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Required for nursing practice in Dubai — computer-based MCQ exam with 70% passing threshold
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licensing exam is mandatory for all foreign-trained nurses who want to practice in Dubai. It is a computer-based multiple choice exam that tests clinical nursing knowledge. The DHA exam is considered one of the easier licensing exams compared to NCLEX or OSCE, and most Indian nurses with structured preparation clear it in the first attempt.
Passing Score
70% or above
Preparation Time
1–3 months
Registration Fee
≈ ₹12K
Result Validity
DHA license valid for 2 years, renewable
Pass Rate (Indian nurses)
Approximately 75-80% for Indian nurses with 6-8 weeks preparation
Mandatory for
Dubai / UAE
Medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, patient assessment, clinical procedures. Majority of questions.
Nursing ethics, UAE healthcare regulations, professional standards.
Public health principles, health promotion, UAE-specific health policies.
DHA (Dubai Health Authority) is for working in Dubai specifically. HAAD (Health Authority Abu Dhabi) was for Abu Dhabi and has now merged into DOH (Department of Health Abu Dhabi). MOH (Ministry of Health) covers all other emirates (Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain). Each exam is separate. Your license from one authority may not transfer to another emirate automatically.
The DHA exam is considered moderately difficult and more manageable than NCLEX or OSCE. The pass rate for Indian nurses is approximately 75-80% with 6-8 weeks of structured preparation. The exam tests clinical nursing knowledge with a strong emphasis on pharmacology and professional practice. Most Indian nurses with a strong clinical background pass in the first attempt.
The DHA exam must be taken at an authorized Pearson VUE test centre. There are Pearson VUE centres in several Indian cities. You do not need to travel to Dubai to take the exam. After passing, your license is processed by DHA and you can then travel to Dubai to start work.
Source & Attribution
Sources
Information reviewed against official exam body publications, candidate handbooks, and regulatory guidelines. Fees and timelines are indicative and should be verified against the issuing authority before applying.