How European Nurses can register with the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DOH)

22.04.25 11:01 AM
Instructions for European Nurses to Register with the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DOH)

If you are a European nurse looking to work in Abu Dhabi as a Registered Nurse, you will need to go through the registration process with the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DOH). The following steps outline the process:


1. Check Eligibility

   - Ensure you meet the basic requirements:

     - A recognized nursing qualification.

     - Current and valid nursing license/registration in your home country.

     - At least two years of clinical experience post-qualification.

     - Good standing certificate from your regulatory authority.


2. Prepare Required Documents

   - Valid passport (minimum six months validity).

   - Nursing qualification certificates (Bachelor's degree or equivalent).

   - Academic transcripts.

   - Nursing registration/license from your home country.

   - Good standing certificate from your nursing regulatory body.

   - Proof of clinical experience (employment certificates).

   - Recent passport-sized photographs.

   - English proficiency certificate (IELTS or TOEFL) if your qualification was not in English.


3. Apply Online

   - Create an account on the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi website ([DOH Licensing Portal](https://www.doh.gov.ae/en/healthcare-professionals)).

   - Upload your documents as required during the application process.

   - Pay the application fee through the online portal.


4. Document Verification

   - The DOH will conduct a Primary Source Verification (PSV) to authenticate your credentials through a third-party service (usually DataFlow Group).

   - Ensure all your documents are genuine and can be verified by the issuing institutions.


5. Take the Required Examination

   - If your application is approved, you will be required to pass the DOH Nursing Exam.

   - The exam assesses your professional knowledge and competence.

   - Study the DOH exam content outline and practice with sample questions.


6. Receive the Professional License

   - Upon passing the examination, your application will be processed, and you will receive your DOH Nursing License.

   - This license allows you to work legally as a Registered Nurse in Abu Dhabi.


7. Secure Employment

   - With your DOH Nursing License, you can now apply for nursing positions in Abu Dhabi.

   - Once you receive a job offer, your employer will assist you with the residency visa and other formalities.


8. Complete Residency and Begin Work

   - After securing a position and completing residency formalities, you can start your nursing career in Abu Dhabi.


Important Notes

- Keep all documents in English or translated into English by a certified translator.

- Stay updated with the DOH requirements as they may change periodically.

- Communicate regularly with the DOH through the online portal to track your application status.


By following these steps, you will be well on your way to starting a fulfilling nursing career in Abu Dhabi. Good luck!


As of 2024, the cost for a European nurse (or any nurse) to register with the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DOH) typically involves several fees. These include the following:

  1. Application Fee: The initial application to process the nurse’s credentials usually ranges from AED 200 to AED 300.

  2. Examination Fee: If the nurse is required to take the DOH licensing examination, the fee for the exam is typically around AED 600 to AED 800.

  3. DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV): This is mandatory for verifying the nurse's qualifications and work experience. The cost usually ranges from AED 500 to AED 1,500, depending on the number of documents that need verification.

  4. License Issuance Fee: Once all requirements are met, the fee for issuing the DOH license generally ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 1,200.

  5. Other Possible Costs: These can include fees for translation of documents, additional attestations, or other miscellaneous charges, which might add a few hundred dirhams to the total cost.


In total, the entire process could cost a nurse anywhere between AED 2,500 to AED 4,000 or more, depending on the specific circumstances and any additional requirements.

It's essential to verify the current fees directly with the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi or through their official website, as these fees can change.

Visa Options for European Nurses to Work in Abu Dhabi

European nurses need an Employment Visa (job offer required) and a Residence Visa to work in Dubai. A DHA license is also mandatory to practice nursing. The process is employer-initiated.

Opportunities for European Registered Nurses in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi provides European nurses with excellent opportunities, including tax-free salaries, career growth, and a high standard of living. Nurses must obtain a HAAD license, secure a work visa, and adapt to local healthcare practices to work in the growing healthcare sector.

                                                                                     TAMM

TAMM: Abu Dhabi Department of Health (DHO) Application Portal.

                              Steps to work as a Registered Nurse in Abu Dhabi for European Nurses

                                                       DataFlow PSV - TAMM - Prometric - DHO

Do you still have any questions? Join our Linkedin Group "European Nurse Recruitment ".