Get Your Health Trade License in the UAE

The UAE’s healthcare sector has seen rapid growth, with the government continuously investing in the expansion of medical infrastructure and technology. According to the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, the country aims to become a global healthcare hub, attracting more than 691,000 million medical tourists annually by 2023. Healthcare is a key pillar of the UAE’s Vision 2021.

In line with this growth, setting up a healthcare business in the UAE requires proper licensing and compliance. Obtaining a Health Trade License involves multiple regulatory approvals, but with Safe Ledger FZCO, the process becomes simple and stress-free.

Our experts handle every step, from identifying the right license category to managing your application, so you can focus on delivering quality care. Obtaining a Health Trade License is essential for anyone operating in the UAE healthcare sector. For guidance on other trade licenses, Get insights on Trade License in UAE.

A Health Trade License is crucial for healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and medical centers, as well as for individual practitioners such as doctors, dentists, nurses, and pharmacists.

A Health Trade License in the UAE is required for anyone who wants to operate a healthcare business or practice in the country. It involves obtaining both a Commercial License and an Operational License from the relevant authorities. The commercial License is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority. In contrast, the operational License is issued by health authorities like MOHAP, DHA, DOH, or DHCA, depending on the emirate or area.

Four main authorities issue health trade Licenses in the UAE:

1. MOHAP:  For the Northern Emirates like Sharjah, Ajman, and others
2. DHA: For Dubai (except Dubai Healthcare City)
3. DOH: For Abu Dhabi
4. DHCA: For Dubai Healthcare City

Understanding which authority applies to your healthcare business and following their specific procedures is crucial. The process typically starts with reserving a trade name with the DED, followed by applying for the healthcare Operational License from the relevant health authority.

A Health Trade License is mandatory for any individual or organization intending to operate within the UAE's healthcare sector. This broad requirement encompasses a wide range of entities and professionals.

The types of businesses and professionals that must obtain this license include:

• Hospitals: General hospitals and those offering specialized medical services.
• Clinics and Medical Centers: General practice clinics, specialized clinics (e.g., dermatology, cardiology), polyclinics offering multiple specialties, and various medical centers.
• Pharmacies: Both community pharmacies and hospital-based pharmacies are required to be licensed.
• Medical Laboratories and Diagnostic Centers: Facilities conducting medical tests and diagnostic procedures fall under this requirement.
• Individual Healthcare Professionals: This is a comprehensive list including:
  • Doctors (General Practitioners, Specialists, Consultants).
  • Nurses (Registered Nurses, Practical Nurses, Nurse Practitioners).
  • Pharmacists.
  • Dentists (General Dentists, Dental Specialists).
  • Allied Health Professionals, such as physiotherapists, radiologists, laboratory technicians, occupational therapists, and optometrists.
• Other Healthcare-Related Services: The scope may also extend to:
  • Healthcare Staffing Agencies: Supply medical professionals to healthcare facilities.
  • Medical Recruitment Agencies: Hire and place doctors, nurses, and specialists.
  • Telemedicine Providers: Offer remote healthcare and virtual consultations.
  • Home Healthcare Services: Provide in-home medical and support care.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Health Trade License in UAE?

Below is a general overview of the key stages and estimated timeframes:

The process to get a Health Trade License in the UAE involves a few key steps, with slight differences depending on the authority (MOHAP, DHA, or DOH).

Step 1: Define Business Activity and Legal Structure

The first step is to clearly define the healthcare services the business will offer (e.g., general clinic, specialized pharmacy, hospital). Following this, an appropriate legal structure (such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, or branch of a foreign company) must be chosen.

Depending on your operations, you may also require additional licenses such as a Commercial Trade License, Industrial Trade License for medical equipment production, or Real Estate Trade License if operating multiple facilities. Restaurants or cafeterias within healthcare facilities may need a Restaurant Trade License or a Grocery Trade License for retail food services.

Step 2: Choose Jurisdiction and Reserve Trade Name

A decision must be made whether to set up on the mainland or in a free zone. A unique trade name that complies with UAE regulations must then be reserved with the DED or the relevant free zone authority.

You can also leverage Safe Ledger’s PRO Services to reserve your trade name, submit your application, and coordinate with authorities efficiently.

Step 3: Obtain Initial Approval from Economic Authorities

An initial approval or No-Objection Certificate is required from the DED or free zone authority. This confirms that the proposed business activity and structure comply with commercial regulations. This initial nod allows the applicant to proceed with further investments, such as securing premises or developing detailed plans, before more rigorous checks are conducted for the final License.

Step 4: Prepare Comprehensive Documentation

All necessary personal, professional (for owners/managers), and business documents must be meticulously gathered. This includes the Memorandum of Association (MOA) for LLCs and other corporate structures.

Step 5: Secure Physical Office Space

For most mainland businesses, a physical office location is mandatory. A valid tenancy contract, registered with Ejari (in Dubai), is required. Healthcare facilities must ensure their chosen location meets specific standards regarding accessibility, space, ventilation, and safety, as stipulated by the health authorities.

Step 6: Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow

This is a mandatory step for all healthcare professionals. Their educational qualifications, experience certificates, and other relevant credentials must be verified by DataFlow or a similar approved agency.

Step 7: Pass Licensing Examinations (for professionals)

Most healthcare professionals are required to pass Computer-Based Tests (CBT) and, in some cases, oral assessments to demonstrate their competency.

Step 8: Facility Design and Inspection (for facilities)

The proposed clinic, hospital, or pharmacy must be designed, constructed, and furnished according to the specific standards set by the health authority. The facility will undergo one or more inspections to ensure compliance before the operational License is granted.

Step 9: Obtain Approvals from Other Relevant Entities

Depending on the nature of the facility and its location, approvals may also be required from other governmental bodies, such as the Civil Defense for Fire Safety and the local Municipality for building and zoning regulations.

Step 10: Pay Applicable Fees

Various fees are payable at different stages of the licensing process to both the economic departments and the health authorities.

Step 11: Receive Health License

Once all Health Trade License requirements are met, documents are verified, exams are passed (for professionals), inspections are successful (for facilities), and all fees are paid, the health License is issued. For DHA facilities, an inactive facility License is often issued first, which then needs to be activated to commence operations.

Once all requirements are met, the facility or professional receives the Health Trade License. For ongoing operations, Trade License Renewal services ensure you stay compliant with annual requirements.

Step 12: Hire Licensed Staff

All medical professionals employed by the facility must hold valid Licenses from the respective health authority in that Emirate. Additionally, each licensed professional must be officially linked to your facility’s license on the health authority portal to ensure regulatory compliance and enable legal practice.

Get Your Health Trade License with Ease, Partner with Safe Ledger FZCO Today!

A successful Health Trade License application requires careful preparation of documents, which may vary based on the health authority and whether the application is for a facility or professional.

For Business/Facility License:

• Completed application form from the relevant health authority.
• Copy of the Trade License issued by the DED or relevant Free Zone authority.
• Facility layout plans or site plans require initial approval from the health authority engineers.
• Passport copies and Emirates ID (for UAE residents) of the owner(s)/partners.
• Recent passport-size photograph of the owner(s).
• Lease agreement or tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai) for the clinic/facility premises.
• Civil Defense Certificate of Conformity for safety standards.
• Medical equipment list, waste management agreement, and business plan (if applicable).
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the manager from their current UAE sponsor (if applicable).

For Healthcare Professionals:

• Valid passport copy, Emirates ID (for UAE residents), and recent passport-size photograph.
• Attested copies of educational qualifications and detailed experience certificates.
• Professional License /registration certificate and Certificate of Good Standing (GSC) from previous licensing bodies.
• Medical fitness certificate and valid assessment certificate (e.g., Prometric exam).
• Job offer letter from a Licensed healthcare facility in the UAE.
• Primary Source Verification (PSV) report from DataFlow.

The cost of obtaining a Health Trade License in the UAE varies based on factors like the Emirate, health authority, facility type, and healthcare professional specialization. It involves multiple fees at different stages, paid to various entities throughout the licensing process.

Estimated Cost Components for Health Trade Licenses

Note: These are estimated ranges and can vary significantly. Always refer to the latest fee schedules from the respective authorities.

Securing a Health Trade License in the UAE offers numerous advantages beyond simply meeting legal requirements:

• Legal Operation: The most fundamental benefit is the legal authorization to operate and practice within the UAE's healthcare sector. This avoids severe penalties associated with non-compliance.
• Enhanced Credibility and Trust: A valid license serves as a testament to patients, business partners, and the general public that the facility or professional adheres to the UAE's high healthcare standards. This builds essential trust and enhances brand credibility.
• Access to a Growing and Diverse Market: The UAE is recognized as a significant hub for medical tourism and experiences consistently strong domestic demand for quality healthcare services. A Health Trade License provides access to this lucrative and expanding market.
• Regulatory Support and Clear Framework: While the licensing process can be complex, the established regulatory framework also offers a degree of structure and support for businesses operating within it.
• Opportunities for Innovation: The UAE’s growing healthcare sector actively supports the use of advanced medical technology, modern treatments, and new ways of delivering healthcare services.
• Eligibility for Insurance Network Empanelment: Licensed healthcare facilities are typically eligible to apply for joining approved insurance provider networks with various health insurance networks. Being part of these networks is often crucial for attracting a steady volume of patients who rely on insurance coverage.
• Attracting Qualified Professionals: Licensed and reputable healthcare facilities are highly appealing to qualified medical professionals seeking employment opportunities. Professionals themselves are required to work in Licensed establishments.
• Access to Business Banking Facilities: A valid Health Trade License is a prerequisite for opening a corporate bank account in the UAE, which is essential for managing business finances.
• Eligibility for Residency Visas: Obtaining a Health Trade License allows business owners and their employees to apply for and secure UAE residency visas, facilitating their stay and work in the country.

These benefits collectively demonstrate that the Health Trade License is a key factor for business growth and smooth integration into the UAE's healthcare ecosystem.

To verify a health trade License, businesses can use the official online portals of the Department of Economic Development (DED) or equivalent bodies in other emirates. This process involves:

• Using a trade name or license number to verify the license’s status and details.
• Health authorities such as DHA, MOHAP, and DOH provide official online verification portals.

These platforms allow you to confirm the legitimacy of both healthcare professionals and medical facilities. They also help ensure compliance and build trust with patients and partners.

Staying Compliant

Compliance is ongoing, requiring adherence to regulations for facility standards, staff qualifications, and legal requirements. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines:

• Fines up to AED 1 million for serious violations or continued non-compliance.
• License suspension or revocation if the facility or staff fails to meet required standards.
• Practicing without a valid license can result in fines ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 500,000.

Furthermore, healthcare professionals may face a permanent ban, reputational damage, and civil lawsuits.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Fines, suspension, imprisonment, and deportation are some consequences of non-compliance. For delayed License renewals, fines are charged daily, and after six months, Licenses can be canceled.

Health trade Licenses in the UAE are valid for a limited period, typically requiring annual renewal. Understanding the renewal process, consequences of expiry, and cancellation procedures is essential for maintaining legal operations.

Health Trade License Renewal Process

There are two ways to Trade License Renewal:

MOHAP Facility License Renewal: To renew a facility License with MOHAP, apply to the MOHAP website or smart app using UAE PASS. Required documents include:

• A photo of the facility's external billboard.
• Updated medical waste agreement.
• Current medical equipment list and price list.
• Radiation Protection License (from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation).
• Civil Defense preventive safety certificate.
• Updated trade License, partners’ list, and facility layout.
• MOHAP License renewal application letter and RIAYATI system registration.

DHA License Renewal: DHA licenses are renewed annually. It requires proof of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours. Apply approximately 90 days before the expiration date.

Consequences of Health Trade License Expiry

Failure to renew on time results in penalties. For MOHAP facilities, a fine of 25% of the basic License fee is charged every 30 days after the expiration, up to six months. After this period, the License will be canceled, and practicing with an expired License is considered illegal.

Health Trade License Cancellation

There are two main ways to cancel a Health Trade License in the UAE:

MOHAP Facility License Cancellation: To cancel a facility License, submit a request on the MOHAP website or smart app. Required documents include:

• The facility's current License.
• A formal letter from the UAE national owner requesting cancellation.
• Trade License from DED.

Additionally, all medical staff licenses associated with the facility must be canceled or transferred before processing. Cancellation approval typically takes 2 working days.

MOHAP Professional License Cancellation: The Licensed facility requests the cancellation of an employee’s License by submitting:

• A letter from the facility.
• Copy of the professional’s last License.
• Proof of cancellation of the professional’s residence visa or labor card.

By staying on top of renewals and cancellations, healthcare facilities and professionals ensure compliance and avoid penalties.