Are you a healthcare professional who is interested in working in the United Arab Emirates? First and foremost, you need the MOH license in the UAE. It is not possible to practice legally without this license in hospitals, clinics, or any facility of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
In this guide, you will be led step by step through everything you need to know about applying for the MOH license. Regardless of whether you wish to apply through:
- MOHAP website
- MOHAP Mobile App
- Via the customer service center
What is the MOH License in the UAE?
The MOH license is a professional permit issued to healthcare professionals to practice their medical profession in fields throughout the UAE. Without this license, you are not allowed to practice in hospitals, clinics, or any other healthcare facility under MOHAP’s jurisdiction.
It applies to:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Dentists
- Pharmacists
- Allied health personnel (lab technicians, radiographers, etc)
This license is considered and required if you would like to work in the Northern Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain). If you’re planning to work in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, you’ll need a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) or DOH (Department of Health – Abu Dhabi) license instead.
1. Applying Through the MOHAP Website
MOHAP official website is the most popular and trustworthy platform on which to apply for your MOH license. It is a tool that will allow you to finish the process from beginning to end without the need to go to any office physically.
Steps to Apply via Website
Visit the MOHAP Website
- Go to https://mohap.gov.ae.
- It is the official site for the provision of health care, including licensing of professions.
Register or Log In
- If you’re new here, click Register and create an account.
Select the Licensing Service
- On the Home Page, navigate to e-Services.
- Under the health care box, select Health Professional Licensing.
Fill Out the Application Form
- Enter your personal information, like name, nationality, and contact information.
- Include your education (medical degree, nursing degree, etc.).
- List your professional experience information.
- Submit applicable certificates.
Upload Required Documents
The system will request you to upload scanned images of:
- Passport copy (valid)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Degrees and Diplomas (certificates, transcripts)
- Certificates of experience (former employers).
- Good Standing Certificate (if any)
- any certificates of any specialty-related nature
Pay the Fees
- Pay online using the secure payment gateway.
- Rates are determined by profession and specialization.
Submit and Wait for Approval
- You’ll need to submit your application to MOHAP, which will review it.
- An email or SMS notification will appear for each.
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2. Applying Through the MOHAP Mobile App
The MOHAP mobile app is the most suitable option for you if you want a faster and easier solution. This enables you to manage your application from your phone without a computer.
Steps to Apply via Mobile App
Download the MOHAP App
- The app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
- Find MOHAP UAE and download it.
Sign In or Create an Account
- Sign in with your UAE Pass or MOHAP account
- Register now if you are a new user.
Go to Professional Licensing
- Using the main menu, click on Health Professional Licensing.
Complete the Application
- Enter your fundamental information (name, date of birth, nationality).
- Please write your qualifications and professional experience.
Upload Documents
- Clear scanned copies of the following items:
- Passport copy
- Degree and transcripts
- Experience letters
- Photo
- Good Standing Certificate (if needed)
Pay the Application Fee
- You can pay directly through the app
Receive Updates
- The app enables you to monitor your application.
- Notifications: You receive a notification when your application status changes.
- You will receive notice if an exam is needed or if you are approved for your license.
The mobile app comes in handy because you can handle the whole process on a mobile phone.
3. Applying Through MOHAP Customer Service Centers
In case of personal assistance, you may apply for one of the MOHAP customer care units. This means that you can actually approach representatives directly, who will take you through the process.
Steps to Apply via Customer Service
Visit the Nearest MOHAP Customer Service Center
- Go to the closest MOHAP Customer Service Agency.
- These are the biggest centres in Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
Request Application Support
- Tell the representative that you would like to obtain a healthcare professional license.
Submit Your Documents
- Bring original and copy versions of the following needed materials:
- Passport
- Qualification certificates
- Professional experience letters
- Good Standing Certificate (if applicable)
Fill Out the Application Form
- The representative will help you complete the form in the right way.
Pay the Fees
- One can make a payment either at the center.
Receive Confirmation
- You are going to receive an application receipt.
Documents Required
Whichever method you choose to do it, online, via the app, or face to face, you require the following, either way:
- Valid passport copy
- Passport-size photograph
- Academic certificates
- Good Standing Certificate
- Specialty certificates
Tips for a Smooth MOH License Application
Some hints to help you are as follows:
- Prepare documents in advance – You have to clear-scan all your certificates.
- Check expiry dates – Make sure that your passport and documents are valid.
- Use UAE Pass – It is faster to use when logging in and checking.
- Track your application – Make sure you follow up.
- Be ready for the exam – There are certain professions where you will need to take an MOH exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get the MOH license?
It typically requires a 2-week period between application and approval, once documents have been verified, and depending on examination requirements.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You will be given feedback on the reason why it was rejected. After fixing the problems, you are allowed to reapply.
Can I transfer my MOH license to DHA or DOH?
Yes, in some cases, you may transfer your license between health authorities (MOH, DHA, DOH), but it is subject to certain rules.
Do I need to take an exam?
Yes, the majority of the medical workers have to pass the MOH licensing exam. Before doctors, nurses, and pharmacists are allowed to get their license, they have to pass.
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Final Words
Getting the MOH license in the UAE can be viewed as a complicated series of procedures, but once familiar with the procedure, it becomes much simpler. You may apply via the MOHAP site, on the mobile application, or at a customer service centre.
In your case, the first site that I would visit is MOHAP, as it provides the latest instructions and requirements. With the license in hand, you are technically now eligible to start or resume your career in the UAE healthcare industry.
