Your Complete Guide to the DHA Exam (2025) – By PrometricMedics
Everything you need to know about the DHA exam: eligibility, registration, preparation tips, and career benefits for healthcare professionals in Dubai.
If you're a healthcare professional aiming to work in Dubai, passing the DHA exam is your first major step. Whether you're a nurse, doctor, pharmacist, or lab technician, this licensing exam ensures you meet Dubai's high medical standards. At PrometricMedics, we specialize in helping candidates across the Gulf countries prepare for the DHA and other Prometric exams through expert MCQs and online training. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the DHA exam—from eligibility to registration, preparation, and beyond.
What Is the DHA Exam?
The DHA (Dubai Health Authority) exam is a licensing test for medical professionals who wish to practice in the Emirate of Dubai. Whether you're local or internationally qualified, you must pass this exam to legally work in the healthcare sector. The exam is conducted via Prometric, a global testing platform, and follows international standards of healthcare competency.
What's on the DHA Exam?
The DHA exam is usually a computer-based multiple-choice test (MCQ) designed to assess your professional knowledge, decision-making, and clinical judgment. It covers topics that are directly relevant to your field, such as patient care, safety, pharmacology, or diagnostics. The number of questions, subjects, and passing criteria may vary depending on whether you're a nurse, doctor, pharmacist, or technician—but most exams last between 2 to 3 hours with a passing score of around 60–70%.
How to Apply for the DHA Exam
The DHA application process is handled online through the Sheryan system, Dubai Health Authority's online portal.
- Create a Sheryan account at dha.gov.ae.
- Submit your documents for DataFlow verification.
- Apply for an Eligibility Letter.
- Once approved, schedule your exam via the Prometric portal.
- Pay the application and test fees.
Need help with the registration process? PrometricMedics offers step-by-step support and document guidance for smooth processing.
What's on the DHA Exam?
- Format: Computer-based test (CBT)
- Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Passing Score: Usually 60-70%, depending on the discipline
Example Question (Nursing):
Which of the following is the first step in managing a patient with chest pain?
A. Provide painkillers
B. Assess vital signs
C. Start CPR
D. Call for help
Correct Answer: B – Always assess first!
With PrometricMedics, you get access to realistic MCQs like these, tailored to your exact field.
DHA Exam Syllabus (By Profession)
The DHA exam syllabus is tailored to each specific healthcare profession, ensuring that the content tests real-world knowledge and clinical skills relevant to your field. For example, nurses are tested on patient care, pharmacology, and infection control, while doctors face clinical scenarios in internal medicine, surgery, and emergency care. Pharmacists, lab technicians, dentists, and other specialists are evaluated based on topics like drug safety, lab diagnostics, radiology, and professional ethics—all aligned with international healthcare standards.
Nurses:
For nurses, the exam covers fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, patient safety, infection control, and emergency response. Expect questions on clinical procedures, medication administration, and proper documentation. Scenario-based MCQs test your judgment in real-world healthcare settings, especially in critical care situations.
Pharmacists:
The pharmacist syllabus includes pharmacology, drug interactions, prescription handling, dosage calculations, and storage regulations. You'll be tested on your understanding of safe medication practices, adverse reactions, and UAE drug laws. The exam also checks your ability to advise both patients and healthcare teams correctly.
Lab Technicians:
Lab technician candidates are evaluated on laboratory procedures, sample handling, diagnostic methods, quality control, and biosafety. Topics include hematology, microbiology, clinical chemistry, and molecular biology. A strong focus is placed on accuracy, safety, and interpretation of lab reports in patient care.
Dentists:
The DHA exam for dentists includes oral diagnosis, restorative dentistry, periodontics, oral surgery, radiology, and infection control. You'll be tested on your ability to diagnose, treat, and manage dental conditions in line with international best practices.
DHA Exam Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the DHA exam, you must meet the Dubai Health Authority's official eligibility standards, which ensure only qualified healthcare professionals are allowed to work in Dubai. These criteria include having a recognized medical qualification (degree or diploma), a valid license from your home country, and a minimum amount of clinical experience, usually ranging from 1 to 3 years depending on your profession. You must also go through the DataFlow verification process, which checks your education, license, and work history for authenticity before you're allowed to proceed with the exam.
How to Prepare for the DHA Exam
- Use Updated MCQs: Practice with latest MCQs that reflect real exam patterns. Our platform provides topic-wise quizzes and explanations.
- Time-Based Mock Exams: Simulate real test conditions. This helps with time management and reduces exam anxiety.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Use performance analytics to improve where you struggle.
- Follow a Study Plan: Prepare with a 30- or 60-day study plan tailored to your profession.
Need a personalized plan? Let PrometricMedics design one for you.
Booking Your DHA Exam
- Once your eligibility is confirmed, you'll receive an email to book your test on the Prometric website.
- Choose a test center near you (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, India, Pakistan, etc.)
- Select your preferred date and time
- Pay the exam fee (approx. USD 210 – 260, depending on profession)
- You'll receive a confirmation email with your test details and instructions.
What to Bring on Exam Day
- A valid passport
- Your Prometric confirmation email
- The Eligibility Letter from DHA
- Your appointment ID and test center details
Make sure to arrive early—late arrivals may be disqualified.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete documents – This delays the process.
- Underestimating the MCQs – Many are clinical and scenario-based.
- Cramming last minute – Consistent study beats last-minute panic.
- Not practicing mock tests – Knowing is not enough. Practice!
With PrometricMedics, we help you avoid these errors through smart preparation strategies.
After the DHA Exam: What's Next?
- You'll get your results within 2-5 days.
- If You Pass:
- Proceed to license activation
- Start applying for jobs in Dubai's top hospitals or clinics
- Many employers now look for pre-licensed candidates—you have an edge!
- If You Don't Pass:
- No problem! You can reappear after 3 months.
- Analyze your weak points with our performance tracking
- We help you retake with confidence and clarity
Career Benefits After Passing DHA Exam
- Government hospitals
- Private clinics
- Specialty centers
- Telehealth platforms
Professionals licensed by DHA are also respected across other Gulf countries, which may allow easier license conversion.
Why Choose PrometricMedics?
- Up-to-date Prometric MCQs
- Tailored preparation plans
- One-on-one support via WhatsApp or email
- Online exam simulations
- Document & DataFlow support
We've helped thousands pass their DHA, MOH, and Saudi Prometric exams — and you could be next!
Final Thoughts
The DHA exam is more than just a hurdle — it's your gateway to a fulfilling medical career in Dubai. With the right guidance, resources, and study habits, you can clear the exam with confidence. PrometricMedics is here to walk with you every step of the way.
Ready to Get Started?
Visit PrometricMedics.com today to begin your DHA journey.
Contact us for a free consultation, and let's help you achieve your dream healthcare job in Dubai!