How to Pass the DHA Exam (Prometric) on the First Attempt – Complete Guide
Preparing for the DHA Exam can be overwhelming, especially if you're aiming to clear it on the very first attempt. This complete guide breaks down everything you need to know—eligibility, syllabus, application process, study plans, exam tips, mistakes to avoid, and post-exam steps. Whether you're a nurse, doctor, physiotherapist, pharmacist, lab technician, or any other healthcare professional, this guide will help you prepare smartly and confidently.
1. Introduction
What Is the DHA Exam?
The DHA Exam (Dubai Health Authority Exam) is a licensing test that healthcare professionals must pass to work legally in Dubai. The exam is conducted via Prometric, a global testing body known for secure and standardized assessments.
Overview of Prometric Testing Format
The DHA exam is conducted in a computer-based format and typically includes:
- MCQs
- Timed sessions
- Secure test environment
Importance for Healthcare Professionals Moving to Dubai
Dubai's healthcare sector is rapidly growing and offers excellent opportunities. A DHA license is mandatory for:
- Government hospitals
- Private hospitals
- Clinics
- Specialty centres
2. What Is the DHA Prometric Exam?
Purpose of the Exam
The DHA Prometric Exam evaluates:
- Professional knowledge
- Clinical judgment
- Evidence-based practice
- Safety standards
Who Needs to Take It?
The exam is required for:
- Nurses
- Doctors
- Physiotherapists
- Dentists
- Pharmacists
- Lab technicians
- Radiographers
- Allied healthcare professionals
Role of Sheryan in the Licensing Process
Sheryan is the DHA's online licensing system used for:
- Creating your professional account
- Uploading documents
- Tracking application status
- Receiving your DHA Eligibility Letter
3. DHA Exam Eligibility Requirements
Education Requirements
Each category requires a minimum qualification, such as:
- Bachelor's degree or diploma
- Internship completion (for doctors)
Experience Requirements
Most DHA categories require:
- 2 years of clinical experience (Some categories accept 1 year; specialists require more.)
Required Documents
You will need:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Qualification certificates
- Experience certificates
- Good Standing Certificate
- Updated resume
Dataflow Verification Overview
DHA Dataflow validates:
- Your education
- Experience
- License authenticity
Skipping Dataflow may result in disqualification.
Eligibility Letter Importance
Your DHA Eligibility Letter allows you to:
- Take the Prometric exam
- Apply for job interviews
- Start the licensing process
4. DHA Exam Pattern & Syllabus Breakdown
Number of Questions
Most exams include 70–150 MCQs depending on the specialty.
Duration
Typically 2 hours.
Passing Score
Varies by category (usually around 60–70%).
Type of Questions
Scenario-based MCQs, Clinical reasoning, Safety protocols
Syllabus Overview for Major Categories
Includes:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Clinical practice guidelines
- Disease management
- Pharmacology
- Patient safety
Where to Download DHA Syllabus
You can download the official DHA exam syllabus from:
- DHA website
- Sheryan portal
- Prometric content outlines
5. How to Apply for the DHA Exam
Step-by-Step Sheryan Registration
- Visit the Sheryan portal
- Create a professional account
- Upload documents
- Pay the application fee
Dataflow Process
- Submit documents
- Wait for verification
- Receive PSV report
Exam Scheduling Through Prometric
- Visit Prometric website
- Choose your nearest center or online testing option
- Pick date & time
- Pay the exam fee
Fee Structure
Fees differ by specialty but typically include:
- Application fee
- Dataflow fee
- Exam fee
- License activation fee
6. Study Plan to Pass DHA on First Attempt
a) Create a 30-Day, 60-Day, 90-Day Plan
- 30-Day Plan: Revision + mock tests
- 60-Day Plan: Moderate study + topic-wise tests
- 90-Day Plan: Detailed preparation + in-depth practice
b) Identify Weak Areas
Focus on subjects where you consistently score low.
c) Use Official DHA Study Materials
Use:
- DHA syllabus
- Prometric references
- Standard textbooks
d) Take Regular Mock Tests
This helps:
- Improve speed
- Boost confidence
- Understand exam pattern
e) Practice Time Management
Practice completing all questions within 1.5 hours.
7. Best Resources to Prepare for DHA Exam
DHA syllabus PDFs
Prometric practice questions
Previous question papers (if available)
Standard textbooks (based on specialty)
Online coaching centres
Mobile apps for MCQ practice
8. Exam-Day Tips to Ensure First Attempt Success
- Arrive at the Prometric centre 30–45 minutes early
- Carry passport + confirmation email + any original ID Proof other than passport
- Stay calm and focused
- Use intelligent guessing for unfamiliar questions
- Don't spend too long on any one question
9. Common Mistakes Candidates Make (and How to Avoid Them)
- Skipping Dataflow → leads to rejection
- Depending only on coaching → self-study is essential
- Not practicing mock tests → reduces confidence
- Poor time management → leads to incomplete answers
10. After Passing the DHA Exam – What Next?
Getting the Eligibility Letter
Your eligibility letter will appear in Sheryan after you pass.
Next Steps for License Activation
- Upload employment details
- Complete fitness test
- Pay activation fee
Job Search in Dubai
You can now apply to:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Medical centers
Converting DHA to Other Gulf Licenses
You can convert:
- DHA → HAAD (DOH Abu Dhabi)
- DHA → MOH UAE
- DHA → QCHP (Qatar)
11. Conclusion
Passing the DHA Exam on your first attempt is absolutely achievable with the right preparation. Stay consistent, follow a structured study plan, use official materials, and take plenty of mock tests. The sooner you start, the higher your chances of success.
Prepare smart, stay confident, and take your first step toward a rewarding healthcare career in Dubai.