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A Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Licensed Psychiatric Professional in Dubai

Alshaimaa
20 Oct 2023

This comprehensive guide is tailored to individuals aiming to become licensed psychiatric professionals in Dubai. We will take you through the essential steps and requirements to obtain a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) license specifically for the field of clinical psychology.

Determine Your Eligibility

Before diving into the licensing process, it's crucial to assess your eligibility. The DHA's Health Regulation Department (HRD) is responsible for licensing clinical psychology professionals who possess the qualifications and skills necessary to deliver quality mental healthcare services in Dubai. Eligible candidates include:

  • Psychiatrists
  • Psychiatric Nurses
  • Clinical Psychologists
  • Psychiatric Social Workers

Self-Assessment and Application

The journey to acquiring your DHA license begins with a self-assessment and application process:

Step 1: Initial Self-Assessment


Visit the Sheryan self-assessment portal on the DHA website.

Complete the self-assessment questionnaire.

Create a DHA account by logging in. Note that you can only attempt the assessment three times.

The self-assessment will determine your eligibility for inclusion in the Dubai Medical Registry based on the information you provide. If you are deemed eligible, you can proceed to the next steps. If not, you can opt for a Manual Review of your profile:

  • Submit an online application with required details and documents.
  • Pay the application fee of AED 200.
  • Wait for the DHA review, which may take up to 10 working days.

Step2: Create a Sheryan Account

Before advancing in the DHA licensing process, you need to create a personal ID on the DHA Sheryan portal:

  • Visit the DHA "Single Sign On" portal.
  • Click on "Register New Account."
  • Provide the necessary information.

Click "Register."

You will receive account authentication details via email.

Primary Source Verification (PSV) and CBT Assessment

Eligible candidates in Dubai must undergo Primary Source Verification (PSV) and, if required, clear the Computer-Based Test (CBT) assessment.

PSV via DataFlow

The DHA collaborates with the DataFlow Group to screen professional applicants in the mental health field. PSV meticulously verifies educational backgrounds and credentials to ensure only genuine profiles enter the Dubai Medical Registry.

CBT Assessment via Prometric

Certain mental health professionals may be required to take an initial CBT Assessment, administered by Prometric—an independent examination board assessing knowledge and skills.

Upon successfully passing the Prometric CBT assessment and the PSV review, you can proceed to register for your DHA license.

License Registration

To formally process your license application, register on the DHA Sheryan portal:

  • Click on "Register a Professional."
  • Provide the relevant information.
  • Upload the necessary documents.

Pay the DHA registration fees (AED 200) and submit your application.

The DHA will review your application in light of your CBT and PSV results, and either approve, reject, or request further information.

Oral Assessment (if required)

Depending on the job position you are applying for, the DHA may require you to take an oral assessment. 

To navigate this step

  • Schedule a date for the oral DHA exam in Dubai.
  • Pay the required fees for oral DHA exam registration (AED 250 for normal assessment; AED 2,000 for urgent).
  • Successfully complete the assessment.

Activate Your Professional License

Upon passing the oral Dubai Health Authority exam, you become a registered mental health professional. To activate your professional license, follow these steps:

Submit an online application, selecting the professional's registration.

Await approval from the relevant authority. Pay the license activation fees (ranging from AED 1,000 to AED 4,000).

Document Requirements

For your DHA license application, ensure you have the following documents:

  • A recent passport-size photograph
  • A copy of your valid passport
  • Educational qualifications
  • Experience certificates
  • Practice license or registration

Good Standing Certificate (GSC)

Additionally, specific requirements may apply which can be obtained at any of the visa medical centers in Dubai.

This step-by-step guide is designed to help aspiring mental health professionals navigate the process of obtaining and renewing a DHA license in Dubai. It is an essential resource for those seeking to provide high-quality mental healthcare services in the city.


If you, or someone you know, is in need of emergency care or urgent crisis intervention, please contact your local emergency numbers immediately