⚖️ DHA vs MOH vs DOH Licensing in UAE: Which One Do You Need?

Introduction

If you’re a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or healthcare professional planning to work in the UAE, the first step is obtaining the right medical license. The UAE has three major licensing authorities:

• DHA (Dubai Health Authority)
• MOH (Ministry of Health & Prevention)
• DOH (Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, formerly HAAD)

Choosing the right one depends on where you want to work and your career goals. Let’s break down the differences.

1- Dubai Health Authority (DHA)

• Jurisdiction: Emirate of Dubai
• Covers: All hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in Dubai (except DHCC, which has its own).
• Requirements:
  • Primary Source Verification (DataFlow) of qualifications
  • DHA exam (Prometric)
  • Relevant work experience certificates
• Best for: Doctors and healthcare professionals planning to work exclusively in Dubai.

2- Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOH)

• Jurisdiction: Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain
• Covers: All hospitals and clinics outside Dubai & Abu Dhabi (Northern Emirates).
• Requirements:
  • DataFlow verification
  • MOH licensing exam
  • Validity across multiple Emirates (except Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
• Best for: Professionals looking for opportunities in the Northern Emirates, often with lower cost of living and less competition.

3- Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH/HAAD)

• Jurisdiction: Emirate of Abu Dhabi
• Covers: All hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in Abu Dhabi & Al Ain.
• Requirements:
  • DataFlow verification
  • DOH exam
  • DOH licensing & registration system
• Best for: Professionals seeking high-paying opportunities in Abu Dhabi, particularly specialists and consultants.

4- Key Differences Between DHA, MOH, and DOH

5- Can You Transfer Licenses Between Authorities?

Yes. Professionals can transfer their license between DHA, MOH, and DOH, but it requires:

• Meeting eligibility requirements of the new authority
• Passing additional exams (in some cases)
• Submitting updated DataFlow verification

This process can be time-consuming, which is why many professionals prefer to choose their target Emirate before applying.

6- How We Help Healthcare Professionals

At Digital Healthcare Advisers, we guide doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff through the entire licensing journey:

✔️ Eligibility assessment for DHA, MOH, or DOH
✔️ End-to-end document verification (DataFlow)
✔️ Exam scheduling & preparation support
✔️ License transfer between Emirates
✔️ Job placement & visa processing

Conclusion

Your medical license is your passport to practicing in UAE’s healthcare sector. Choosing the right authority (DHA, MOH, or DOH) depends on where you want to live, work, and grow your career.