If you’re planning to work in Dubai as a healthcare professional, passing the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) exam is the first major step toward securing your license. While preparing for the exam is important, understanding the DHA exam fees is equally crucial so you can plan your budget and timeline effectively.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about DHA exam fees—what’s included, how much you’ll pay, and what other related costs to expect during your licensing journey.
What is the DHA Exam?
The DHA exam is a licensing examination for healthcare professionals who wish to work in Dubai. It ensures that doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals meet the required standards to practice safely and legally in the UAE.
The exam is conducted by Prometric, an international testing agency, and it involves computer-based multiple-choice questions (MCQs) tailored to your healthcare field.
Breakdown of DHA Exam Fees
Here’s a complete look at the typical DHA exam fee structure:
📝 1. DataFlow Verification Fee
Before you can book your exam, your credentials (education, license, experience) must be verified by DataFlow.
- Cost: AED 850 – AED 1,300 (varies by profession and number of documents)
- This is a one-time fee for primary source verification (PSV).
🖥️ 2. DHA Exam Fee (Prometric Test)
This is the actual cost of booking your computer-based DHA exam.
- General Exam Fee: AED 260 – AED 360
- Specialist/Consultant Exams: May go up to AED 400+
- Payable via: Prometric website when you schedule your test
- Currency: Often billed in USD (approx. $70 – $100)
📄 3. Eligibility Letter & Application Processing
Once you pass the exam, you’ll apply for an eligibility letter and registration.
- Eligibility Letter Fee: Around AED 200 – AED 250
- This confirms that you’ve met DHA requirements and are ready to work
🆔 4. License Activation Fee
After getting a job in Dubai, your employer will help activate your DHA license.
- License Activation: AED 1,000 – AED 2,000
- Usually paid by the employer, but clarify during your job offer negotiation
Optional/Additional Costs
While not part of the official DHA exam fees, you may also spend on:
- 🧠 DHA Coaching or Study Materials: $50 – $200+
- 📚 MCQ Practice Books & Online Subscriptions: $20 – $100
- 🧾 Document Translation/Attestation: AED 100 – AED 500 (if needed)
- ✈️ Travel or Accommodation: If you need to take the test outside your country
Payment Methods
- Payments for DataFlow and Prometric are made online using a credit/debit card.
- Fees are non-refundable, so ensure you meet all requirements before submitting payments.
Can DHA Exam Fees Be Refunded?
Generally, no—DHA exam fees and DataFlow charges are non-refundable. However, you may be able to reschedule your Prometric exam if you do so in advance (typically 5+ days before your test).
Tips to Save Money During the Process
- ✅ Double-check document requirements before submitting to avoid reprocessing fees
- ✅ Use bundled coaching and MCQ packages for cost-effective preparation
- ✅ Take the Prometric exam in your home country to avoid extra travel costs
- ✅ Track deadlines to avoid penalties for late submissions or missed appointments
Final Thoughts
While the DHA exam fees may seem like a big investment, they are a small price to pay for the opportunity to practice in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems. With careful planning, accurate documentation, and solid preparation, you can smoothly navigate the licensing process and land a rewarding career in Dubai’s medical sector.
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