UK doctors planning to practice privately in Dubai must complete DHA licensing, DataFlow verification, and facility approvals. Learn step-by-step requirements, costs, and timelines for establishing your clinic.
Step-by-Step Guide for UK Doctors to Practice Privately in Dubai
UK-trained doctors looking to establish a private practice in Dubai must navigate a structured licensing process governed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Beyond passing DHA exams, you’ll need facility approvals, a licensed medical director, and the correct business structure—either Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) Free Zone or a mainland setup with an Emirati partner. Each pathway has distinct regulatory, financial, and documentation requirements.
- Meet DHA Requirements for UK Medical Qualifications
To practice in Dubai, your UK medical degree must meet DHA recognition criteria. MBBS and MD degrees from accredited UK institutions are generally accepted as Tier 1 qualifications for specialists.
Key steps include:
- Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow: Confirms authenticity of your degrees, licenses, and postgraduate credentials directly with issuing institutions. Verification typically takes 4–6 weeks.
-Specialist Documentation: Required for consultants, including postgraduate qualifications and proof of clinical competency (procedure logs for the last two years).
-Active UK License: Maintain an unrestricted GMC license throughout the DHA application process.
Dubai offers the advantage of tax-free personal income for licensed practitioners.
2. Clear DHA Examination and Prometric Requirements
Once your qualifications are verified, you must schedule the DHA Prometric exam via the DHA portal.
Exam details:
- Duration: 150 minutes, 150 multiple-choice questions
- Fees: $110–$150 depending on specialty
- Passing criteria: Varies by discipline (see DHA CBT Assessment Guidelines)
Retakes: Maximum three attempts per calendar year, including attempts at other Gulf authorities
DataFlow verification can proceed concurrently with exam preparation to streamline the licensing timeline.
3. Complete Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow
Initiate PSV early to avoid delays.
Required documents:- Passport copy and recent photo (per DHA standards)
- Educational certificates (translated and authenticated if not in English)
Professional licenses and employment verification for the last five years
Timeline: 30–45 working days (up to 60 for complex cases). PSV reports are transferable to other Gulf States’ licensing authorities.4. Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing from the UK
A valid Certificate of Good Standing (GSC) from the GMC is required and must be issued within six months of DHA submission.
Process highlights:- Apply online via gmc-uk.org
- Pay £20–£50 processing fee
- Ensure all overseas practice jurisdictions are covered if applicable
- Legalize through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and British Embassy
Monitor expiration carefully to avoid application rejection.
5. Decide Between Dubai Healthcare City Free Zone and Mainland Setup
Free Zone (DHCC):
- 100% foreign ownership
- Tax-free income and full profit repatriation
Streamlined licensing and staffing processes
Mainland Dubai:
- Requires Emirati partner holding 51% ownership (recent reforms may allow partial foreign ownership)
- Annual license renewal tied to partner verification
- Additional legal and commercial requirement.
Ownership choice affects operational control, revenue distribution, and regulatory compliance.
6. Secure Facility Approval and Municipal Permissions
Requirements Include:- Trade License: From DED or DHCC
- DHA-approved floor plans: Minimum 30m² consultation rooms, approved by Dubai Municipality
- Fire Safety Certification: Compliance with Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) regulations
Medical Director Appointment: Must hold an active DHA license and meet experience criteria
Facility inspections and approvals are mandatory before you can open for patients.
7. Activate License and Employer Registration
Once a medical director is appointed:- Employer submits activation request via Sheryan portal
- DHA issues license within two working days
Requirements include job offer, Emirates ID registration, and professional indemnity insurance
License activation is necessary before starting practice; changing employers requires reactivation and NOC submission.
8. Budgeting for Licensing and Administrative Costs
Estimated fees for UK doctors:- DHA application: AED 1,000–1,100
- Prometric exam: AED 1,000–1,200
- Sheryan registration & credentialing: AED 400
DataFlow PSV: AED 1,235
Additional costs include professional indemnity insurance, GMC retention fees, and VAT registration for clinics exceeding AED 375,000 revenue.
FAQs for UK Doctors Establishing Private Practice in Dubai
Q: Can I practice in other Emirates with just a DHA license?
A: No. Each emirate requires separate licensing (DOH for Abu Dhabi, MOH for northern emirates).
Q: How long does setup take?
A: 4–6 months, including licensing, PSV, exam clearance, facility approvals, and inspections.
Q: What if DataFlow verification fails?
A: Resubmit corrected documents; processing takes 30–45 working days.
Q: Are there tax implications?
A: Dubai is tax-free, but UK residents must consider HMRC worldwide income rules.
Q: Can I maintain UK practice while working in Dubai?
A: Yes, but ensure GMC registration and DHA CPD requirements are maintained.
