Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for DHA Exam

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for DHA Exam

Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Mar 18, 2025 11:47 AM IST

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) exam is an important exam for healthcare professionals aiming to work in Dubai. The DHA plays a crucial role in making sure that all medical practitioners meet the necessary standards of skill and professionalism before they can start practicing in Dubai. Unfortunately, many applicants make several mistakes during the application process for the DHA exam, which can lead to delays in their process or, in some cases, rejection. It is crucial to be aware of these common mistakes and learn how to avoid them to ensure a smooth and successful application journey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for DHA Exam
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for DHA Exam

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for DHA Exam

Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when applying for the DHA exam:

1. Incomplete Documentation

One of the biggest mistakes applicants often make is sending in incomplete or incorrect documentation. When applying for the DHA exam, you need to provide specific documents that verify your details, experience, and qualifications. If you miss any documents or submit old ones, it can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.

How to Avoid It?

  • Carefully check the complete list of required documents before submission. This includes-

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  1. Recent passport-size photograph

  2. Valid passport copy

  3. Academic Transcripts

  4. Experience certificates

  5. License/registration

  6. Good Standing Certificate (GSC)

  7. Logbook for surgical specialties

  • Double-check that your name, qualifications, and other details on your documents match exactly with what you have provided in your application.

2. Failure to Meet Eligibility Requirements

The DHA has specific eligibility criteria for each healthcare profession. Many applicants make the mistake of registering for the DHA exam without confirming whether they meet these requirements, which can waste both time and money.

How to Avoid It?

  • Before you apply, thoroughly review the eligibility requirements for your specific healthcare role.

  • Make sure you meet the educational qualifications, work experience, license, and any other criteria set by the DHA for your profession.

3. Not Submitting the Correct Exam Fees

The DHA exam comes with specific fees that vary depending on the type of examination and your profession. Some candidates overlook this detail or fail to pay the correct fee, which can delay their application processing. However, keep in mind that the fees for different specializations vary.

How to Avoid It?

  • Check the correct fee structure for your specific exam.

  1. Self Assessment Fee: Free of cost

  2. Manual Review: AED 200

  3. Registration: AED 200

DHA Exam

Application Fees in AED

Exam Fees in AED

License Fee in AED

Total Fees in AED

General Practitioners

1,000 - 1,100

1,000 - 1,200

1,000 - 1,100

3,000 - 3,400

Dentists

1,000 - 1,100

1,200

1,000 - 1,100

3,200 - 3,400

Pharmacists

1,000 - 1,100

1,000 - 1,200

800 - 900

2,800 - 3,200

Nurses

800 - 1,000

800 - 900

600 - 700

2,200 - 2,600

Allied Health Professionals

700 - 900

700 - 900

600 - 700

2,000 - 2,500

  • Additionally, test-takers have to pay for the DHA Licence.

Type of License

Profession

Fees in AED

Full-time License

Physician/Dentist

3,000

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

1,000

Part-time License

Physician/Dentist

4,000

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

4,000

Trainee License

Physician/Dentist

3,000

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

1,000

Convert to Full-time License

Physician/Dentist

200

Nurse/Allied Health/TCAM

200

  • Ensure that you make your payment through the correct method, whether it is online or via bank transfer, and keep a record of the transaction.

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4. Incorrect Specialization Selection

One common mistake is picking the wrong specialization or category for your exam. This often happens when you are not quite sure about the exam's classification or accidentally choose a category that does not fit your qualifications.

How to Avoid It?

  • Double-check the specialization you are applying for. If you are uncertain about which category to select, do not hesitate to reach out to DHA support for guidance.

  • Make sure to choose the specialization that best matches your qualifications, experience, and current job role.

5. Not Updating Personal Information

If your personal information changes like your address, phone number, or email immediately update the DHA. Failing to update the DHA can cause communication issues, missed deadlines, or problems with your application.

How to Avoid It?

  • Keep your contact information updated with the DHA throughout the application process. Make sure your email address and phone number are accurate so you can receive timely updates about your application.

6. Missing the Application Deadline

DHA exam application deadlines are strict, and missing one can disable you from the application process resulting in applying for the next exam period. This not only delays the entire application process of the DHA exam but also delays the work opportunities in Dubai.

How to Avoid It?

  • Mark the application deadline on your calendar and ensure you submit all required documents before the deadline.

  • Start your application process early to give yourself plenty of time to gather documents, make payments, and complete any other necessary steps.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes can make your application process smoother and increase your chances of successfully passing the DHA exam and securing your job in Dubai's healthcare sector. If you take the time to prepare well, pay close attention to the instructions, and keep everything organized, you will make the whole process smoother for yourself. Keep in mind, that the DHA exam is a crucial exam in your career, so make sure to treat it with seriousness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it difficult to pass the DHA exam?

The DHA (Dubai Health Authority) exam is mandatory for healthcare professionals who want to work in Dubai. While it can be tough, it is considered manageable with the right preparation. DHA tests not just your theoretical knowledge but also your practical skills, so you need to have a solid understanding of medical standards. To pass the DHA exam, candidates need to achieve a minimum score of 60%.

2. What type of questions are asked in the DHA exam?

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) exam for healthcare professionals in Dubai usually has multiple-choice questions (MCQs) presented in English in a computer-adaptive test. To pass this exam, candidates need to score 60%. The DHA exam is 2-3 hours depending on the profession. Applicants can attempt the DHA exam up to three times.

3. How to clear a DHA exam?

To clear a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) exam, 

  • Understand the exam format and syllabus. The DHA exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in a 2-3 hour duration. 

  • Gather relevant study materials like textbooks, online resources, and sample questions. 

  • Create a structured study plan, practice with sample questions, and consider joining study groups or enrolling in preparation courses. 

  • Stay calm and confident by managing stress and maintaining a positive attitude.

4. How many days will take for the DHA exam result?

The timeline to get the DHA exam results may vary on the type of exam and the total number of applicants taking the test. However, on average, the DHA exam results are released within 2 to 5 business days from the date of the exam.

5. Can I write a DHA exam without experience?

No, for writing a DHA exam, you need to qualify for the eligibility requirements. One such requirement is relevant work experience. Most healthcare professionals need a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience after completing their degree to be eligible for the DHA exam.

  • Pharmacists, Nurses, and Allied Healthcare Professionals require 2 years of experience. 

  • General Practitioners require 3 years of experience. 

  • Specialists require 3 years of postgraduate experience.

  • Consultants require 5 years of experience. 

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