Understanding DHA and HAAD Exams
Essential Licensing for Healthcare Professionals
For healthcare professionals aiming to build a career in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), clearing the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) or HAAD (Health Authority – Abu Dhabi) exam is a mandatory requirement. At 360 Recruitment Group, we specialize in guiding candidates through every step of the recruitment and licensing journey — and that begins with passing these critical exams.
What is the DHA Exam?
The DHA exam is a licensing examination required for healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors, pharmacists, etc.) who want to work in Dubai. Administered by the Dubai Health Authority, it evaluates the candidate’s clinical knowledge, decision-making skills, and ethical standards to ensure safe and effective patient care.
DHA Exam Format (For Nurses):
Type: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration: 2 hours
Number of Questions: Approximately 70 multiple-choice questions
Passing Score: Around 60–65% (varies)
Content Areas:
Fundamentals of Nursing
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Pediatric Nursing
Community Health
Ethics and Professional Practice
What is the HAAD Exam?
The HAAD exam, now known as the DOH (Department of Health – Abu Dhabi) exam, is the official licensing exam for professionals seeking to work in Abu Dhabi or Al Ain. It ensures that all healthcare workers meet the clinical standards set by the Department of Health.
HAAD Exam Format (For Nurses):
Type: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration: 2 hours
Number of Questions: 100 multiple-choice questions
Passing Score: Around 60% (varies slightly by profession)
Content Areas:
Adult Nursing
Maternal and Child Health
Health Promotion
Nursing Ethics and Laws
Emergency and Critical Care
Why Are DHA and HAAD Exams Important?
Legal Requirement: You cannot work as a nurse or other healthcare provider in Dubai or Abu Dhabi without a valid license issued after passing the DHA or HAAD exam.
Why It Matters for 360 Recruitment Group
At 360 Recruitment Group, we don’t just connect healthcare professionals to overseas jobs — we prepare, guide, and support them every step of the way. Helping candidates clear the DHA and HAAD exams is a core part of our recruitment strategy because:
It guarantees that applicants are prepared for the workforce and have the legal right to work in the UAE.
It improves client satisfaction by supplying qualified, certified professionals.
It speeds up the placement process, reducing delays in visa processing and onboarding.
It reinforces our reputation as a complete end-to-end recruitment partner — from training to licensing to placement.
