DHA, MOH, and HAAD Exams | Which One to Choose?

When it comes to making a career in healthcare in the UAE, aspiring medical professionals face the dilemma of choosing the right licensure exam. There are three most common exams that they need to take. These include DHA exam (Dubai Health Authority), MOH exam (Ministry of Health), and HAAD exam (Health Authority Abu Dhabi). These three exams are designed to ensure that medical practitioners meet the requirements and standards to be eligible to practice in the UAE. In this article, we will explore the DHA exam, MOH exam, and HAAD exams and know the differences in detail.

This Story also Contains

1. DHA VS MOH VS HAAD: The Highlights
2. Comparison of DHA, MOH, and HAAD Exams
3. Which exam to choose?

DHA VS MOH VS HAAD: The Highlights

DHA (Dubai Health Authority)

The DHA is the governing body that monitors the healthcare professionals working in Dubai. In this exam, the skills and knowledge of the candidates are tested that are necessary to practice in Dubai. This exam happens four times a year–January, February, July and October. The upcoming DHA exam dates are in February.

For the first-time candidates, the success rate of the DHA exam is approximately around 70%. It is a must for them to submit the educational documents and experience certificates for approval before the exam registration. The fees that candidates need to pay for the DHA exam is AED 1,200 to AED 1,500. If you are looking to practice healthcare in Dubai, you must take the DHA exam.

MOH (Ministry of Health and Prevention)

The MOH exam is for those looking to work in any of the emirates other than Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Depending on the healthcare field that candidates choose, the success rate of the Ministry of Health and Prevention is 65-75%. Candidates need to pay the fees of AED 1,000 and AED 1,400.

The exam is specially designed for candidates who want to work outside of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. If you clear the examination, you get the opportunity to practice in the smaller emirates.

HAAD (Health Authority Abu Dhabi)

The HAAD exam is for healthcare professionals wishing to work in Abu Dhabi, which is another major center for healthcare in the UAE. Abu Dhabi offers a variety of healthcare services and facilities, and the HAAD license is required for employment in this emirate.

Aspiring healthcare professionals who have appropriate qualifications and experience can take this test. The success rate for this examination is around 75%. The fees of the examination is between AED 1,000 to AED 1,500. Candidates who wish to practice in Abu Dhabi are required to take HAAD.

Comparison of DHA, MOH, and HAAD Exams

Below table shows the difference between DHA, MOH, and HAAD examinations:

Which exam to choose?

There is a slight difference between these examinations. It depends on the career goals, specialisations, language preference that a candidate has that decides which examination he/she should take.

1. Career Goals:

• DHA: If you are interested in working in Dubai, the DHA exam is your primary route.

• MOH: If you are considering a career outside Dubai and Abu Dhabi, such as in the smaller emirates, the MOH exam will suit your needs.

• HAAD: For those who want to focus on Abu Dhabi, HAAD is the necessary exam.

2. Specialization:

While all three exams assess healthcare professionals' qualifications and clinical skills, certain specialties might have additional or slightly different requirements depending on the region. You’ll need to confirm the specific eligibility criteria based on your field.

3. Language Preference:

If you are comfortable with Arabic, the MOH exam offers this option, while DHA and HAAD are only available in English.

Choosing between the DHA, MOH, and HAAD exams largely depends on where you wish to practice in the UAE. Each licensing authority is tied to a specific region, and passing the respective exam will enable you to legally practice in that region. By understanding the requirements, costs, and success rates of each exam, you can make a well-informed decision based on your career goals and preferred location.

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