How to convert or transfer DHA license to HAAD?

The UAE healthcare licensing system allows medical professionals to transfer their licenses between different regulatory authorities within the country. This guide provides detailed instructions on converting a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license to a Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD) license, now known as the Department of Health (DOH).

Understanding this process is essential for healthcare professionals seeking career opportunities across different emirates in the UAE.

Understanding HAAD and DOH Terminology

The Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD) has been renamed as the Department of Health (DOH). The HAAD examination is now referred to as the DOH exam, and the license transfer process is officially known as DOH Report Transfer. Both terms are often used interchangeably.

License Unification Background

In 2014, the UAE unified its medical licensing services across all emirates. This allows healthcare professionals to work anywhere in the country with any of the MOH, DOH (formerly HAAD), or DHA licenses. The unification streamlined hiring processes and enabled license transfers between different regulatory authorities.

Eligibility Requirements for transfer DHA license to HAAD

To qualify for converting your DHA license to DOH, you must meet specific requirements:

Mandatory Criteria:

1. Valid DHA License: You must possess a valid Dubai Health Authority medical license. An eligibility letter alone is insufficient for the transfer process.
2. Work Experience: A minimum of 3 months of work experience in Dubai under your DHA license is required. This enables you to obtain a Good Standing Certificate, which is mandatory for the DOH license transfer.
3. License Status: Your DHA license should either be active or, if expired, should not have been expired for more than 3 months at the time of application.
4. Good Standing Certificate: Obtain a Good Standing Certificate (GSC) from DHA, which typically takes 2-5 working days.

Some sources suggest a minimum work requirement of 6 months rather than 3 months. To avoid complications, having at least 6 months of experience before initiating the transfer may be prudent.

Step-by-Step Procedure for License Transfer

The conversion process is entirely online and consists of the following steps:

1. Obtain Good Standing Certificate

• Login to your DHA account and request a Good Standing Certificate.
• Wait for 2-5 working days for the certificate to be generated.

2. Initiate DataFlow Process

• Visit the official DataFlow platform.
• Sign up or log in to your account.
• Ensure you have your Unique Identity Number (UIN) before logging in (new users will receive this via email after registration).

3. Submit Application

• Navigate to the Application Dashboard.
• Select “Add New Case” > “Report Reissuance Package.”
• In the popup window, enter your DataFlow Case number, Date of Birth, and Passport Number.
• Click “Validate.”

4. Upload Documents

• Upload any additional required documents.
• Ensure all documents are clearly scanned and uncropped.
• Specify the name of the issuing authority for each document.
• Complete Category, Major, and Profession details.
• Click “Next.”

5. Review and Confirm

• Carefully review all details before proceeding, as they cannot be modified after submission.

6. Upload Personal Information

• Provide a clear copy of your passport.
• Include a passport-size photograph.
• Note that documents from your previous case will automatically be synchronized with this application.

7. Payment and Finalization

• Complete the payment process.
• Sign your eligibility report digitally.
• Regularly check the status of your application.

Required Documents for License Transfer

Ensure you have the following documents ready before starting:

1. Passport copy (clear and valid)
2. Recent passport-sized photograph with white background
3. Original degree/diploma certificate (attested by appropriate authorities)
4. Academic transcript or mark list
5. High school or higher secondary certificate
6. Home country license (initial copy and renewed, if applicable)
7. DHA license card
8. Experience certificates from DHA facilities (minimum 3-6 months)
9. Other relevant experience certificates
10. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current facility if still employed
11. Good Standing Certificate from DHA

Timeline and Fees

The timeline for license transfer varies depending on several factors:

• Good Standing Certificate issuance: 2 to 5 working days
• Overall licensing process: Typically takes 2 to 3 business days after submission of all required documents and passing verification

Regarding fees, charges may vary depending on your application type and DataFlow requirements.

Benefits of License Transfer

Converting your DHA license to DOH/HAAD offers several advantages:

1. Expanded Career Opportunities: Access healthcare job opportunities in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
2. Multiple Active Licenses: Possibility to hold up to three active licenses under different authorities simultaneously.
3. Career Flexibility: Ability to work in multiple medical facilities across different regions.
4. License Continuity: No need to undergo the entire licensing process again when moving between emirates.
5. Streamlined Process: A simplified pathway compared to applying for a new license from scratch.

Transferring a DHA license to DOH/HAAD opens up new professional opportunities across the UAE healthcare sector. By meeting eligibility criteria, gathering necessary documents, and following outlined steps, you can successfully complete this process with ease.

Regulatory requirements may change over time; therefore, it’s advisable to verify current information from official sources before initiating your application process!

Common Questions About License Transfer

Can I convert just a DHA eligibility letter to DOH/HAAD?

No, you need an active DHA license—not just an eligibility letter—to initiate this transfer.

What happens if my DHA license has expired?

If your DHA license expired less than 3 months ago, you can still apply for transfer. If expired longer than that, you may need to reactivate it first.

Can I work in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi after transfer?

Yes, transferring allows you to work in Abu Dhabi while maintaining your DHA license—provided both licenses remain active.

What if I failed a previous HAAD/DOH exam?

Previous exam failures don’t necessarily prevent license transfer if you currently hold a valid DHA license with required experience.