DHA vs HAAD Exam 2025: Key Differences, Eligibility, Fees & Licensing Guide

For medical professionals with aspirations to work in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), understanding the licensing exams is vital. Two of the most talked-about tests are the DHA and HAAD exams.

The DHA vs HAAD exam has always been a topic of discussion because both are tickets to practicing in various emirates, although their requirements, fees, and procedures are different.

The correct exam would be based on your career aspirations and where you intend to work.

This blog deconstructs the difference between DHA and HAAD exam, such as eligibility, fees, licensing, and exam pattern to guide you in an informed decision.

UAE Medical Licensing

In the UAE, doctors cannot practice unless they have a proper license granted by the health authority of the concerned emirate.

DHA licensing is required in Dubai, while Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have HAAD (now officially referred to as DOH – Department of Health Abu Dhabi).

Both are accepted in their regions, but they are not always interchangeable per se, which is why the DHA vs HAAD licensing comparison is important.

Why DHA vs HAAD Is a Common Comparison

The UAE is a favorite among doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals because of its advanced healthcare system and lucrative pay packages. Professionals usually wonder if they should opt for the DHA exam or HAAD exam because both are location-based but of the same intent. Knowing DHA vs DOH exam UAE ensures you don’t waste time and can better plan your career.

What Are DHA and HAAD Exams?

DHA (Dubai Health Authority)

The DHA exam is taken by healthcare professionals wishing to practice in Dubai. It verifies that applicants are up to Dubai’s standards of healthcare.

It’s a computer-based test, usually operated by Prometric, and specialized in every specialty. Passing the test makes you eligible for a DHA license that enables you to practice only in Dubai.

DHA exam format and structure

HAAD/DOH (Department of Health Abu Dhabi)

The HAAD exam, now known as the DOH exam, is required for professionals seeking to practice in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The exam is conducted via Pearson VUE and is slightly different in structure compared to DHA. On passing, candidates receive a HAAD/DOH license valid in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Key Differences Between DHA and HAAD Exams

Comparing DHA exam vs HAAD exam, following are the key differences:

*Regions of validity: DHA license can be practiced only in Dubai; HAAD/DOH license can be practiced in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

* Format of the exam: DHA is Prometric-based; HAAD/DOH is via Pearson VUE.

* Difficulty level: DHA exam would mostly be simple MCQs, whereas HAAD exam would have case-based and scenario-based questions and hence is a bit tougher.

* Licensing authority: DHA is overseen by Dubai Health Authority; HAAD by Department of Health Abu Dhabi.

This comparison explains why the DHA vs HAAD exam difficulty and licensing process are important to professionals.

Eligibility Requirements for DHA vs HAAD Exam

Applicants for either exam should meet precise eligibility criteria. The DHA vs HAAD eligibility is generally the same but with minor differences.

* Qualification: Valid degree in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or allied health sciences.

* Minimum work experience: Typically 2 years post-internship clinical experience for physicians; different for nurses and technicians.

* Certificate of good standing: Evidence from your home country that you do not have disciplinary actions.

* DataFlow verification: Both need Primary Source Verification (PSV) by the DataFlow Group to verify your documents.

Comparison of the application process

DHA Application Process

Register for a Sheryan account on the Dubai Health Authority website.
Enter documents (education, license, experience, Good Standing Certificate).
Complete DataFlow verification.
Register for the exam through Prometric.
Book and sit for the exam.
Upon passing, obtain eligibility letter to apply for DHA license.

HAAD Application Process

Register at the Department of Health (DOH) Abu Dhabi website.
Upload documents for verification.
Complete DataFlow PSV.
Apply and pay.
Book exam through Pearson VUE.
After passing, apply for a HAAD/DOH license.

Both are online, though the portals and testing providers vary.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

DHA Exam Pattern

Pattern: MCQs.

* Duration: 2–3 hours based on specialty.

* Content: Specialty-based medical knowledge, general practice, and occasional basic ethics.

HAAD/DOH Exam Pattern

Pattern: MCQs along with case and scenario questions.

* Duration: Like DHA, usually 2–3 hours.

* Content: Specialist knowledge, clinical judgment, ethics, and practical methods.

The difference between DHA and HAAD exam in pattern is that HAAD focuses on testing applied knowledge more in-depth.

Fees and Cost Breakdown (DHA vs HAAD)

The DHA vs HAAD exam fees are a crucial decision factor.

* DHA exam fees: Approximately AED 220–260 based on specialty, with additional DataFlow and application charges.

* HAAD exam fees: Approximately AED 250–300, along with extra charges for DataFlow and application.

Though fees are similar, HAAD exams might be marginally more costly because they are administered through Pearson VUE.

Conclusion

The DHA vs HAAD exam selection is based on the location where you wish to work in the UAE. If Dubai is your place of practice, opt for DHA; if Abu Dhabi or Al Ain is your place of practice, then opt for HAAD. As far as difficulty is concerned, HAAD can appear more challenging because of case-based questions, but anything is possible with sufficient preparation. Your final choice should be driven by the location of your job and your future objectives.