DHA vs MOH vs DOH Exam 2026: Eligibility, Difficulty Level & Career Scope Comparison
- Vaishnavi Mestry
- Jan 21
- 5 min read
The landscape of healthcare in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to be a primary destination for global medical professionals. As we move into 2026, the demand for doctors, nurses, and allied health staff has reached an all-time high. However, the first hurdle for any aspirant is deciding which licensing exam to take.
In 2026, the "best" exam depends entirely on which region of the United Arab Emirates you wish to work in, as each license is strictly jurisdiction-specific. While all three follow the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR), they serve different goals and have slightly different formats. Whether you are aiming for the high-energy private sector of Dubai, the prestigious government roles in Abu Dhabi, or the balanced lifestyle of the Northern Emirates, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Comparison of DHA, DOH, and MOH Exams (2026)
To simplify your decision-making process, here is a consolidated look at how the three authorities compare in the current year.
Feature | DHA (Dubai Health Authority) | DOH (Dept. of Health) | MOH (Ministry of Health) |
|---|---|---|---|
Jurisdiction | Dubai only | Abu Dhabi & Al Ain | Northern Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, etc.) |
Exam Format | MCQ-only (Prometric) | MCQs with clinical case scenarios | MCQs + Potential Viva/Practical |
Best For | Fast-paced career in private hospitals | Long-term government roles and specialized care | Flexibility across 5 Emirates and lower living costs |
Estimated Cost | AED 3,215 – 4,000 | AED 2,500 – 5,000 | AED 2,000 – 4,000 |
Validity | 1 Year (Renewable) | 5 Years (Renewable) | 5 Years (Renewable) |
Key Decision Factors: Difficulty and Salary
When choosing between the DHA vs MOH vs DOH Exam 2026, candidates often weigh difficulty against potential earnings. Here is the 2026 breakdown of what to expect:
1. Difficulty Level
DHA:
Often considered the most straightforward because it is primarily MCQ-based. The focus is on general medical knowledge and UAE-specific health regulations.
DOH:
Viewed as more nuanced. Since Abu Dhabi focuses heavily on specialized care, the DOH exam (formerly HAAD) uses complex, scenario-based questions that test clinical judgment.
MOH:
Frequently cited as the easiest in terms of written content, but it carries a unique challenge: it may require an oral or practical assessment (viva) depending on your specialty.
2. Salary and Cost of Living
In 2026, the financial packages remain highly competitive but vary by Emirate:
Dubai (DHA) & Abu Dhabi (DOH):
These regions offer the highest salaries. In 2026, nurses can expect AED 8,000–15,000/month, while General Practitioners earn between AED 25,000 and AED 40,000/month. However, be prepared for higher rent and lifestyle costs.
Northern Emirates (MOH):
Salaries are moderate, typically AED 6,000–12,000/month for nurses and AED 18,000–30,000/month for GPs. The major advantage here is the significantly lower cost of living, allowing for higher monthly savings.
3. Language and Mobility
While DHA and DOH are only available in English, the MOH provides an option for Arabic speakers, making it a preferred choice for professionals from the MENA region.
Mobility Update 2026: You can transfer your license between authorities after a certain period of practice (typically 3–6 months). While the process is more streamlined in 2026, it still requires additional document verification through the DataFlow system and an eligibility conversion fee.
Eligibility Criteria for UAE Medical Licensing in 2026
Before you pay any fees, you must ensure you meet the 2026 Unified PQR requirements. The standards have become stricter regarding "continuous" education and practice gaps.
Educational Qualification:
A recognized degree (MBBS, BDS, B.Sc Nursing, etc.) from an accredited institution. In 2026, many authorities require a minimum of 5 years of study for physicians.
Clinical Experience:
GPs/Nurses: Usually requires 2 years of post-internship experience.
Specialists: 3+ years of experience in the specific specialty.
Good Standing Certificate (GSC):
Must be issued by the medical board of your home country and be less than 6 months old at the time of application.
Practice Gap:
As of 2026, if you have a gap in clinical practice exceeding 2 years, you may be required to undergo retraining or provide evidence of clinical attachment.
Step-by-Step Application Process for 2026
The application process has been digitized across all platforms, including the DHA Sheryan, TAMM (for Abu Dhabi), and the MOHAP portal.
Step 1: Self-Assessment
Use the respective authority’s portal to perform a self-assessment. This tells you immediately if your qualifications and years of experience match the requirements for the role you are seeking.
Step 2: Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow
This is the most critical step. DataFlow is an independent body that verifies your degree, transcripts, and experience letters directly from the source.
Timeline:
6–12 weeks.
Pro-Tip:
Start this early! Without a "Positive" DataFlow report, you cannot sit for the exam.
Step 3: Credentialing and Eligibility Letter
Once verified, submit your application to the health authority. If approved, you will receive an "Eligibility Letter." This letter allows you to book your exam and is valid for one year.
Step 4: Exam Scheduling
Book your exam through Prometric (for DHA and MOH) or Pearson VUE/Prometric (for DOH). In 2026, most exams are computer-based and can be taken in your home country at authorized testing centers.
Career Scope and Opportunities in 2026
The career scope for healthcare professionals in the UAE is expanding beyond traditional hospital roles.
Telehealth & Digital Health:
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are leading the way in AI-driven diagnostics, creating roles for "Digital Health Specialists."
Specialized Centers of Excellence:
Abu Dhabi (DOH) is investing heavily in oncology and genomics, offering lucrative paths for researchers and specialists.
Community Health in Northern Emirates:
Under the MOH, there is a massive expansion of primary healthcare centers in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, offering stable, long-term government positions.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle preferences and career stage. If you want the "big city" life and high-end private practice, DHA (Dubai) is your best bet. If you seek specialized, high-standard clinical environments with great government benefits, DOH (Abu Dhabi) is the winner. For those looking for lower living costs and a gateway into the UAE with more flexibility, the MOH remains an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the most difficult among the DHA vs MOH vs DOH Exam 2026?
The DOH (Abu Dhabi) exam is generally considered the most difficult due to its high concentration of clinical scenario-based questions. The DHA vs MOH vs DOH Exam 2026 comparison shows that while DHA is standard MCQ, MOH is often seen as the most accessible entry point for international candidates.
2. Can I work in Dubai with an MOH license?
No, an MOH license only covers the Northern Emirates. However, after practicing for 6 months under an MOH license, you can apply to convert your license to a DHA license to work in Dubai, provided you meet Dubai’s specific criteria.
3. How much does the DataFlow verification cost in 2026?
The cost typically ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 1,720, depending on the number of documents (degree, license, experience) you need to verify.
4. Is there a limit on exam attempts?
Yes, most UAE health authorities allow a maximum of three attempts. If you fail all three, you may have to wait 12 months and show proof of additional training before reapplying.
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