exam is conducted by Prometric in a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) format and is administered through the DHA Sheryan portal. Candidates must complete Data Flow verification before booking their exam slot.
What is the DHA Exam? (Simple Explanation)
If you are a healthcare professional in India – a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, dentist, or lab technician – and you want to work in Dubai legally, you must pass the DHA Exam first.
Think of it as a licensing gate. Dubai’s healthcare system is one of the most regulated in the world. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – the government body that controls all healthcare in Dubai – wants to make sure every professional working in its hospitals and clinics meets international quality standards.
The DHA Exam tests your clinical knowledge, professional skills, and understanding of UAE healthcare regulations. Pass the exam, complete all verification steps, and you earn your DHA License – which gives you the legal right to practice medicine or healthcare in Dubai.
Also read: SAT Exam 2026: Full Form, Eligibility, Dates, Syllabus, Fees & Preparation Guide
DHA Full Form in Medical Exam
DHA Full Form = Dubai Health Authority
The DHA Exam full form is the Dubai Health Authority Examination. It should not be confused with:
- DHCC – Dubai Healthcare City Authority (different regulatory body)
- DOH – Department of Health, Abu Dhabi (governs Abu Dhabi, not Dubai)
- MOH – Ministry of Health UAE (governs Northern Emirates)
Important: If you plan to work specifically in Dubai, you need a DHA license. For Abu Dhabi, you need a DOH license. For other Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah), you need a MOH license. These are three different licensing bodies with separate exams.
DHA Exam 2026 – At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Full Name | Dubai Health Authority Examination |
| Governing Body | Dubai Health Authority (DHA) |
| Conducting Body | Prometric Testing Services |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Question Format | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) – 4 options, 1 correct answer |
| Exam Language | English |
| Duration | 2.5 to 3 hours (varies by profession) |
| Passing Score | 60% – 75% (varies by profession and specialty) |
| Result Turnaround | 2 to 5 working days |
| License Validity | 1 year (renewable) |
| Application Portal | DHA Sheryan Portal (sheryan.dha.gov.ae) |
| Exam Availability | Year-round (no fixed calendar) |
| Who Must Take It | Doctors, Nurses, Dentists, Pharmacists, Allied Health Professionals |
Read Also: Top 10 Toughest Exams in India
DHA Exam Eligibility 2026
Before you register for the DHA Exam, you must meet these eligibility requirements. The Dubai Health Authority checks all credentials through the DataFlow Primary Source Verification process.
Academic Qualification
Candidates must hold a recognized healthcare degree relevant to their profession:
- Doctors (General Practitioners / Specialists): MBBS or equivalent medical degree
- Nurses: BSc Nursing or Diploma in Nursing from a recognized institution
- Dentists: BDS or equivalent dental degree
- Pharmacists: B.Pharm or Pharm.D degree
- Allied Health Professionals: Relevant diploma or degree (e.g., B.Sc. MLT for lab technicians, B.Sc. Radiology for radiographers)
Work Experience
- Doctors: Minimum 2 years of post-internship clinical experience
- Nurses: Minimum 2 years of post-qualification nursing experience
- Pharmacists: Minimum 2 years of post-qualification pharmacy practice
- Allied Health Professionals: Minimum 2 years of relevant clinical experience
Professional License
Candidates must hold a valid professional license or registration from their home country’s regulatory body. For Indian candidates, this means:
- Doctors: Valid MCI/NMC registration
- Nurses: Valid INC (Indian Nursing Council) registration
- Dentists: Valid DCI (Dental Council of India) registration
- Pharmacists: Valid PCI (Pharmacy Council of India) registration
DataFlow Verification
All candidates must complete DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV) – a mandatory background check that verifies your educational degrees, professional license, and employment history directly with the issuing institutions.
- DHA Exam Eligibility Checklist:
Relevant healthcare degree from a recognized university
Minimum 2 years of post-qualification clinical experience
Valid professional license from home country
DataFlow verification initiated or completed
Good Standing Certificate from your medical council
Documents Required for DHA Exam Registration
Collect these documents before starting your DHA Sheryan registration, as they are required at various stages:
- Passport copy (valid, with clear photo page)
- Recent passport-size photograph (white background)
- Educational degree certificates (MBBS, BDS, BSc Nursing, B.Pharm, etc.)
- Transcript or mark sheets
- Internship completion certificate (for doctors)
- Experience certificates from all employers (covering 2+ years)
- Current valid professional license (NMC, INC, DCI, PCI, etc.)
- Good Standing Certificate (GSC) – issued by your medical council
- Logbook or case records (for surgeons and procedure-based specialists)
DHA Exam Registration & Prometric Booking – Step-by-Step Process
Many candidates are confused about the DHA registration process because it involves multiple platforms. Here is the complete step-by-step flow:
Step 1: Self-Assessment on Sheryan Portal
Visit the official DHA Sheryan portal (sheryan.dha.gov.ae). Use the free Self-Assessment Tool to check if your qualifications meet the requirements for your chosen profession/specialty.
Step 2: Create Your DHA Profile
Register on the Sheryan portal using your passport details. You will receive a DHA Unique ID – keep this safe as it tracks your entire application.
Step 3: Initiate DataFlow Verification
Submit your documents for Primary Source Verification (PSV) through DataFlow. This is the most time-consuming step – it typically takes 4 to 8 weeks depending on how quickly your institutions respond to verification requests.
Step 4: Eligibility Approval
Once DataFlow verification is complete and your profile is reviewed, DHA will notify you of your eligibility status via email and on the Sheryan portal.
Step 5: DHA Prometric Exam Booking
After eligibility approval, you will receive a link or authorization to book your exam through Prometric. Log in to the Prometric scheduling system, select your preferred DHA exam centre in India and choose an available date and time.
Step 6: Pay DHA Exam Fees
Pay the DHA exam fee at the payment stage. This is separate from the DataFlow fee, which you would have paid earlier.
Step 7: Appear for the Exam
Visit your selected Prometric test centre on your exam date. Carry your valid passport as ID – no other ID is accepted.
Step 8: Receive Result and Apply for DHA License
Results are posted on the Sheryan portal within 2–5 working days. If you pass, you proceed to DHA License activation by paying the license fee.
Prometric Booking Tip: DHA Prometric exam slots in major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad fill up fast – especially between January and March. Book your slot at least 30–45 days in advance to get your preferred date and location.
DHA Exam Fees 2026 (Complete Breakdown)
DHA exam fees in India are paid in multiple stages – not as a single payment. Here is a clear breakdown of every cost involved:
Stage-Wise Fee Structure
| Payment Stage | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Self-Assessment | Free |
| Manual Review Fee (if applicable) | AED 100 – 200 |
| DataFlow Primary Source Verification | USD 140 – USD 310 (varies by profession) |
| DHA Exam Fee (Prometric) | AED 600 – AED 1,400 (varies by profession) |
| Oral Assessment Fee (if called) | AED 500 – AED 800 |
| License Activation Fee | AED 1,000 – AED 3,000 (varies by profession) |
Total Estimated Cost by Profession
| Profession | Approximate Total Cost (AED) | Approx. INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| General Practitioners / Doctors | AED 3,000 – 3,400 | ₹68,000 – ₹78,000 |
| Dentists | AED 3,200 – 3,600 | ₹73,000 – ₹82,000 |
| Pharmacists | AED 2,800 – 3,200 | ₹64,000 – ₹73,000 |
| Nurses / Midwives | AED 2,200 – 2,600 | ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 |
| Allied Health Professionals | AED 2,000 – 2,500 | ₹46,000 – ₹57,000 |
Note: All fee amounts are estimates based on publicly available information. DHA updates its fee structure periodically. Always verify the latest DHA exam fees on the official Sheryan portal before making payments.
DHA Exam Pattern 2026
The DHA exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted at authorized Prometric centres. All questions are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options and one correct answer. There is no negative marking.
Exam Structure by Profession
| Profession | No. of Questions | Duration | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Practitioners | ~150 MCQs | ~165 minutes | 60% |
| Nurses | ~150 MCQs | ~165 minutes | 60% |
| Dentists | ~150 MCQs | ~180 minutes | 60% |
| Pharmacists | ~120 MCQs | ~165 minutes | 60% |
| Lab Technicians | ~100 MCQs | ~150 minutes | 55% |
| Physiotherapists | ~100 MCQs | ~150 minutes | 55% |
| Radiographers | ~100 MCQs | ~120 minutes | 55% |
Key Point: Some candidates with oral assessment requirements (common for specialist doctors and certain surgical specialties) will be called for an additional face-to-face or video-based oral examination before final eligibility is confirmed.
DHA Exam Syllabus 2026 – Profession-Wise
DHA Exam Syllabus for General Practitioners (Doctors)
The GP syllabus tests broad clinical knowledge across all major medical disciplines:
| Topic Area | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|
| Internal Medicine & Chronic Diseases | 20% |
| Pediatrics & Child Health | 15% |
| Obstetrics & Gynecology | 12% |
| Surgery & Surgical Emergencies | 10% |
| Mental Health & Psychiatry | 8% |
| Dermatology, ENT & Ophthalmology | 8% |
| Preventive Medicine & Public Health | 10% |
| Emergency Medicine & Trauma | 10% |
| Medical Ethics & UAE Healthcare Regulations | 7% |
DHA Exam Syllabus for Nurses
| Topic Area | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|
| Fundamentals of Nursing | 25% |
| Adult Health Nursing | 20% |
| Pediatric Nursing | 18% |
| Maternal & Women’s Health | 15% |
| Nursing Leadership & Unit Management | 22% |
Additional topics: Infection control, medication administration, patient safety protocols, UAE nursing regulations, ICU and critical care basics.
DHA Exam Syllabus for Pharmacists
| Topic Area | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceutical Care & Disease Management | 35% |
| Pharmacy Calculations & Compounding | 15% |
| OTC / Counter Medications | 10% |
| Pharmacy Law, Ethics & UAE Regulations | 10% |
| Pharmacokinetics & Medication Safety | 10% |
| Pediatrics, Geriatrics & Special Populations | 10% |
| Toxicology | 5% |
| Pregnancy & Lactation Pharmacology | 5% |
DHA Exam Syllabus for Dentists
Core topics tested in the DHA dental exam:
- Dental anatomy, radiology, and diagnosis
- Restorative dentistry and endodontics
- Periodontics and oral surgery
- Orthodontics and prosthodontics
- Oral pathology and oral medicine
- Dental emergencies and anesthesia
- Patient safety, sterilization, and dental ethics
- UAE dental regulations and DHA standards
DHA Exam Syllabus for Allied Health Professionals
Lab Technicians: Clinical biochemistry, hematology, blood banking, microbiology (bacteriology, virology, parasitology), immunology, urinalysis, laboratory safety and quality control
Physiotherapists: Musculoskeletal assessment, neurological rehabilitation, cardiopulmonary physiotherapy, pediatric PT, sports injuries, electrotherapy, professional ethics
Radiographers: Radiation physics, radiographic positioning, imaging modalities (X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound), radiation protection, contrast media, radiography ethics
DHA Exam Centres in India 2026
The DHA Prometric exam is conducted at authorized Prometric test centres across India. Candidates can book their preferred centre during the exam scheduling stage on the Prometric portal.
Cities with DHA Prometric exam centres in India:
| City | State |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | Maharashtra |
| Delhi / Gurgaon / Noida | NCR |
| Bengaluru | Karnataka |
| Hyderabad | Telangana |
| Chennai | Tamil Nadu |
| Ahmedabad | Gujarat |
| Trivandrum | Kerala |
| Kochi | Kerala |
| Kolkata | West Bengal |
| Pune | Maharashtra |
Tip: Candidates from smaller cities should book the nearest available centre early. Centre availability varies, and peak slots (January–April) fill up quickly across all cities.
DHA Exam Result 2026
After completing the DHA Prometric exam, here is what happens:
At the test centre: You may receive a brief performance summary sheet from the Prometric staff immediately after the exam. This is an unofficial indicator – not your final result.
Official result: Your DHA exam result is published on the Sheryan portal within 2 to 5 working days. You will also receive an email notification from DHA.
Result format: Results are declared as Pass or Fail. Detailed score reports show performance by subject domain, helping failed candidates identify weak areas.
If you pass: You proceed to DHA License activation by paying the license fee on the Sheryan portal.
If you fail: Candidates are allowed to retake the DHA exam up to 3 times. A mandatory waiting period applies between attempts (typically 30–90 days depending on profession). After 3 failed attempts, candidates may need to undergo additional assessment or training before reapplying.
DHA License Fees 2026
After passing the exam, you need to pay the DHA license activation fee to legally start working in Dubai. License fees vary by profession and the duration of the license you choose.
DHA Professional License Fee Structure
| License Type | Nurses / Allied Health / T&CM | Doctors / Dentists |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time – 1 Year | AED 1,000 | AED 3,000 |
| Full-Time – 2 Years | AED 1,500 | AED 5,000 |
| Full-Time – 3 Years | AED 2,500 | AED 7,500 |
| Part-Time License | AED 1,000 | AED 3,000 |
| Trainee License | AED 1,000 | AED 3,000 |
Pro Tip: If you are confident of a long-term career in Dubai, opting for a 2-year or 3-year DHA license saves money compared to renewing annually. Your employer in Dubai often covers the license fee – confirm this during your job offer negotiation.
DHA Exam Preparation Tips – How to Pass on Your First Attempt
Passing the DHA exam requires structured preparation. Here is a practical strategy used by successful candidates:
1. Start with the Official Blueprint
Download the DHA exam content outline for your profession from the Sheryan portal. This blueprint tells you exactly which topics carry more weight. Do not study everything equally – focus on high-weightage sections first.
2. Use Standard Reference Textbooks
- Doctors: Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, Nelson Pediatrics, Williams Obstetrics
- Nurses: Brunner & Suddarth’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, Potter & Perry Fundamentals
- Pharmacists: Katzung Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Dentists: Shafer’s Textbook of Oral Pathology, Contemporary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
3. Practice MCQs Daily
The DHA exam is MCQ-based, so your MCQ practice speed and accuracy directly determines your result. Target at least 50–100 MCQs per day in the final 6–8 weeks before your exam. Use DHA-specific question banks wherever possible.
4. Take Full-Length Mock Tests
Simulate real exam conditions by taking timed, full-length mock tests at least 3–4 times before your actual exam date. This builds stamina and time management skills for a 2.5 to 3-hour CBT session.
5. Study UAE Healthcare Regulations
Every profession’s DHA exam includes questions on UAE healthcare laws, DHA licensing rules, patient rights, and medical ethics. Many candidates neglect this section – do not. It can be the difference between passing and failing.
6. Prepare 3–4 Months Before Your Exam Date
A realistic preparation timeline for most candidates:
- Month 1: Complete subject-wise revision using textbooks
- Month 2: MCQ practice – subject by subject
- Month 3: Mixed MCQ tests + weak area revision
- Month 4 (final): Full mock exams + UAE regulations + light revision
DHA Exam vs MOH Exam vs DOH Exam – What is the Difference?
Many Indian healthcare professionals are confused about which exam they need. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | DHA Exam | MOH Exam | DOH Exam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Dubai Health Authority | Ministry of Health UAE | Department of Health Abu Dhabi |
| Applicable Emirate | Dubai only | Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, UAQ | Abu Dhabi only |
| Conducting Body | Prometric | Prometric / Pearson VUE | Prometric |
| Exam Format | CBT – MCQs | CBT – MCQs | CBT – MCQs |
| Who Needs It | Healthcare professionals in Dubai | Healthcare professionals in Northern Emirates | Healthcare professionals in Abu Dhabi |
| License Transfer | Possible (with conditions) | Possible (with conditions) | Possible (with conditions) |
Bottom line: If your job offer or employer is in Dubai, you need the DHA Exam. Confirm the emirate before beginning your registration process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the DHA Exam Process
1. Starting DataFlow too late DataFlow verification takes 4–8 weeks. If you start it just before your job joining date, you will miss your deadline. Begin DataFlow as soon as you decide to work in Dubai.
2. Submitting mismatched documents Every name, date, and institution on your documents must match exactly. Even minor discrepancies (e.g., different spellings of your name across certificates) can cause DataFlow to reject your submission.
3. Not booking the Prometric slot early enough Prometric slots for DHA exams in India fill up fast – especially in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Book at least 30–45 days in advance.
4. Ignoring UAE regulations in preparation At least 7–10% of DHA exam questions relate to UAE healthcare laws, patient rights, and DHA-specific rules. Candidates who skip this section often fall just short of the passing score.
5. Choosing the wrong license type (DHA vs DOH vs MOH) Always confirm which emirate your employer is located in before starting the licensing process. Applying for the wrong exam wastes time and money.
Conclusion: Your DHA Exam Roadmap
The DHA Exam is your most important step toward a rewarding healthcare career in Dubai. Here is your complete roadmap in simple steps:
- Check eligibility – degree + 2 years experience + valid license
- Initiate DataFlow – start early, takes 4–8 weeks
- Register on Sheryan – create your DHA profile and upload documents
- Get eligibility approved – wait for DHA confirmation
- Book DHA Prometric exam – select centre, date, and pay fees
- Prepare 3–4 months – MCQs, textbooks, UAE regulations
- Appear and pass – 60%+ score required
- Activate DHA license – pay license fee on Sheryan
- Start your Dubai career – legally authorized to practice
Dubai’s healthcare sector is one of the fastest growing in the world, with consistently high demand for qualified Indian doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals. The DHA Exam – while rigorous – is a well-structured, achievable qualification that opens the door to significantly higher salaries, better infrastructure, and a world-class professional environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About DHA Exam
Q1. What is the DHA exam full form?
The DHA exam full form is Dubai Health Authority Examination – a mandatory licensing test for healthcare professionals seeking to work in Dubai, UAE.
Q2. What is the DHA exam fee in India for 2026?
The total cost of the DHA process ranges from approximately AED 2,000 to AED 3,600 (around ₹46,000 to ₹82,000 INR) depending on your profession. This includes DataFlow verification fees, the Prometric exam fee, and the license activation fee.
Q3. Can I take the DHA exam without a job offer?
Yes. You do not need a job offer to register for or appear in the DHA exam. You can clear the exam and get licensed proactively, which makes you more attractive to Dubai employers.
Q4. How do I book the DHA Prometric exam?
After receiving eligibility approval on the Sheryan portal, you book your exam through the Prometric scheduling system online. Select your preferred Indian city, exam centre, date, and time slot. Pay the exam fee to confirm the booking.
Q5. What is the passing score for the DHA exam?
The passing score is typically 60% for most professions (doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists) and 55% for some allied health professions like lab technicians and radiographers.
Q6. How long does the DHA exam result take?
DHA exam results are generally published on the Sheryan portal within 2 to 5 working days after the exam. An email notification is also sent.
Q7. Can the DHA license be used in Abu Dhabi or Sharjah?
The DHA license is specific to Dubai. To work in Abu Dhabi, you need a DOH license, and for Northern Emirates, an MOH license. However, license conversion between these bodies is possible in certain cases.
Q8. How many times can I retake the DHA exam if I fail?
Candidates are allowed to retake the DHA exam up to 3 times. A waiting period applies between attempts. After 3 failures, additional assessment or training may be required before reapplying.
Q9. Is IELTS required for the DHA exam?
No. There is no mandatory requirement to submit an IELTS score for the DHA exam. However, the exam itself is conducted in English, so a strong command of medical English is essential for success.
Q10. What is the validity of the DHA license?
The DHA license is valid for 1 year from the date of activation and must be renewed before expiry through the Sheryan portal.
