Introduction

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Prometric Exam is a mandatory step toward obtaining a DHA license to practice medicine within the Emirate.

This guide walks you through every stage of the process:

1. Confirming eligibility requirements
2. Undergoing document verification
3. Scheduling and taking the exam
4. Understanding fees
5. Navigating post-exam procedures, including licensing

Eligibility Criteria for General Practitioners

Before you begin the registration process, you must verify that you fulfill the DHA’s prerequisites. The main eligibility factors include:

1. Recognized Medical Degree
   • You must hold a valid medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) from an institution accredited by relevant local or international authorities.
   • Be ready to submit proof of graduation and transcripts during the verification process.
2. Clinical Experience
   • Typically, at least two years of relevant post-graduation clinical experience is required.
   • Some sources indicate this requirement may extend to three years, depending on your specific credentials or the latest DHA guidelines.
3. Good Standing Certificate
   • You must obtain a Good Standing Certificate from your last place of practice or regulatory body.
   • This certificate confirms that you have a clear professional record without major disciplinary actions.
4. Primary Source Verification (PSV)
   • Completing PSV through the DataFlow Group is mandatory.
   • DataFlow verifies your educational qualifications, work experience, and supporting documents directly from original issuers.
   • This step ensures authenticity and prevents credential fraud.

Why So Strict?

The DHA’s comprehensive eligibility checks and PSV requirements ensure that only well-qualified, trustworthy candidates are admitted to practice in Dubai. The emphasis on verifying credentials and experience underscores the DHA’s commitment to maintaining high healthcare standards.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

The DHA registration process is divided into several phases. Each phase must be completed accurately to avoid delays.

Phase 1: Creating a DHA Account on the Sheryan Portal

1. Visit the Official DHA Website
   • Go to the DHA Sheryan portal.
2. Create an Account
   • Provide your username, email, and password along with personal details (name, date of birth, etc.).
   • An activation code or confirmation link is usually sent to your registered email.
3. Complete Your Profile
   • After activation, log in to fill out additional fields (nationality, license details if any, contact information).
   • This creates your unique DHA account used for all further steps.

Tip: Double-check that your name and passport details match exactly throughout the process to avoid discrepancies later on.

Phase 2: Completing Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow

1. Initiate PSV
   • Through the DataFlow Group portal, submit scanned copies of:
     • Medical degree certificate and transcripts
     • Internship completion (if required)
     • Clinical experience certificates
     • Valid passport copy
     • Good Standing Certificate
2. Verification Timeline
   • PSV can take 30-45 days (sometimes longer). Start well ahead of your target exam date.
3. Payment
   • PSV fees vary (approx. AED 1000–1500, depending on standard vs. express service).

Phase 3: Scheduling the Prometric Exam

Once the DHA confirms your eligibility (after PSV completion):

1. Go to the Prometric Website
   • Navigate to Prometric’s official website.
   • Locate the exam section for Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
2. Obtain CBT Eligibility ID
   • Enter your DHA unique ID (from the Sheryan portal) and select “General Practitioner” as your profession.
   • Click “Generate” to get your CBT eligibility ID required for scheduling the exam.
3. Book the Exam Slot
   • Click “Schedule” and accept the policy note.
   • Provide your eligibility ID, last name (exactly as on your passport), and select location & test date.
   • Review available time slots (usually within 15 days of your chosen start date).
   • Important: Check all details on the appointment verification page before making payment.
4. Payment
   • The Prometric Exam Fee can range between AED 1830–2750 (approx. USD 500-700) but may vary with currency exchange.
   • Once payment is complete, you will receive a Prometric appointment letter via email. Print this and keep a valid ID ready for exam day.

Detailed Examination Structure

4.1 Format and Duration

1. Computer-Based Test (CBT)
   • The exam is conducted at authorized Prometric centers.
2. Number of Questions
   • Typically 150 MCQs in a single-best-answer format.
3. Time Allocation
   • Standard duration is often quoted as 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes), though some sources mention 3 hours.
   • Confirm the official exam time with the latest DHA guidelines.
4. Passing Score
   • Generally, 60% or 65% is required to pass.
   • Focus on maximizing accuracy across all MCQs.

4.2 Comprehensive Syllabus for General Practitioners

The exam covers a broad range of medical topics relevant to primary care. Approximate weightage is indicated for core vs. other areas:

1. Core Medical Areas (60% Weightage)
   • Internal Medicine: Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Neurology, Pulmonology, Infectious Diseases, etc.
   • Obstetrics and Gynecology: Prenatal care, gynecological conditions, contraceptive management.
   • Pediatrics: Growth & development, immunizations, common pediatric illnesses.
   • General Surgery: Basic surgical principles, pre- and post-op care, common acute surgical conditions.
   • Psychiatry and Ethics: Common mental health disorders, ethical issues in practice.
2. Other Important Topics (40% Weightage)
   • Emergency Problems: Acute care for adults and children, basic life support.
   • Common Surgical Problems: Initial recognition and referral guidelines.
   • Common Psychiatric Issues: Depression, anxiety, etc., in primary care settings.
   • Eye & ENT: Conjunctivitis, otitis media, sinusitis, etc.
   • Dermatology: Eczema, psoriasis, basic dermatological treatments.
   • Basic Epidemiology & Evidence-Based Medicine: Understanding research, studies, screening measures.
   • Family Medicine & Preventive Care: Chronic disease management, health promotion, periodic health exams.
   • Radiology: Basic interpretation of X-rays, ultrasounds relevant to GPs.
   • Biostatistics: Fundamental statistical concepts for clinical practice.

Suggested Courses:

• Edubros.org course fully covers this exam

Examination Fees

Obtaining your DHA license involves multiple fees. Below is an estimated breakdown:

Receiving Your Results and Next Steps

6.1 If You Pass

1. Result Notification
   • Results usually appear in your DHA Sheryan account within 2–5 working days.
2. Eligibility Letter
   • Successful candidates receive an Eligibility Letter, valid for one year from the date of passing.
3. Securing Employment
   • You must secure a job offer from a DHA-approved healthcare facility.
   • The employing facility typically sponsors your license activation.
4. Final License Activation
   • After meeting facility requirements (medical fitness, malpractice insurance, labor contract), pay the License Activation Fee.
   • Once activated, you are officially registered to practice as a General Practitioner in Dubai.

6.2 If You Don’t Pass

1. Retaking the Exam
   • You can retake, but rules vary on waiting periods (some references mention immediate retakes; others suggest a waiting period).
2. Targeted Study
   • Reflect on your weak areas using any available performance feedback.
   • Many candidates pass on their second attempt after targeted improvement.
3. Total Number of Attempts
   • Generally, you are allowed 3 total attempts across all UAE health authorities (DHA, MOH, DOH/HAAD).
   • Failing after three tries may require additional qualifications or a 1-year waiting period—confirm the latest official rules.

Rules on Number of Attempts

• Three-Attempt Rule: Most sources agree you have up to three total attempts to pass the Prometric exam across all UAE health authorities combined.
• Attempt Limits:
  • If you fail thrice, you may need to upgrade your qualifications or document further training.
  • Some guidelines mention a one-year waiting period after the third failed attempt, whereas others do not impose a strict timeline.
  • Always check the most current official DHA guidelines as these policies can change.

Frequency of the DHA Prometric Exam

• The DHA Prometric Exam does not follow a strict “once or twice a year” calendar.
• Exams are typically offered frequently throughout the year, depending on testing center capacity.
• Prometric test centers provide flexible scheduling options; you can often find multiple dates each month.

Unexpected Advantage: Unlike some licensing bodies that limit exams to specific annual dates, the flexible scheduling allows you to pick a test date that aligns with your readiness and study progress.

Mandatory Information and Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth application and exam process, keep these documents and details ready:

1. Personal Identification
   • Valid Passport (ensure enough validity remaining).
   • Passport-sized photographs (recent).
2. Educational Credentials
   • Medical degree certificate and academic transcripts.
   • Internship certificate (if applicable).
3. Experience Certificates
   • Official letters from employers proving 2–3 years of post-graduation clinical experience.
4. Good Standing Certificate
   • From the medical council or regulatory authority of your last place of practice.
5. DHA Sheryan Login and Unique ID
   • You will use this to track application status and generate your CBT eligibility ID.
6. Prometric Appointment Letter
   • Required for admission on exam day.
7. PSV Documents
   • Proof of DataFlow Group verification completion.
8. English Proficiency
   • While not an official “document,” be aware that English is the primary language for exam and clinical practice in Dubai.

Attention to Detail: Any mismatch between the name on your passport and your exam registration can cause denial of entry on exam day. Always use the exact spelling of your name as it appears on your passport.

Key Preparation Strategies and Tips for Success

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Structure
   • Understand the format (MCQs), the allotted time (2.5 to 3 hours), and the passing score (60–65%).
2. Target High-Yield Topics
   • Core subjects: Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, General Surgery, Psychiatry.
   • Supplement with: Emergency Medicine, ENT, Dermatology, Basic Epidemiology, and Family Medicine principles.
3. Practice MCQs
   • Seek out question banks, sample tests, and practice daily to improve speed and accuracy.
   • Use scenario-based questions to sharpen clinical reasoning.
4. Use Reputable Study Materials
   • Standard textbooks: Harrison’s, Rakel, CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment, Nelson (for Pediatrics).
   • Online resources and exam-specific guides designed for DHA or GCC exams.
5. Set a Realistic Study Schedule
   • Break down topics over weeks or months, ensuring you can revise them adequately before the exam.
   • Balance study sessions with rest and self-care to maintain focus.
6. Time Management in the Exam
   • Aim for under a minute per question.
   • Mark difficult questions for review and return if time permits, rather than fixating on them.
7. Join Study Groups or Forums
   • Share resources, clarify doubts, learn from peers who have cleared the exam.
8. Stay Healthy
   • Adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques can boost memory and concentration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Q: How do I know if my medical degree is recognized by the DHA?

   A: DHA typically recognizes degrees from accredited medical institutions. You can check accreditation via your local Ministry of Higher Education or relevant authorities. The PSV process (DataFlow) will confirm recognition directly from your institution.

2. Q: What if my verification (PSV) takes longer than expected?

   A: PSV can take up to 45 days or more. Delays can occur if documents are incomplete or if there’s difficulty verifying from the issuing authority. Contact DataFlow if it exceeds the typical timeframe.

3. Q: Can I reschedule my Prometric exam date?

   A: Yes. Log into your Prometric account, find your scheduled appointment, and select “reschedule” or “cancel.” You may have to pay a rescheduling fee depending on how close your exam date is.

4. Q: Is there negative marking in the exam?

   A: No, the DHA Prometric Exam typically does not penalize wrong answers. You only earn points for correct answers, so attempt all questions.

5. Q: How soon after the exam will I get my results?

   A: Results are usually released within 2 to 5 working days. You can check by logging into your DHA Sheryan portal account.

6. Q: What happens if I fail the exam?

   A: You can retake it, subject to DHA regulations. Generally, you are allowed up to three total attempts across the UAE’s health authorities. After three failures, further education or a waiting period may be required.

7. Q: Who pays the License Activation Fee?

   A: This fee is often sponsored by the healthcare facility that hires you. However, policies differ, so clarify this with potential employers.

8. Q: Are there specific months the exam is conducted?

   A: No. DHA exams via Prometric run year-round at various centers worldwide. You can choose from available time slots that suit your schedule.

9. Q: Do I need an English language proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL) for DHA licensing?

   A: There is no official blanket requirement for IELTS/TOEFL for DHA GP licensing, but fluent English is crucial for both the exam and clinical practice. Some employers might have internal requirements for English proficiency.

10. Q: Can I use the same DataFlow PSV report for other UAE health authorities (MOH, DOH/HAAD)?

    A: In many cases, yes. DataFlow verifications can be transferred or mutually recognized. However, each authority has its own guidelines, so confirm with them if additional steps are needed.