DOH Abu Dhabi Medical License Guide
Complete guide to the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH) licensing process for doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals
About DOH and Healthcare Licensing in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH), formerly known as the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD), is the regulatory body responsible for the health sector in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. If you wish to practice as a doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, or allied health professional in Abu Dhabi, you must hold a valid DOH professional license. The DOH licensing process is designed to ensure that all healthcare practitioners meet the UAE's standards for education, training, and competency, in line with the UAE Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR).
The DOH license is specific to Abu Dhabi. It is separate from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license (required for Dubai) and the federal MOHAP license (required for the Northern Emirates). If you plan to work in more than one emirate, you may need multiple licenses. Many healthcare professionals choose to obtain a DOH license when they are recruited by hospitals or clinics in Abu Dhabi, or when they relocate to the UAE capital. The process typically involves eligibility verification, document submission, Primary Source Verification (PSV), and, where applicable, an assessment or examination before the license is issued.
At You Recruit, we support doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals through the entire DOH licensing journey—from understanding eligibility and preparing documents to completing PSV and any required assessments. We help you avoid common pitfalls and delays so that you can obtain your Abu Dhabi license and start practicing as efficiently as possible.
DOH Licensing Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Determine eligibility and PQR alignment
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH) licenses healthcare professionals in line with the UAE Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR). You must meet the education, training, and experience criteria for your profession and level. DOH provides guidelines and, where applicable, self-assessment or eligibility tools to help you confirm your eligibility before applying.
Step 2: Submit your application and documents
Create an account on the DOH portal (or the designated platform) and submit your application along with the required documents. These typically include your primary and postgraduate qualifications, professional license from your home country, experience certificates, and a valid Good Standing Certificate. Documents must be attested as per DOH requirements.
Step 3: Primary Source Verification (PSV)
DOH requires verification of your credentials at source. This is often carried out through DataFlow or another DOH-designated provider. Your documents will be verified with the issuing institutions. The PSV process usually takes several weeks. Once the verification report is accepted by DOH, you can move to the next stage.
Step 4: Assessment or examination (if required)
Depending on your profession and specialty, DOH may require you to complete an assessment or examination. This could be a computer-based test, an oral assessment, or another form of evaluation. The exact requirement is communicated once your application and PSV are in order. Prepare accordingly and schedule the assessment as per DOH instructions.
Step 5: Registration and license issuance
After you have met all requirements—including PSV and any assessment—you will complete the registration process, pay the applicable fees, and receive your DOH professional license. Your license will allow you to practice within the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Keep track of renewal dates and continuing education requirements to maintain your license in good standing.
Required Documents for DOH License
- Primary qualification certificate (degree/diploma)
- Internship or residency completion certificate
- Postgraduate or specialty qualification (if applicable)
- Professional license or registration from home country
- Experience certificates
- Good Standing Certificate (not older than 6 months)
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photographs
- Any other documents specified by DOH
Note: Document requirements may vary by profession and specialty. All certificates and letters must be attested as per DOH guidelines. The Good Standing Certificate is typically valid for six months. For the most current checklist, refer to the official DOH portal or contact us for up-to-date guidance.
DOH vs DHA vs MOHAP: Which License Do You Need?
If you will practice only in Abu Dhabi, you need a DOH license. If you will practice only in Dubai, you need a DHA license. If you will practice in the Northern Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah), you typically need a MOHAP (federal) license. Some professionals hold both a DOH and a MOHAP license, or a DHA and a MOHAP license, depending on their employer and place of work. Understanding which license(s) you need from the start helps you plan your application and avoid unnecessary steps. Our team can advise you based on your job offer and intended practice location.
The DOH licensing process is streamlined through the DOH portal and designated verification providers. Timelines can vary depending on document completeness, PSV duration, and whether an assessment is required. We recommend starting your application well in advance of your intended start date and ensuring that your documents are correctly prepared and attested. For personalized support with your DOH license application, contact You Recruit. We guide doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals through every step of the Abu Dhabi licensing process.
Need Help with Your DOH Abu Dhabi License?
We guide healthcare professionals through the full DOH licensing process, from eligibility to license issuance.
FAQ