DHA (Dubai Health Authority) approval process: (1) Submit health facility registration application with trade license and premises details, (2) Submit facility design drawings (clinical layout per DHA standards — minimum clinic size 100m², specific room dimensions for consultation, treatment, and diagnostic areas), (3) DHA Engineering Review of drawings (10–15 business days), (4) Upon design approval, proceed with fit-out, (5) Request DHA inspection after fit-out, (6) Pass inspection covering: infection control, equipment calibration, waste management, accessibility, and staffing, (7) DHA issues health facility license. Staff requirements: DHA-licensed doctors, nurses, and technicians must be registered with DHA before facility license issuance. Fees: AED 15,000–50,000 depending on facility type.
DHA Healthcare Approval: License & Facility Guide 2026
Complete guide to obtaining Dubai Health Authority (DHA) approval for healthcare facilities, clinics, medical centers, and pharmacies in Dubai. Covers the full approval process from health facility registration through facility design drawing submission for DHA Engineering Review (10–15 business days), fit-out execution meeting strict clinical space requirements (consultation rooms minimum 12m², treatment rooms minimum 15m²), DHA inspection covering infection control, equipment calibration, waste management, and accessibility, and final health facility license issuance. Explains DHA staff licensing requirements including Prometric examinations, equipment maintenance contract requirements, and facility-specific fee ranges of AED 15,000–50,000.
By Wasleen Liminal Approval Consultants — Approval Consultants
Back to Dubai Health Authority (DHA) ApprovalHow do I get DHA approval for a healthcare facility in Dubai?
DHA regulates all healthcare facilities in Dubai including hospitals, medical centers, clinics (general and specialized), pharmacies, diagnostic centers, and alternative medicine facilities.
Clinical space requirements are strict: consultation rooms minimum 12m², treatment rooms minimum 15m², waiting areas at least 8m², and separate male/female waiting where applicable. All clinical rooms must have hand-wash basins.
Infection control is a primary focus of DHA inspections. Requirements include: separate clean/dirty utility rooms, proper waste segregation (clinical vs. general), autoclave facilities (if surgical procedures performed), and air handling with HEPA filtration for certain procedures.
Equipment requirements vary by facility type but typically include: calibrated medical equipment with maintenance contracts, emergency equipment (crash cart, defibrillator), and diagnostic equipment as per scope of services.
Staff licensing: all healthcare professionals must pass DHA's eligibility verification, Prometric/ dataflow examination, and obtain a DHA professional license. The facility license cannot be issued until all staff are individually licensed.
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