What are The UAE Healthcare Licensing Requirement

For healthcare professionals planning to practice in the UAE, a clear understanding of these requirements is crucial:
1. Educational Qualifications:
  • Programs must be nationally accredited.
  • Qualifications should be from recognized institutions.
  • Entry level may require a high school certificate.

 

2. Internship/Training:
  • Physicians and dentists need a one-year post-graduation internship.
  • No internship evidence requires two additional years of experience.
  • Some programs include internships during undergraduate training.
  • Different training standards apply to nurses and allied health professionals based on nationality and education location.

 

3. Experience:
  • Experience must be relevant and gained in licensed healthcare settings.
  • Hands-on clinical practice is required, excluding volunteer work.
  • UAE nationals and Children of Emirati women may have basic entry exemptions.
  • Non-UAE nationals follow title-specific experience requirements as per the Professional Qualifications Requirements (PQR).

 

4. Professional License and Good Standing Status:
  • A valid professional license is mandatory.
  • Good Standing Certificate (GSC) requirements must be met.
  • Documents need to be verified at the source.

 

5. Examination:
  • Healthcare professionals must pass the Authority’s assessment.
  • Assessment mode varies by title.
  • English is the assessment language.
  • Three attempts are allowed across Authorities.
  • Exam retakes may be allowed in a different Authority.

 

6. Exam Equivalency Criteria:
  • Some international exams may grant assessment exemptions.

 

7. Discontinuity of Practice:
  • Those with a gap exceeding two years must fulfill CME/CPD requirements, complete a clinical training program, and pass the Authority’s licensure assessment.
Meeting these requirements ensures high standards of healthcare practice in the UAE and a successful licensing process.

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