Your UK credentials qualify you for DHA’s Tier 1 classification, streamlining your path to licensure. First, you’ll gather your CCT and GMC documentation with proper attestation. Next, you’ll complete DataFlow’s Primary Source Verification while simultaneously registering through the Sheryan portal. Finally, you’ll pass the DHA assessment, typically a 150-question CBT with a 60% threshold, to secure your eligibility letter within 5-10 business days. Each phase below breaks down the specific compliance requirements you’ll need to satisfy.
Verify Your Tier 1 Status and Gather CCT Documentation for DHA Recognition
When you set out to obtain your Dubai medical license as a UK-trained doctor, your Tier 1 country classification gives you a significant advantage in the DHA licensing hierarchy. This status means you’ll face fewer barriers during credential verification and require minimal post-specialization experience compared to applicants from Tier 2 or Tier 3 countries. Your Tier 1 classification also means you qualify for exam exemption during the assessment pathway phase.
Your Certificate of Completion of Training serves as the primary postgraduate qualification DHA requires. Before submission, you must complete the document attestation process: first through UK authorities, then through UAE Embassy certification. Guarantee your CCT documentation is current and properly authenticated. You’ll submit these credentials alongside your supporting medical documentation through the Sheryan portal, maintaining both digital and physical copies throughout the process. You must also include a Good Standing Certificate from the General Medical Council to confirm your professional registration status in the UK.
Complete the DataFlow Primary Source Verification and Sheryan Portal Registration
Before DHA will process your license application, you must complete Primary Source Verification through DataFlow, a mandatory authentication system introduced in 2008 to detect fraudulent credentials and protect patient safety across UAE healthcare facilities.
You’ll submit your CCT, GMC registration, medical degree, and experience letters alongside a signed Letter of Authorization permitting DataFlow to contact issuing institutions directly. The dataflow verification timeline typically covers your last five years of clinical experience and current licensure status. Guarantee non-English documents are properly translated and attested. You can track your verification progress by logging into your DataFlow account to monitor the PSV verification status at each stage. Additionally, ensure you have your good standing certificate from the GMC, as this document confirms your current professional standing and is essential for the verification process.
Simultaneously, complete your sheryan registration checklist by creating a Sheryan portal account and finishing the self-assessment check. DHA requires this professional ID before processing applications. You can execute both DataFlow PSV and Sheryan registration in parallel, streamlining your pathway toward licensing eligibility and maintaining regulatory compliance throughout the process.
Pass the DHA Assessment Requirements and Secure Your Eligibility Letter
Three assessment pathways, CBT, oral examination, or combined reassessment, determine your route to DHA licensure, depending on your professional category and licensing history. UK-trained specialists typically benefit from Tier 1 classification, requiring minimal post-specialization experience under PQR guidelines.
| Assessment Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| CBT Format | 150 MCQs, 165 minutes, 60% passing threshold |
| Maximum Attempts | Three per year; failure bars oral progression |
Your documentation process must demonstrate valid specialist registration with the GMC and current Certificate of Good Standing. While language exam requirements don’t apply to UK graduates, you’ll schedule your CBT through Prometric’s DHA portal after receiving conditional eligibility status. You must also ensure you have minimum 2 years of clinical experience to meet the DHA’s eligibility requirements. DataFlow conducts Primary Source Verification of all your credentials directly with issuing institutions before DHA grants final approval. Upon passing, DHA issues your eligibility letter within 5-10 business days, authorizing facility sponsorship applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Transfer My Dubai Medical License to Work in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, you can transfer your DHA license to work in Abu Dhabi under DOH. You’ll need to meet license transfer requirements, including holding your Dubai license for at least 3 months with active employment. Obtain your Good Standing Certificate from DHA, update your DataFlow verification, and secure employer nomination. Note that the visa application process runs separately through your new employer. You won’t need an NOC, and you can hold licenses in both emirates simultaneously.
How Long Does the Complete DHA Licensing Process Typically Take for UK Doctors?
You’ll typically complete the full DHA licensing procedure within 3-6 months. Your application timeline breaks down as follows: document preparation takes 1-2 weeks, Primary Source Verification through DataFlow requires 30-45 days, and DHA’s eligibility review adds 10-15 business days. If you’re required to sit an examination, expect an additional 1-2 months. License activation following approval takes 5-7 working days once you’ve secured your job offer.
What Medical Fitness Tests Are Required for Doctors Over 65 Years Old?
If you’re 65 or older, you must complete a detailed medical exam at a DHA-approved fitness center. This assessment evaluates your physical health, screens for infectious diseases, and includes a mental capacity assessment to guarantee clinical competency. You’ll need to submit your fitness certificate during license activation through the Sheryan portal. The certificate remains valid for two years, provided you don’t develop any conditions impacting your practice ability.
Do I Need to Translate My UK Medical Documents Into Arabic?
You don’t need to translate your UK medical documents into Arabic. Since your qualifications originate from English-language documentation systems, they meet DHA language requirements without additional document translation. The UAE Embassy certification process accepts English-language documents from UK-trained professionals, and credentials attested through UK authorities maintain recognized English language standards. You’ll still need to guarantee all documents are clear, high-resolution, and properly attested through the required verification stages.
How Long Is My DHA Registration Valid Before Requiring Renewal?
Your DHA registration remains valid for one year from issuance. Understanding the medical license validity timeline helps you stay compliant with regulatory requirements. You can submit your license renewal period application within 90 days before expiry or up to 3 months after expiration through the Sheryan portal. Don’t exceed this window, gaps beyond 6 months risk cancellation and require additional verification. Processing typically takes 5 working days with approximately AED 200 in fees.
