Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH), previously known as HAAD (Health Authority Abu Dhabi) license process.

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If you’re looking to practice in Abu Dhabi, the process of obtaining a healthcare license is governed by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH), previously known as HAAD (Health Authority Abu Dhabi). While there are similarities with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licensing process, there are specific steps, requirements, and differences unique to Abu Dhabi. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get licensed and start working in healthcare roles in Abu Dhabi.

Step 1: Understand the Different License Types

The DOH license is required for healthcare professionals working in Abu Dhabi, whether you’re a doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, allied health professional, or other medical practitioners. The licensing process applies to both those who want to work in government and private healthcare facilities.

Step 2: Verify Eligibility

Before applying for your DOH (HAAD) license, make sure you meet the following basic eligibility criteria:

1. Educational Qualifications:

• You must hold a relevant degree from an accredited institution (e.g., MBBS for doctors, BSc for nurses, and other relevant degrees for allied health professionals like physiotherapists, lab technicians, etc.).
• The degree should be recognized by the DOH (HAAD), and you may need to have it attested if your degree was obtained abroad.

1. Professional Experience:

• Most healthcare positions require at least 2-3 years of professional experience after completing your education. Some specialized roles may require more extensive experience.
• You may need to provide proof of your work experience (e.g., employment certificates or reference letters).

1. Valid Passport:

• You must have a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity).

1. English Proficiency:

• English is widely used in healthcare settings in Abu Dhabi. Some roles may require proof of English proficiency through exams like IELTS or TOEFL.

1. Good Standing Certificate:

• A certificate from the regulatory body in your home country (e.g., Medical Council, Nursing Council, etc.) confirming that you are in good standing and have no history of disciplinary actions.

1. Other Documentation:

• Depending on your profession, you may need to submit additional documents, such as a police clearance or a certificate of professional indemnity.

Step 3: Apply for DOH (HAAD) License

1. Create an Account with DOH

• Go to the official Department of Health (DOH) website and create a personal account.
• You will need to register with the DOH Health Professional Licensing System (HPLS).

2. Submit Your Application

• Complete the application form with your personal details and professional qualifications.
• You will need to upload the following documents:
  • Degree and transcript (attested if obtained abroad).
  • Work experience certificates.
  • Passport copy.
  • Professional qualification certificates.
  • Good Standing Certificate (if applicable).
  • Any additional certifications required for your specific role.

3. Document Verification (Dataflow)

• The DOH uses Dataflow Group, a third-party verification service, to authenticate the documents you submitted.
• Dataflow will verify your educational and professional qualifications, and this process may take several weeks. You’ll receive updates through the DOH portal as the verification progresses.

4. License Eligibility Assessment

• Once your documents are verified by Dataflow, the DOH will assess your eligibility for the license. Depending on your role and qualifications, you may be required to take an exam (similar to the DHA exam in Dubai) or be eligible for direct licensure based on your experience and credentials.
• Direct Licensure: Some healthcare professionals may be exempt from the exam if they meet certain conditions (e.g., already licensed in another country or another UAE emirate).

Step 4: Take the DOH (HAAD) Exam (If Applicable)

If you’re required to take the DOH exam, here’s what you need to know:

1. Exam Format:

• The exam is typically an online test and can be conducted at an authorized testing center.
• It is a multiple-choice exam focused on testing your knowledge in your specific healthcare field (e.g., medicine, nursing, pharmacy, etc.).

1. Exam Preparation:

• The DOH offers a range of resources to help you prepare for the exam, and there are study guides available for various medical and healthcare professions.
• You can also take preparation courses online through various training providers.

1. Pass the Exam:

• You need to achieve a passing score (usually 60% or higher) to proceed to the next steps. If you fail, you can retake the exam after a specified period (usually 3 months).

Step 5: Pay the Application and Exam Fees

Once your documents are verified and you’re ready to take the exam (if applicable), you’ll need to pay the necessary fees:

• Application Fee: There is typically an application fee to submit your documents for verification and processing.
• Exam Fee: If you’re required to take the exam, there will be a fee associated with it as well.
• The fees can vary depending on the type of healthcare profession and whether you are a first-time applicant or reapplying.

Step 6: Receive Your DOH (HAAD) License

Once you pass the exam or if you are exempt from it, the DOH will issue your license, which will be valid for a certain period (typically 1-3 years). You can then apply for a job in Abu Dhabi.

• You will be given a DOH License Certificate, which you can use to apply for jobs with healthcare providers in the region.
• Your license will specify the scope of practice for your role (e.g., clinical responsibilities for doctors or nursing duties for nurses).

Step 7: Apply for Jobs in Abu Dhabi

1. Find Jobs: Start searching for healthcare roles in hospitals, clinics, or medical centers in Abu Dhabi.

• Popular Employers in Abu Dhabi: Some of the major hospitals and healthcare groups in Abu Dhabi include Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, MedeAnalytics, NMC Health, and Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA).

1. Work Visa: Once you receive a job offer, the healthcare employer will sponsor your work visa and residency permit. Your DOH license will be tied to your employment, and the employer will handle most of the paperwork for your visa and work permit.
2. Medical Examination: After securing a job and work visa, you will be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet the health standards of the UAE, including checks for diseases like tuberculosis and HIV.

Step 8: Maintain Your DOH (HAAD) License

• Renewal: Your DOH license is valid for a period of 1-3 years. Ensure that you renew your license before it expires. The renewal process may require you to submit updated documents or proof of continuing professional development (CPD) hours.
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Healthcare professionals in Abu Dhabi must meet ongoing education and training requirements to maintain their license. CPD hours may be required to renew your license and ensure you stay up to date with the latest medical practices.

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Key Points to Remember

• DOH (HAAD) is the regulatory body for healthcare professionals in Abu Dhabi, similar to DHA in Dubai.
• Document Verification through Dataflow is mandatory for most healthcare professions.
• Exams may be required for some roles, while others may be eligible for direct licensure if they meet specific criteria.
• The DOH License is valid for 1-3 years, and you will need to renew it through a continuing professional development (CPD) process.
• Once licensed, you can apply for healthcare roles in Abu Dhabi’s hospitals and clinics.

By following these steps and ensuring that you meet all eligibility requirements, you can successfully obtain your DOH (HAAD) license and pursue a healthcare career in Abu Dhabi.