Understanding the DOH Exam: A Complete Guide for Medical Professionals

The DOH exam (Department of Health - Abu Dhabi ) formerly known as HAAD exam, is the licensing exam for healthcare professionals who wish to work in Abu Dhabi & Al Ain. DOH exam is one of the toughest exams compared to other licensure exams, which ensures all candidates meet the required standard to get a license in Abu Dhabi. DOH exam integrates clinical cases or ethical scenarios, making it something different from other licensure exams. DOH exam is valid in Abu Dhabi & Al Ain only. But there is a handy trick, after one year of experience, candidates can convert the license to another emirates authority.

Who should take the DOH exam ?

Healthcare professionals like General Practitioners,General Dentists (Specialists & Consultants), Physiotherapists, Nurses, Pharmacists, Laboratory Technicians, Radiographers, Occupational Therapists, Dietitians, Dental Hygienists, Clinical Biochemists, Audiologists,Dialysis Technicians, Respiratory Therapists, Massage Therapists, Optometrists. Etc.

Benefits of DOH exam

Passing the DOH exam offers several professionals and personal benefits to healthcare professionals who wish to practice in Abu Dhabi. Successfully clearing the DOH exam allows one to obtain a professional license to legally work in Abu Dhabi & Al Ain. A licensed professional can apply for jobs in both government and private sectors.Abu Dhabi also offers attractive salary , employment benefits and incentives to licensed healthcare professionals. It also allows global recognition and mobility.Abu Dhabi's healthcare system is known for its advanced technology, patient care standards, and international collaborations. Working in such an environment helps professionals gain valuable experience and global exposure.

Step-by-Step Overview: DOH Exam Process

In this initial step, individuals begin by checking and submitting their eligibility. This helps the candidates to know whether they are eligible for the process.

Primary Source Verification

At this stage, the individual's credentials and documentation are subjected to a process called Primary Source Verification where a service provider called Dataflow ensures the authenticity of the provided information. After this process, candidates will take a computer based exam conducted by a testing agency Pearson Vue.

After completing all the necessary assessments and satisfying the registration requirements, the individual reaches the final step. Here, they activate their professional license, allowing them to legally practice within their field.

Eligibility Criteria

The Department of Health (DOH) Abu Dhabi sets specific eligibility requirements to ensure only qualified healthcare professionals are licensed to work in Abu Dhabi. The guidelines may vary depending upon the category.

For Doctors, candidates must hold a recognized MBBS or equivalent medical degree from an accredited university. Candidates are required to have a minimum 2 years of clinical experience after internship. Specialists must hold a postgraduate qualification (MD, MS, DNB) with 3 years of experience in their respective field. Consultants must hold a higher speciality education (DM, MCh, PhD)with at least 5 years of experience post qualification.A valid medical license or registration from the home country or the last country practice is mandatory.

For dentists,candidates must hold a BDS or equivalent dental degree from a recognized institution. Candidates are required to have a minimum 2 years of clinical experience after internship.Specialist dentists must hold a MDS or equivalent postgraduate degree and have a minimum of 3 years of work experience in their specialty.A valid medical license or registration from the home country or the last country practice is mandatory.

For Allied Health Professionals,such as Physiotherapists, Lab professionals, Microbiologists, Radiographers etc should have a relevant diploma or degree from a reputed institution. The minimum requirement is to have 2 years experience after association or council registration and a valid license or registration from the appropriate regulatory body from the home country.