Moving from US medical practice to Dubai requires traversing three distinct phases that typically span 14 to 30 weeks. First, you’ll gather and legalize your medical documents through state authorities and the UAE Embassy (2, 4 weeks). Next, you’ll complete DHA licensing, Primary Source Verification, and required exams (6, 10 weeks). Finally, you’ll secure a Dubai position and activate your facility-linked license (6, 16 weeks). Each phase has specific requirements and timelines you’ll want to understand before starting.
Gather Your US Medical Documents for DHA Review (2, 4 Weeks)
The Dubai Health Authority requires meticulous documentation before you can practice medicine in the UAE, and gathering your US credentials is the critical first step. You’ll need your attested MD/DO diploma from an LCME- or ACGME-recognized medical school, along with your complete transcript showing course titles and credit hours.
Collect your ACGME-accredited residency completion certificates and any fellowship documentation. If you’re board-certified, obtain verification letters from ABMS or AOA boards. These documents will later undergo primary source verification through the DataFlow Group to authenticate your credentials before DHA processing. The Dataflow PSV process typically costs between $150 and $300 USD, so budget accordingly when planning your move.
Here’s what makes this phase time-intensive: all education documents require notarized documents processed through state authorities, the US Department of State, and the UAE Embassy. Any non-English materials need certified translations in English or Arabic. Start this legalization chain immediately, it typically takes two to four weeks to complete.
Complete DHA Licensing, PSV, and Exams (6, 10 Weeks)
Once your attested documents are in hand, you’ll shift focus to the DHA’s Sheryan portal, the digital gateway where your licensing journey officially begins. After uploading your credentials, DataFlow initiates Primary Source Verification, typically taking 25, 45 working days. Express processing can compress this to roughly 14 working days at additional cost.
PSV outcomes matter tremendously, only “Verified” status advances your application. DHA then conducts eligibility review within 10, 15 working days, determining your classification as GP, Specialist, or Consultant.
Most US-trained physicians face examination requirements, though exam waiver criteria may apply for certain Tier-1 qualifications. Understanding the DHA exam difficulty level helps you prepare appropriately. If you need to retake the Prometric exam, be aware that a 3-month waiting period applies before you can reschedule. Budget AED 2,800, 5,000 for combined verification and licensing fees. Upon passing, you’ll receive registration valid for one year, providing flexibility for your job search. Keep in mind that even physicians licensed in another Gulf country must complete this full DHA licensing process to practice in Dubai.
Land a Dubai Job and Activate Your License (6, 16 Weeks)
With your DHA registration secured, you’re ready to plunge into Dubai’s competitive medical job market, a process that typically spans 6, 16 weeks from initial applications to activated license.
Target Gulf-focused medical recruiters like Medacs and Head Medical, who routinely place ABMS-certified physicians in consultant roles at major hospital groups including Mediclinic and American Hospital Dubai. Prepare a UAE-style CV emphasizing your board certification, recent case mix, and leadership experience. You should budget approximately $750 for licensing fees when preparing your application materials.
During interviews, you’ll discuss compensation structure covering base salary, housing allowance, education benefits, and annual flights. Experienced specialists and consultants can expect monthly earnings from 70,000 to 120,000+ AED, making negotiations particularly important for physicians with extensive credentials. Don’t hesitate to negotiate relocation package elements like temporary accommodation and shipping allowances.
Once you’ve signed your contract, your employer’s credentialing office submits documents through DHA’s Sheryan system, activating your facility-linked practicing privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can My Spouse and Children Get Visas When I Move to Dubai?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse and children for residence visas once you’ve secured your own valid residence permit. You’ll need to meet the minimum salary requirement of AED 4,000 monthly and provide attested marriage and birth certificates. Your spouse work opportunities expand once they obtain their own employment permit. Children school options are plentiful, with excellent international schools available. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks after your visa is finalized.
How Much Can US Doctors Expect to Earn in Dubai Tax-Free?
You can expect to earn AED 540,000, 840,000 annually as a specialist, or AED 720,000, 1,080,000+ as a consultant, completely tax-free. In a tax free earnings comparison, you’ll keep your full salary, whereas similar US earnings face 35, 45% taxation. Western-trained physicians typically command 15, 25% higher pay. While cost of living adjustments matter, your benefits package, including housing, transport allowances, and airfare, significantly boosts your total compensation beyond the base salary.
What Happens to My US Medical License While Working in Dubai?
Your US medical license remains valid while you practice in Dubai, provided you continue meeting your state’s license renewal requirements. You’ll need to pay renewal fees, complete CME credits, and follow all medical practice guidelines your state mandates. Dubai authorities actually require your active US license during credentialing. Don’t let it lapse, maintaining good standing protects your ability to return to American practice and strengthens your professional credentials internationally.
Do I Need to Learn Arabic to Practice Medicine in Dubai?
No, you don’t need to learn Arabic to practice medicine in Dubai. Language proficiency requirements for DHA licensing accept English or Arabic, and most major hospitals operate primarily in English. However, learning basic Arabic phrases can help you navigate cultural adaptation challenges and build stronger rapport with Arabic-speaking patients. Consider it a strategic advantage rather than a formal requirement, you’ll find English widely spoken throughout Dubai’s healthcare system.
Can I Maintain a Part-Time Practice in the USA While Working in Dubai?
Yes, you can maintain practice in the USA while working in Dubai, though you’ll need careful planning. You must keep your US state medical license active, secure malpractice coverage for telemedicine, and coordinate work schedules across time zones. Check your Dubai employer’s contract for exclusivity clauses and obtain written approval for outside practice. Many physicians successfully balance both roles through structured telehealth sessions and periodic US visits.
