For any healthcare professional planning to build a career in Abu Dhabi, obtaining a DOH license is the first and most important step. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH) serves as the regulatory authority responsible for ensuring that all medical practitioners in the Emirate meet international healthcare standards.

Whether you are a doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, or allied health professional, securing your Abu Dhabi medical license is mandatory to legally practice and deliver safe, quality healthcare.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the DOH license is, why it’s essential, how to obtain it, and how Drexpat simplifies the entire process for healthcare professionals.

What is the Department of Health (Abu Dhabi Health Authority)?

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH), formerly known as HAAD (Health Authority – Abu Dhabi), is the official health regulatory body overseeing all healthcare-related activities in the Emirate.

Its responsibilities include:

Setting licensing and qualification standards for healthcare professionals.
Regulating hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities.
Conducting medical examinations and evaluations for licensing.
Ensuring that the healthcare workforce meets the highest levels of patient safety and quality.

The DOH plays a critical role in maintaining Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a world-class healthcare destination by ensuring that only qualified, ethical, and competent professionals are licensed to practice.

What is a DOH License?

A DOH license (also referred to as a DOH medical license or medical license Abu Dhabi) is an official authorization issued by the Abu Dhabi Health Authority that permits healthcare professionals to legally practice in Abu Dhabi.

This license is a proof of competence, education, and ethical standards. It ensures that the holder has undergone all required assessments from DataFlow verification to the DOH exam and meets the DOH licensing requirements for their category.

Why is the DOH License Important for Healthcare Professionals

1. Legal Requirement for Practice

No healthcare professional can practice in Abu Dhabi without a valid DOH license Abu Dhabi. It is a mandatory legal requirement for all medical practitioners, ensuring that patient care is delivered only by verified and qualified professionals.

2. Ensures High-Quality Healthcare

The DOH license guarantees that practitioners have completed accredited medical education, possess the necessary clinical experience, and have passed the DOH exam, ensuring top-tier healthcare delivery standards.

3. Expands Career Opportunities

A DOH license opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in both public and private healthcare sectors. Licensed professionals are eligible to work in hospitals, clinics, research institutions, and specialized centers across Abu Dhabi.

4. Competitive Salary and Benefits

Employers in Abu Dhabi value DOH-licensed professionals and often offer higher salaries, better benefits, and long-term contracts compared to non-licensed counterparts.

5. Enhanced Job Security

Having a DOH license demonstrates professionalism and commitment to quality, increasing employability and job retention in a competitive healthcare market.

Difference Between DOH, DHA, and MOH Licenses

One of the most common questions healthcare professionals ask is the difference between these medical licenses in the UAE.

Each license allows healthcare professionals to practice only in the respective emirate unless officially transferred under unified licensing agreements.

Is DOH and HAAD the Same?

No, DOH and HAAD licenses are not the same although they refer to the same licensing system under different names.

The Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD) was the former name of the organization that regulated healthcare licensing in Abu Dhabi. In 2017, the authority was officially restructured and renamed the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH).

Today, all licensing and regulatory responsibilities once handled by HAAD are managed under the DOH.

Key Distinctions Between DOH and HAAD

HAAD is the former authority name: The Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD) no longer operates under that title.
DOH is the current governing body: All healthcare licenses in Abu Dhabi are now issued by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH).
Exam process remains the same: The HAAD exam has been rebranded as the DOH exam, conducted by Pearson VUE. The structure and standards remain identical.
Region-specific scope: The DOH license applies only to Abu Dhabi. Healthcare professionals wishing to work in Dubai require a DHA license, and those in the Northern Emirates require an MOH license.

HAAD and DOH are not separate authorities, but HAAD was replaced by DOH, which now handles all healthcare professional licensing in Abu Dhabi. Therefore, anyone referring to a “HAAD license” is actually referring to the current DOH license.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a DOH License in UAE

Getting a DOH license involves several stages that ensure all professionals meet the required standards. Here’s a clear step-by-step breakdown:

1. Verify Your Eligibility

Before applying, check your eligibility based on your profession and qualifications. Each category (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, etc.) has specific DOH licensing requirements regarding education, experience, and certificates.

You can verify eligibility using the DOH official portal or through Drexpat’s pre-assessment service.

2. Complete DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV)

The DataFlow verification is mandatory for all applicants. It confirms the authenticity of your documents, including:

Degree and transcripts
Experience certificates
Professional registration or license from home country
Good Standing Certificate

Delays in DataFlow often slow down the licensing process Drexpat helps ensure your documents are submitted correctly and verified faster.

3. Register on TAMM or DOH Portal

Healthcare professionals must create an account on the TAMM platform (the unified government portal of Abu Dhabi) or the DOH e-licensing portal.
You’ll upload your documents, complete your profile, and apply for evaluation.

4. Take the DOH License Exam

The DOH exam, conducted through Pearson VUE, assesses your clinical knowledge and practical competence.

Format: Computer-based multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Location: Pearson VUE test centers across the UAE and internationally.
Preparation: Review the DOH syllabus and sample questions; Drexpat provides exam guidance and study materials to boost your success rate.

5. Get Your Eligibility Letter

Once you pass the exam and your documents are verified, you’ll receive an eligibility letter from DOH. This document allows you to seek employment in Abu Dhabi healthcare facilities.

6. Activate Your DOH License Through Employer

Your employer or sponsoring healthcare facility will submit a license activation request on your behalf. Once approved, your DOH license becomes active and linked to your place of work.

DOH License Requirements for Doctors

The DOH license requirements for doctors depend on your specialization and country of qualification. Common requirements include:

Recognized medical degree (MBBS, MD, or equivalent).
Minimum 2 years of clinical experience post-internship.
Valid Good Standing Certificate from your medical council.
DataFlow verification of educational and professional documents.
Successful completion of the DOH license exam (via Pearson VUE).
Continuous Medical Education (CME/CPD) certificates may be required for renewal.

DOH License Exam Explained

The DOH licensing exam is designed to ensure healthcare professionals have the necessary clinical competence to practice safely.

Exam details:

Conducted via Pearson VUE.
Computer-based format with case-based multiple-choice questions.
Covers key medical topics relevant to your specialty.
Passing scores vary depending on the category and specialty.

Tips to Pass:

Review the official DOH exam syllabus.
Practice time-bound mock exams.
Focus on patient safety and evidence-based clinical questions.
Seek Drexpat’s exam preparation support to improve your confidence and readiness.

What Are the Steps for DOH License Renewal?

Maintaining a valid DOH license Abu Dhabi requires timely renewal. The DOH license is typically valid for 2 years, after which healthcare professionals must renew it to continue practicing legally.

Step-by-Step DOH License Renewal Process

Check License Expiry
- Monitor your license validity via the DOH e-licensing portal or TAMM.
- Start the renewal process at least 60 days before expiry to avoid lapses.
Complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD/CME)
- Ensure you have completed the required CME/CPD hours relevant to your profession.
- DOH may request certificates as proof of ongoing professional development.
Update Personal and Employment Details
- Confirm your contact information, employer details, and job role are up to date on the DOH portal.
Submit Renewal Application
- Log in to your DOH/TAMM account and submit the renewal request.
- Attach required documents, including CME certificates and employment verification if requested.
Pay Renewal Fee
- Pay the applicable renewal fee online via the portal to process your application.
Receive Confirmation
- Once approved, your DOH license will be renewed and valid for the next term.

Tip: Using Drexpat’s professional licensing services can simplify the renewal process, ensure compliance with all requirements, and avoid delays or rejection.

How Drexpat Simplifies DOH Licensing for You

Obtaining a DOH license can be complex and time-consuming. That’s where Drexpat comes in your trusted licensing partner in the UAE.

Drexpat’s team provides end-to-end support, including:

Eligibility assessment and guidance
DataFlow verification assistance
Document preparation and attestation support
DOH portal registration and application handling
Personalized exam preparation coaching
Liaison with the Abu Dhabi Health Authority for faster approvals

By choosing Drexpat, healthcare professionals save valuable time and avoid common application errors allowing them to focus on their medical career instead of paperwork.

Conclusion

Obtaining a DOH license is not just a formality it’s a vital credential that defines your credibility and eligibility to practice healthcare in Abu Dhabi. It ensures compliance with Abu Dhabi Health Authority regulations, enhances your career potential, and guarantees the highest standards of patient safety.

With expert guidance from Drexpat, the process becomes faster, simpler, and stress-free. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, or allied health professional, Drexpat ensures you meet all DOH licensing requirements and successfully obtain your medical license Abu Dhabi.

Additionally, holding a DOH license can open doors to doctor jobs in Dubai and other UAE emirates, as professional credentials are recognized across licensing authorities, making it easier to explore new career opportunities in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a DOH license?

A DOH license is an official permit issued by the Department of Health Abu Dhabi, required for all healthcare professionals to legally practice in the Emirate. It ensures the highest quality and safety standards in patient care.

2. How do I apply for a DOH medical license in Abu Dhabi?

You can apply online via the DOH licensing portal or TAMM. You’ll need to complete DataFlow verification, pass the DOH exam, and have an employer sponsor you for activation. Drexpat can guide you through each step.

3. What documents are required for DOH licensing?

Typically, you’ll need your educational certificates, experience letters, passport, Good Standing Certificate, and DataFlow report.

4. Is DOH and HAAD license the same in UAE?

No. HAAD (Health Authority – Abu Dhabi) is the former name of the licensing authority. It was rebranded as the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH). The DOH license is now the official license required to practice in Abu Dhabi, though the exam content remains the same.

5. What is the DOH exam and how do I prepare for it?

The DOH exam, managed by Pearson VUE, is a computer-based test evaluating clinical knowledge. Preparation involves reviewing the syllabus and taking mock tests Drexpat offers targeted preparation support.

6. How long does the DOH license process take?

The process can take 4–8 weeks, depending on DataFlow verification time and document accuracy.

7. Can DHA license holders work in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, but they must transfer their DHA license to a DOH license Abu Dhabi through the official transfer process. Drexpat can assist with this conversion.

8. How can Drexpat help me get a DOH license faster?

Drexpat handles eligibility verification, document submission, and communication with DOH Abu Dhabi, ensuring a smooth, compliant, and efficient licensing process.