How to Apply for MOH License in UAE in 2026: Eligibility, Exam & Fees

Obtaining an MOH license in the UAE is a mandatory requirement for healthcare professionals and medical facilities planning to operate legally within the country. Issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), the MOH UAE license ensures that doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and healthcare institutions meet the UAE’s regulatory, clinical, and ethical standards.

This comprehensive pillar guide explains what the MOH license is, MOH license requirements, eligibility criteria, exam and application process, facility licensing, costs, and renewal giving you a complete 360-degree understanding of the MOH licensing process in the UAE.

What is the MOH license in the UAE?

The MOH license in the UAE is an official authorization issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention that allows healthcare professionals and facilities to practice legally in MOH-regulated emirates.

These emirates include:

• Sharjah

• Ajman

• Fujairah

• Ras Al Khaimah

• Umm Al Quwain

The MOH UAE license confirms that the applicant meets national healthcare standards related to education, experience, competency, and professional conduct.

What is the MOH License?

The MOH License is a regulatory approval that ensures:

• Patient safety

• Clinical competence

• Ethical medical practice

It applies to:

• Doctors and specialists

• Nurses and midwives

• Dentists

• Pharmacists

• Allied healthcare professionals

• Clinics, hospitals, and diagnostic centers

Without a valid MOH license in the UAE, practicing medicine or operating a healthcare facility is illegal and punishable by law.

How to apply for a MOH exam license?

Applying for a MOH exam license is a key stage in the MOH licensing process for individual healthcare professionals.

Step-by-Step MOH Exam Application Process

1. Create an account on the MOHAP portal

2. Submit personal and professional details

3. Upload required documents

4. Complete DataFlow verification

5. Pay the MOH exam fee

6. Schedule the exam via Prometric

MOH Exam Format (2025 Update)

• Computer-based MCQs

• Specialty-specific questions

• Conducted at Prometric centers or online (remote proctoring available)

Passing the exam is mandatory to proceed toward obtaining the MOH UAE license.

MOH License Requirements: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding MOH license requirements is critical before starting the application.

Step 1: Educational Qualification

Applicants must hold a recognized medical or healthcare degree from an accredited institution.

Step 2: Professional Experience

Most roles require 2–3 years of post-graduate experience, depending on the specialty.

Step 3: DataFlow Verification

Primary Source Verification (PSV) of:

• Education

• Experience

• Previous licenses

Timeline: 4–6 weeks Cost: AED 1,000–2,000

Step 4: MOH Exam

Assessment of clinical knowledge and competency.

Step 5: License Issuance

Once all steps are completed, MOHAP issues the MOH license in the UAE.

What are the MOH license requirements in the UAE?

The official MOH license requirements include:

• Recognized qualification

• Minimum clinical experience

• Positive DataFlow report

• Valid Good Standing Certificate

• Passing MOH exam (if applicable)

• No malpractice or disciplinary history

Meeting these requirements is essential to avoid application rejection.

What are the MOH license eligibility criteria in the UAE?

Eligibility Criteria Table

Criteria	Details
Education	Accredited healthcare degree
Experience	2–3 years post-qualification
Good Standing	Clean professional record
Practice Gap	Usually not more than 2 years
Age Limit	As per MOHAP guidelines

Eligibility criteria may vary slightly for doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.

What is the process for obtaining an MOH license as a facility in the UAE?

Healthcare facilities must follow a separate MOH licensing process from individual professionals.

Facility MOH Licensing Process

1. Trade license issuance

2. Facility layout and infrastructure approval

3. Equipment compliance

4. Hiring MOH-licensed professionals

5. Facility inspection by MOHAP

6. Final approval and license issuance

Facilities eligible for MOH licensing include:

• Clinics

• Hospitals

• Diagnostic centers

• Pharmacies

A facility cannot operate legally without a valid MOH UAE license.

How much does it cost to obtain an MOHAP medical license?

The cost of obtaining an MOH license in the UAE varies based on profession and assessment needs.

MOH License Cost Breakdown

Total cost typically ranges between AED 1,500 and AED 3,000.

MOH License in Dubai: Important Clarification

Although many professionals search for an MOH license in Dubai, Dubai healthcare facilities are regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

• MOH UAE license: Northern Emirates

• DHA license: Dubai

• DOH/HAAD license: Abu Dhabi

Licenses are not automatically interchangeable, though conversion pathways may exist.

MOH License Validity and Renewal

• Validity: 2–3 years

• Renewal window: Up to 3 months before expiry

• Requirements:

  • Active employment

  • CPD hours

  • Malpractice insurance

Late renewal may lead to penalties or license suspension.

Common Challenges Faced by International Applicants

• Degree attestation delays

• DataFlow negative reports

• Experience gaps

• Incorrect document uploads

Professional assistance significantly improves approval speed and success rates.

Conclusion: Start Your MOH Licensing Journey with Confidence

The MOH license in the UAE is essential for healthcare professionals and facilities aiming to work legally and successfully in the country. By understanding the MOH license requirements, eligibility criteria, exam process, facility licensing rules, and costs, you can confidently navigate the entire MOH licensing process.

If you want end-to-end support from eligibility assessment to final approval Dr Expat specializes in helping healthcare professionals and medical institutions obtain their MOH UAE license smoothly and efficiently.

👉 Contact Dr Expat today for expert MOH licensing assistance in the UAE.