DHA Exam: Full Form, Pattern, Syllabus, Eligibility, Preparation & Fees in India
The DHA exam is the licensing examination for healthcare professionals, required to obtain a license to work in Dubai’s regulated medical system. Dubai Health Authority, the governing body of the healthcare system, is administering the exam, which tests the candidate’s medical knowledge, professional skills, and their understanding of the healthcare industry standards in the UAE, thus guaranteeing safety, efficient hospital, clinic, and medical center runs, and quality of care for patients.
Apart from the government’s initiatives to improve healthcare services, the growing demand for highly skilled Indian doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals in Dubai has led to the need for a DHA license for one’s career. This guide discusses the DHA exam full form, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, preparation strategy, and fees in India, making it very easy for aspirants to plan their steps clearly and confidently. Apart from that, candidates can get the organized guidance of the Global Degree experts to have a proper understanding of the documentation, timelines, and exam readiness before they start their professional journey in Dubai.
DHA Exam 2026 Highlights
| Aspect | Key Details |
| Exam Objective | To evaluate the qualifications, skills, and professional competence of healthcare practitioners seeking employment in Dubai. |
| Governing Authority | Dubai Health Authority (DHA). |
| Eligibility Requirements | Relevant academic qualifications, required clinical experience based on profession, and successful DataFlow (Primary Source) verification. |
| Test Mode | Computer-based examination (CBT). |
| Exam Conducting Body | Prometric Testing Services. |
| Question Format | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). |
| Exam Language | English. |
| Test Duration | Approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the healthcare specialty. |
| Qualifying Marks | Usually between 60% and 75%, varying by profession and specialization. |
| Syllabus Coverage | Profession-specific topics include clinical knowledge, practical skills, medical ethics, and UAE healthcare regulations. |
| License Validity | Valid for 1 year and renewable upon meeting DHA requirements. |
| Result Declaration | Typically released within 2 to 5 working days after the exam. |
Whatis the DHA Exam In India?
The DHA exam is a professional licensing examination that is mandatory for healthcare practitioners who want to work legally in Dubai. It is considered a first step by many aspirants, especially those who are researching “what is the DHA exam in India”, towards acquiring a job in the healthcare sector within Dubai’s regulated medical system. The test measures a candidate’s clinical knowledge, professional competence, and compliance with international healthcare standards.
The test is conducted under the authority of the Dubai Health Authority, which regulates healthcare professionals and facilities in Dubai. There is a requirement to pass the DHA test as it is one way of determining practitioners who are qualified and competent, thereby protecting patient safety and the quality of care.
The DHA test is for doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals like laboratory technicians, radiographers, physiotherapists, and any other healthcare specialists.
DHA Exam Full Form
The DHA exam full form is the Dubai Health Authority Exam. It is a licensing test that determines healthcare professionals’ capability to be safe, competent, and legal practitioners in Dubai’s healthcare system. The key goal of the DHA exam is to analyze a candidate’s educational background, clinical knowledge, professional skills, and familiarity with healthcare ethics and local regulations.
One should not mix up the DHA exam with the DHA license. The DHA exam is a test for candidates to qualify, whereas a DHA license is an official permission given after a person has passed the exam and met all the requirements for verification. The simple explanation is that exam success gives a candidate the eligibility to work, not the job. It is the DHA license that legally permits a healthcare professional to work in Dubai.
DHA Exam Eligibility 2026
In case you are planning to study in Dubai or work as a healthcare professional, clearing the DHA exam becomes a mandatory requirement for you. DHA exam eligibility criteria are essential requirements for applicants to take the DHA exam. Candidates’ eligibility for the exam is determined by the authorities of the Dubai Health Authority. Below are the key requirements:
- Education: Candidates should have a health professional degree, such as MBBS, BDS, BSc Nursing, Pharmacy, or an equivalent healthcare qualification from a recognized educational institution.
- Experience: After obtaining the degree or finishing the internship, at least 2 years of professional or clinical work experience is generally required. The specific experience requirement may depend on the nature of the profession.
- Professional License: The applicant must have a valid medical or professional license issued by the relevant regulatory body in India or any other country.
These are the main requirements that need to be met before the candidate is allowed to sit for the DHA exam and initiate the DataFlow verification procedure.
Documents Required for DHA Exam
Candidates wishing to take the DHA exam should be prepared to submit a full set of documents to confirm their identity, educational background, and professional qualifications. Those planning to take the DHA exam in India must ensure their documents are not only accurate but also up to date, to avoid issues during verification.
- Recent passport-size photograph with good facial visibility
- Valid passport copy containing personal details consistent with the above
- Relevant educational certificates for the healthcare qualification
- Experience certificates that indicate clinical or professional work relevant to the post applied for
- Valid professional license or registration from the competent authority of the home country
- Good Standing Certificate (GSC) from the medical council issuing the license
- Logbook or case records, which are especially necessary for surgical and procedure-based specialties
All the documents that are handed in must be in line with the details provided at the time of registration and also during the DataFlow verification process.
DHA Exam Registration 2026
For those healthcare professionals who intend to practice their profession in Dubai, it is mandatory for them to register through the DHA exam registration process online prior to the exam. The whole registration is done through the DHA Sheryan portal official website, and you go through various stages of verification during the process.
- Sign up on the DHA Sheryan portal by entering your personal and passport details.
- Try out the Self-Assessment Tool that is publicly available on the portal to assess your eligibility for a particular profession.
- Finish the online application form and upload the documents requiring DataFlow verification.
- Select a convenient exam date and test center from the options provided only if you qualify.
- Pay the DHA exam registration fee to confirm your exam choice.
At the end of the registration, candidates get a DHA Unique ID, which can be used to track the status of the application. Ordinarily, it takes about 5 to 10 working days to complete the entire process from the submission of the application to the final decision. In some instances, candidates are required to do an oral assessment as well. The whole process is almost the same as the licensing procedures that students planning to study in USA for regulated professions go through.
DHA Exam Fees 2026
DHA exam fees in India play a crucial role when healthcare professionals are considering working in Dubai. This is because the licensing costs are being paid in multiple stages. The process initiates with a free self-assessment, and then, if applicable, a manual review fee is charged. Candidates are also required to pay for Primary Source Verification via DataFlow, which varies by profession, with the highest charges for doctors and the lowest for nurses and allied health professionals. Once the verification is done, the exam fee is paid, and sometimes, an additional oral assessment fee may be charged. The final payment of the DHA exam registration fee marks the last stage, allowing applicants to proceed with license issuance and activation.
Estimated Total Cost by Profession
| Profession | Approximate Total Cost (AED) |
| General Practitioners | 3,000 – 3,400 |
| Dentists | 3,200 – 3,400 |
| Pharmacists | 2,800 – 3,200 |
| Nurses | 2,200 – 2,600 |
| Allied Health Professionals | 2,000 – 2,500 |
The above-mentioned costs are only indicative; they may change depending on one’s specialization and DHA updates. Applicants must always verify the most recent DHA exam fee structure on the official DHA portal prior to their application.
DHA Exam Dates 2026
A lot of applicants try to figure out if there is a fixed date for the DHA exam, but unfortunately, there is no single exam calendar released in advance. Actually, the DHA exam is available throughout the year, and candidates can choose the date they want to take the test based on availability. If you are planning to take the DHA exam in India, the test is conducted at authorized Prometric test centres in major cities.
Because the exam is computer-based, candidates have to undergo the DataFlow verification process and get their eligibility approved first. Then, on working days, slots can be booked, usually from Monday to Friday, subject to seat availability. It is best to book the exam at least 1 month in advance, as slots fill up quickly in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.
While exams are held all year, most candidates plan their endeavors around the common application cycles in January, April, July, and October. Exam dates are liable to change, so candidates should frequently check the official DHA and Prometric websites for the latest information.
DHA Exam Centres in India
DHA exam in India is offered at official Prometric test centres, which have all the necessary facilities and infrastructure to conduct the computer-based test (CBT) as per international standards of examinations. These centres adhere to very strict security and testing procedures in order to provide a fair examination environment.
Major cities with DHA exam centres include:
Upon successful completion of DataFlow verification and receiving approval of eligibility, candidates can proceed to make their exam appointment at any of these centres. It is strongly recommended that you choose the test location very carefully, as making changes or rescheduling might require paying extra DHA exam fees.
DHA Exam Pattern 2026
The DHA exam pattern aims to check the professional knowledge and clinical understanding of healthcare candidates in a computer-based format. The exam is held as a Computer-Based Test (CBT), and the whole test is made up of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Each question has four options, but only one is the correct answer. The number of questions and the exam time depend on the candidate’s profession, and the test is conducted in English.
Exam Structure by Profession
| Profession | Question Format | Approx. Questions | Time Allowed | Qualifying Score |
| General Practitioners | MCQs | Around 150 | About 165 minutes | 60% |
| Nurses | MCQs | Around 150 | About 165 minutes | 60% |
| Dentists | MCQs | Around 150 | Up to 180 minutes | 60% |
| Pharmacists | MCQs | Around 120 | About 165 minutes | 60% |
| Lab Technicians | MCQs | Around 100 | About 150 minutes | 55% |
The exact structure of the exam can differ a little with the specialty and DHA’s directions. Knowing the pattern beforehand will allow the candidates to use their time efficiently and give attention to the topics that carry the most marks. A lot of candidates also get assistance from Global Degrees study abroad consultants in Kerala for preparing for the exam in a way that fits with their career and licensing schedule.
DHA Exam Syllabus 2026
The DHA exam syllabus is primarily structured to assess theoretical knowledge and the practical understanding of healthcare professionals across different specializations. There are main core areas that are always common; however, the main focus on the areas and the weightage always vary by the profession. Generally, the exam is a test of clinical skills, professional behavior, patient care standards, and knowledge of the healthcare system in the UAE.
Core Topics Covered Across Various Professions
- Clinical expertise associated with a particular medical area
- Ethics in the profession and legal obligations in the UAE
- Guidelines for standard treatment and patient safety measures
- DHA rules, licensing requirements, and hospital facilities standards
- Introduction to the healthcare system of the UAE and insurance setup
- English language understanding for clinical communication
DHA Exam Syllabus for Nurses
| Topic Area | Approximate Weightage |
| Nursing Fundamentals | 25% |
| Adult Nursing | 20% |
| Pediatric Nursing | 18% |
| Maternal Health | 15% |
| Unit Management and Leadership | 22% |
DHA Exam Syllabus for General Practitioners
- Chronic and lifestyle-related diseases
- Acute and common medical conditions
- Pediatric health issues
- Women’s health and gynecology basics
- Emergency and trauma care
- Common surgical conditions
- Psychiatric disorders
- Eye, ENT, and dermatological problems
- Epidemiology and evidence-based medicine concepts
- Family medicine and preventive healthcare
- Screening and periodic health examinations
DHA Exam Syllabus for Pharmacists
| Topic Area | Approximate Weightage |
| Pharmaceutical Care and Disease Management | 35% |
| Pharmacy Calculations and Compounding | 15% |
| Counter Medications | 10% |
| Pharmacy Law and Ethics | 10% |
| Toxicology | 5% |
| Pregnancy and Lactation | 5% |
| Pediatrics and Geriatrics | 10% |
| Pharmacokinetics and Medication Safety | 10% |
DHA Exam Syllabus for Lab Technicians
- Laboratory safety and quality control
- Bacteriology and virology
- Immunology and parasitology
- Hematology and blood banking
- Biochemistry and hormonal analysis
- Urinalysis and mycology
DHA Exam Syllabus for Dentists
- Anesthesia and pain management
- Dental trauma and emergencies
- Temporomandibular joint disorders
- Dentoalveolar and implant surgery
- Reconstructive and cosmetic procedures
- Orthognathic surgery and deformities
- Patient education and dental ethics
The syllabus might be changed from time to time according to the DHA guidelines. Therefore, candidates should always check the latest official syllabus before they start their preparation.
DHA Exam Result
At the end of the DHA exam, test-takers may be handed a small performance summary by the staff at the center. This highlights the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses but is not a final mark. The official DHA exam result is posted on the Sheryan self-service portal. The results are generally available within two to five working days, and an email notification is sent to the candidates. The scores are determined from the answers and are presented as pass or fail. Those candidates who pass the exam will be given the green light to proceed with the licensing process; however, those who do not pass may retake the examination up to 3 times with guidance from study abroad consultants in Calicut.
DHA License Fees 2026
Those who have passed the Dubai Health Authority exam will be issued a license to practice upon payment of the relevant license activation fees. The price of the license depends on the type of license, its validity period, and the professional category. To cater to different employment scenarios, DHA provides full-time, part-time, and trainee licenses.
DHA Professional License Fee Structure
| License Category | Nurses / Midwives / Allied Health / T&CM | Physicians / 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 |
The license charges are made post eligibility confirmation and passing of the test. Candidates are advised to choose the duration of their license carefully, as fees vary widely by profession and validity period. Upon reaching the expiration date of the license, one must carry out the renewal process as per the provisions of the Dubai Health Authority.
DHA Exam Preparation Tips
One of the most essential aspects of DHA exam preparation is to comprehend the exam pattern, syllabus, and the areas of focus for different professions. Initially, go through the official DHA timetable and pinpoint the topics that carry more marks and are in line with your field. Besides, refer to the standard textbooks, the latest clinical guidelines, and the healthcare laws of the UAE to prepare yourself properly. Doing MCQs on a regular basis aids you in bettering your precision, and at the same time, it is an excellent way of managing your time for computer-based exams. Also, mock tests can help you figure out your strong points as well as your shortcomings; thus, you can work more on the areas that need revision.
Try to concentrate on clinical concepts, patient safety, and ethics that are usually present in the exam. In addition to this, a regular revision, a good time plan, and being acquainted with the exam rules can undoubtedly elevate your level of confidence and help you perform better on the day of the exam.
Conclusion
The DHA exam is a step forward for healthcare professionals who want to establish their career in the medical sector of Dubai. A thorough grasp of the exam layout, eligibility criteria, fees, syllabus, and licensing steps not only helps candidates avoid common pitfalls but also equips them with clarity and confidence to proceed. Subject-wise preparation, diligent effort, and the right strategy are musts because the DHA exam tests clinical knowledge and professional behavior as per the UAE healthcare standards.
Indian healthcare professionals who want to work in Dubai should definitely consider starting their DHA journey at the very beginning. It is crucial to give careful attention to every step, including document verification, exam preparation, and licensing. Global Degrees provides expert assistance throughout the process by helping a candidate plan the timeline, obtain the necessary documents, and prepare for the DHA exam in a very strategic way. This makes the whole process of moving to Dubai for a healthcare career not only easier but also more attainable.
FAQs
Definitely, a job offer isn’t necessary while applying for the DHA exam. A candidate may complete the examination and licensing formalities before getting a job.
The DHA license is mainly meant for the city of Dubai. Still, it can be switched to MOH or DOH through an official license conversion in certain cases.
There is no requirement to submit a separate language proficiency test score, such as IELTS, etc. Although candidates need to show a sufficient English proficiency level during the exam and assessment.
If verification through DataFlow takes longer than anticipated, it is advised that candidates continually check the status and respond promptly to any requested document clarifications.
Absolutely, Global Degrees is not only preparing candidates for DHA exams but also assisting them with license renewal and transfer procedures if needed.
Global Degrees indeed provides candidates in the healthcare profession with customized guidance; thus, they can target their preparation for the exam and documentation.
A change in specialty after application submission is an unusual case, and in most instances, it will be necessary to restart the process with new verification.
