DHA Exam 2025: Full Form, Fees, Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus
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DHA Exam 2025: Full Form, Fees, Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus

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Raushan
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Updated on Jan 17, 2025 11:16 IST

The full form of the DHA exam is the Dubai Health Authority Exam. The DHA exam is designed for various healthcare roles, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other allied health professionals who want to get a license to work in Dubai. Check DHA exam structure, eligibility criteria, and other important details.

DHA Exam

The DHA Exam, or Dubai Health Authority Exam, is an important test for healthcare professionals who want to work in Dubai. This DHA licensure exam is required for doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other allied health professionals who need a license to practice.

The DHA exam has two main parts: a written test and an oral assessment. The written test is done on a computer and includes multiple-choice questions about different medical topics. The oral assessment checks practical skills and how well candidates can communicate with patients. To get a license from the Dubai Health Authority, candidates must pass both parts of the exam.

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There are no fixed DHA exam dates. Candidates need to schedule a DHA exam date 2025 based on their availability. The DHA exam is conducted four times a year, typically in January, April, July, and October. The DHA exam 2025 takes place at authorised testing centers in Dubai and can also be scheduled online. Passing this DHA exam is important for obtaining a medical license in Dubai, which allows healthcare professionals to work legally. Candidates should study the DHA exam syllabus, take practice tests, and more.








DHA Exam Overview

Particulars

Details

Purpose

To assess the qualifications and competency of healthcare professionals to work in Dubai.

Conducting Authority

Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

Eligibility

  • Academic qualifications
  • Professional experience (varies by profession)
  • DataFlow verification.

Exam Format

Computer-Based Test (CBT).

Exam Provider

Prometric Testing Services.

Question Type

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).

Language

English.

Duration

2-3 hours (depending on the profession).

Passing Score

60%-75% (varies by profession and specialty).

Exam Topics

Varies by profession (e.g., medical knowledge, clinical skills, ethics, UAE laws).

Validity of License

1 year (renewable).

Result Timeline

Typically released within 2-5 working days after the exam.

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DHA Exam Dates 2025

The DHA Exam is typically conducted four times a year in January, April, July, and October. The application submission generally starts in January for the first slot. However, students must note that these dates are subject to change. Therefore, applicants are advised to regularly check the DHA official website and look for the latest information. Additionally, applicants can visit the Prometric website to get more information about scheduling and locations.







DHA Exam Eligibility 2025

Healthcare professionals who have not yet registered with DHA can apply for the test registration. However, students aiming to practice in Dubai must fulfill the following eligibility criteria to apply for the DHA exam:

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  • Educational Qualification: Applicants must have a medical certificate from a recognised institution along with an MBBS degree or equivalent.
  • Professional Experience: A minimum of two years of professional experience in the respective field is required. 
  • Licensure: Applicants must have a valid license to practice in their home country or any other country. 

Documents Required for DHA Exam

Below is the list of important documents mandatory to apply for DHA exam registration: 

  • Recent passport-size photograph
  • Valid passport copy
  • Educational qualifications
  • Experience certificates
  • License/registration
  • Good Standing Certificate (GSC)
  • Logbook for surgical specialties

Understanding the eligibility requirements and admission process is crucial for international medical aspirants. Learn about the key requirements for studying MBBS abroad, including entrance exams, documentation, and age criteria.

DHA Exam Registration 2025

Healthcare professionals who want to work in Dubai must register for the DHA exam to submit their application online. Below are the steps to apply for the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) exam 2025:

  • Visit the official DHA website to create a DHA Sheryan account.
  • Search for the self-assessment tool on the Sheryan portal to complete the Self Assessment Tool service. Students can evaluate their eligibility through this tool.
  • Complete the service prerequisites and submit an online application along with the necessary documents to DataFlow for verification. 
  • Schedule an exam date and location available on the list.  
  • Pay the required DHA exam fee.

After the successful submission of the application, candidates can use the DHA Unique ID to track their application status. The average processing time for DHA registration ranges around 5-10 working days. After reviewing the application, DHA may ask for an oral assessment (if required). 

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DHA Exam Fees

Eligible candidates planning to develop a professional career in healthcare and medicine in Dubai must pay the standard DHA test fee to apply for the test. The DHA fees are charged in multiple stages as per the guidelines of the Dubai Healthcare Authority. The DHA exam fee is between 700-1100 AED, based on the DHA exam category.

The complete fee structure of the DHA exam 2025 is given below for all international aspirants:

  • Self Assessment Fee: Free of cost
  • Manual Review: AED 200
  • Primary Source Verification (PSV)
    • The fixed package for doctors: AED 1235
    • The fixed package for nurses or allied healthcare: AED 935
  • DHA Exam: USD 220 to USD 280
  • Registration: AED 200
  • Oral Assessment: AED 250
  • Activation of Professional Licence: AED 1000 AED 4000

DHA Exam Category

Application Fees (AED)

Exam Fees (AED)

License Fees (AED)

Total Estimated Cost (AED)

General Practitioners

1,000 - 1,100

1,000 - 1,200

1,000 - 1,100

3,000 - 3,400

Dentists

1,000 - 1,100

1,200

1,000 - 1,100

3,200 - 3,400

Pharmacists

1,000 - 1,100

1,000 - 1,200

800 - 900

2,800 - 3,200

Nurses

800 - 1,000

800 - 900

600 - 700

2,200 - 2,600

Allied Health Professionals

700 - 900

700 - 900

600 - 700

2,000 - 2,500

Additionally, test-takers have to pay for the DHA Licence and the cost for this varies differently according to the type of license: Full-time Licence, Part-time Licence, and Trainee Licence.

License Type

Profession

Activation Fee (AED)

Full-time License

Physician/Dentist

3,000

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

1,000

Part-time License

Physician/Dentist

4,000

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

4,000

Trainee License

Physician/Dentist

3,000

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

1,000

Convert to Full-time License

Physician/Dentist

200

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

200

DHA Test Fee Payment Methods

The DHA exam fees are typically paid in UAE Dirhams (AED), and applicants can make payments through various methods, including major credit cards, certified bank checks, money orders, or wire transfers for certain programmes. For students looking for the cheapest MBBS colleges abroad, there are numerous options for pursuing MBBS without a significant financial burden. Explore MBBS colleges abroad with a low fee structure to make an informed decision.

DHA Exam Pattern

DHA is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) that includes a total of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The total duration of the test varies from 2-3 hours depending on the profession. The medium of instruction for the test is English. Each question consists of 4 options, students are required to select one correct answer from the given options. However, the total number of questions may vary depending on the type of profession.  

DHA Exam Category

Number of Questions

Time Duration 

Passing Score

General Practitioners

150 MCQs

165 minutes

60%

Nurses

150 MCQs

165 minutes

60%

Dentists

150 MCQs

180 minutes

60%

Pharmacists

120 MCQs

165 minutes

60%

Lab Technicians

100 MCQs

150 minutes

55%

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DHA Exam Syllabus

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) exam assesses the theoretical knowledge, understanding of healthcare practices, and practical skills of students for various healthcare professional categories. Therefore, the DHA test syllabus covers a wide range of topics depending on the various fields. This article covers some general subject areas along with important topics covered by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA):

  • Clinical Knowledge:  Anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and radiology.
  • Professional Skills: Legal and regulatory aspects of healthcare in the UAE. 
  • Clinical Guidelines and Protocols: Evidence-based practices, treatment algorithms, and management approaches.
  • Dubai Health Authority Regulations: Licensing requirements, healthcare standards, and patient safety initiatives specific to the UAE.
  • Dubai's Healthcare System: Healthcare financing, insurance claims, and the role of various healthcare stakeholders.
  • Language Proficiency: English language knowledge.

DHA Exam Syllabus for Nurses

Profession

Topics

Weightage

Nurses

Fundamentals of Nursing

25%

Pediatric Nursing

18%

Adult Nursing

20%

Maternal Health

15%

Unit Management and Leadership

22%

DHA Exam Syllabus for General Practitioners

Profession

Topics

General Practitioners

Chronic Diseases

Acute/Common Medical Problems

Common Pediatric Problems

Women’s Health

Emergency Problems

Common Surgical Problems

Common Psychiatric Problems

Common Eye and ENT Problems

Common Dermatological Problems

Basic Epidemiology and EBM Concepts

Family Medicine Concepts

Screening & Periodic Health Exams

DHA Exam Syllabus for Pharmacists

Profession

Topics

Weightage

Pharmacists

Toxicology

5%

Pregnancy and Lactation

5%

Pediatrics

5%

Geriatrics

5%

Pharmacy Calculation and Compounding

15%

Pharmacokinetics

5%

Pharmaceutical Care and Disease Management

35%

Medication Safety

5%

Counter Medication

10%

Pharmacy Law and Ethics

10%

DHA Exam Syllabus for Lab Technicians

Profession

Topics

Lab Technicians

Safety and Quality Control

Bacteriology

Virology

Immunology

Parasitology

Hematology

Blood Bank

Biochemistry

Hormones

Urinalysis

Mycology

DHA Exam Syllabus for Dentists

Profession

Topics

Dentists

Anesthesia and Pain Management

Trauma

Temporomandibular Joint

Dentoalveolar Surgery

Implant Surgery

Reconstruction

Cosmetic Procedures

Deformities and Orthognathic Surgery

Patient Education

Ethics

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DHA Exam Result

The DHA exam result is usually available within 3-5 business days after the exam is completed. Candidates will be notified about the declaration of DHA exam result via email and can also view their results through their DHA Sheryan portal. The DHA results indicate whether the candidate has passed or failed, with a detailed score report that includes performance breakdowns. If a candidate passes, they can proceed with the licensing process to practice in Dubai. 

If they fail, they can retake the exam up to three times. After three attempts, further action may be required to reapply. In case of any discrepancies with the result, candidates can contact DHA support or request a re-evaluation. Results can be checked on the Sheryan portal under the "Results" section.

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Q:   What is the DHA exam for?

A:

The DHA exam, or Dubai Health Authority exam, is a mandatory test for healthcare professionals who want to practice in Dubai. It assesses the knowledge and skills of candidates to ensure they can provide safe and high-quality medical care according to international standards. Passing this exam is essential for obtaining a medical license in Dubai.

Q:   Is it difficult to pass the DHA exam?

A:

The difficulty of the DHA exam varies depending on the candidate's preparation and background. Many candidates find it challenging due to its comprehensive nature, which covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. However, with proper study materials and preparation strategies, it is possible to pass the exam.

Q:   What is the cost of the DHA exam in India?

A:

The cost of the DHA exam can vary, but it typically ranges from INR 30,000 to INR 50,000 (approximately $400 to $600). This fee may include registration and other administrative costs associated with taking the exam.

Q:   What are the requirements for DHA?

A:

To take the DHA exam, candidates must meet several requirements:

  • Hold a valid medical license from their home country.

  • Have completed an accredited educational programme in their field.

  • Have a minimum of two years of clinical experience.

  • Submit all necessary documents, including educational transcripts and certificates.

Q:   Can I work in Dubai without the DHA exam?

A:

No, you cannot work as a healthcare professional in Dubai without passing the DHA exam. The exam is a legal requirement for obtaining a professional license to practice medicine or any healthcare-related profession in the Emirate.

Q:   What is the pass mark in DHA?

A:

The passing mark for the DHA exam varies by profession. Generally, candidates need to score at least 60% to pass. For some categories, such as lab technicians, a lower passing score of around 55% may be acceptable.

Q:   Is DHA exam required for Nurses in Dubai?

A:

Yes, DHA exam is reuired to get a licence to work as a Nurse in Dubai. The DHA exam has different syllabus for Nurses and the exam has to be attemoted in CBT mode.

Q:   Can Indians apply for BITS Dubai?

A:

Indian students who wish to study at BITS Dubai can apply for admission easily. Applicants have to submit the online application by the deadline for BITS admission. Students must meet the BITS Dubai admission requirements as per the program. Mentioned below are BITS Pilani Dubai admission requirements for International students:

BITS Dubai requirements for first-degree programs:

  • Complete 12th Grade or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall aggregate of marks and a minimum aggregate of 60% in Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry/ Biology/ Computer Science or any other vocational subjects with at least 50% marks in each subject.
  • Meet the English language proficiency requirements

BITS Dubai requirements for higher degree programs:

  • Complete a bachelor's degree with a minimum aggregate of 60% in relevant disciplines.
  • Candidates will be required to appear and successfully clear the Interview to qualify for higher degree admission
  • Meet the English language proficiency requirements
About the Author
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Written by
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content

Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio

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