Dubai Health Authority

What is the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and what does it do?

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is a government organisation responsible for the health system in Dubai. It was established in 2007 under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

DHA takes care of planning, supervising, and improving health services in the emirate. It manages public hospitals and health centres, provides the licensing of medical professionals and facilities, and regulates private healthcare providers.

It also oversees the system of health insurance, runs awareness campaigns, supports medical education and research, and introduces smart health technologies to improve patient care.

What are the Services Provided by DHA?

DHA offers a wide range of healthcare services to meet the needs of people living and working in Dubai. These services support everyday health needs, emergency care, long-term treatments, and even medical licensing and research. Whether you’re a patient, a healthcare provider or a business, you can find services tailored to you.

How Can Residents Access Healthcare Services through DHA?

Residents in Dubai can easily access healthcare services through DHA. They can visit its hospitals, health centers, or use its online platforms. The body operates several government hospitals and primary health centers across the city. These facilities offer general medical care, specialist services and emergency support.

You can book appointments through the DHA app or the official website. You can also call the DHA customer service center for the same. Remarkably, the organisation also offers smart services like video consultations and digital prescriptions to make healthcare more convenient.

For those who prefer in-person visits, walk-ins are accepted at many DHA clinics, especially for urgent care and vaccinations.

What Health Insurance Rules Does DHA Enforce in Dubai?

Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Dubai. DHA has clear rules to make sure everyone — whether working or dependent — is covered. Given below are the key points —

1. Every resident must have valid medical insurance that meets DHA’s minimum coverage requirements
2. Employers are responsible for providing insurance for their employees
3. Sponsors must cover their dependents, including spouses, children, and domestic workers
4. Basic plans are available for those with lower incomes, especially domestic workers and labourers
5. Insurance must be linked to your visa — no valid health insurance means your visa cannot be processed or renewed
6. Only DHA-approved insurance providers are allowed to offer compliant plans in Dubai

The body also monitors insurance providers to ensure they follow the rules and provide fair coverage to the public.

What are the Latest Health Initiatives and Campaigns Run by DHA?

DHA regularly runs health campaigns and programs to raise awareness and improve public health in Dubai. These initiatives focus on prevention, early detection, and healthy living. Some of the most recent efforts include —

1. Breast Cancer Awareness Campaigns – Promoting early screening and check-ups, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month
2. World Diabetes Day Events – Offering free screenings, educational sessions, and lifestyle guidance
3. Mental Health Support Initiatives – Focusing on emotional well-being through public talks, digital support, and counseling access
4. Vaccination Drives – Including seasonal flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and childhood immunisations
5. School Health Programs – Promoting dental care, healthy eating, and general hygiene among students
6. Health Screenings in Public Places – DHA sets up mobile units in malls, parks, and workplaces for free health checks
7. Blood Donation Campaigns – Regularly organised through the Dubai Blood Donation Center

How Does DHA Support Residents with Chronic or Long-term Conditions?

DHA provides dedicated care for people living with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, and cancer. Here's how —

1. Specialised clinics in DHA hospitals and health centers provide ongoing care and treatment plans
2. Chronic disease management programs help patients manage their condition through regular monitoring, medication, and lifestyle advice
3. Home healthcare services are available for patients who need long-term care at home, especially the elderly and those with mobility issues
4. Education and awareness programs help patients understand their condition and make healthier choices
5. Telehealth options allow patients to consult with doctors from home, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits

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How to Get a Healthcare Professional or Facility Licence in Dubai?

To work in Dubai’s healthcare sector or open a medical facility, you must be licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). All licensing is handled through its Health Regulation Sector, which oversees registration, exams, and approvals for both individuals and facilities.

Follow the given steps —

1. Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and allied health workers) must apply for a professional license through the Sheryan portal. This is DHA’s official licensing system.
2. Applicants may need to pass a prometric exam, provide educational and experience documents, and complete a verification process.
3. Healthcare facilities (clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, diagnostic labs, and more) must also be licensed through DHA. This includes meeting building, safety, staffing, and equipment standards.
4. DHA regularly inspects licensed facilities to ensure they follow health and safety regulations.

All licensing procedures, applications, and guidelines are available through the DHA Sheryan system on their website.

What is NABIDH and How Does it Help with Medical Records?

NABIDH stands for National Backbone for Integrated Dubai Health. It is Dubai’s official health information exchange platform, managed by DHA.

NABIDH connects public and private healthcare providers in Dubai. It permits doctors to securely access a patient’s medical history when needed — with the patient's consent. This includes past diagnoses, lab results, prescriptions, allergies, and other medical details.

Here’s how NABIDH helps you —

1. No need to repeat tests — your medical records follow you, even if you visit a different clinic or hospital
2. Faster and safer care — doctors can see your history and make better decisions
3. More control — you can choose who has access to your records
4. Improved privacy — all data is stored securely and follows strict health data protection laws

NABIDH is part of DHA’s push to make healthcare smarter, more connected, and more efficient for everyone in Dubai.

How Does DHA Protect Public Health and Handle Emergencies?

DHA plays a leading role in keeping Dubai safe during health emergencies and protecting public health at all times. It works closely with hospitals, clinics, schools, and other government bodies to prevent the spread of disease and respond quickly when needed.

1. Disease monitoring – DHA tracks and reports infectious diseases like COVID-19, monkeypox and seasonal flu
2. Vaccination campaigns – It offers free and regular vaccinations to the public to prevent outbreaks
3. Emergency response teams – Special units are trained to handle public health threats and health-related crises
4. Health education – The body runs awareness campaigns to help people stay informed about prevention, hygiene, and safety
5. Preparedness plans – It has systems in place to respond quickly to pandemics, health scares, and emergencies in hospitals

How Can I Book Medical Appointments or Health Screenings?

Booking a medical appointment is quite easy. You can visit a health center in person or use DHA’s digital platforms.

Here are the main ways to book —

1. DHA App – You can download the official Dubai Health Authority app. You can use it to book appointments, view lab results, access prescriptions, and manage your health profile.
2. Website – Visit the DHA website (www.dha.gov.ae) to book online with any DHA facility.
3. Call Center – Dial 800 342 (DHA) for help booking appointments or getting information.
4. Walk-in – For general services and urgent care, you can visit DHA health centers. Note that you can do this without an appointment.
5. Smart Services – Some screenings and consultations are available via video call or virtual clinic, depending on the service.

Can Dubai Residents Get Treatment Abroad through DHA?

Yes, DHA offers support for eligible patients who need medical treatment outside the country. This is managed through its Overseas Treatment Office, which helps patients receive care abroad when the required treatment is not available in Dubai.

Here are the steps —

1. DHA doctors and a medical committee first review the patient’s case
2. If approved, the body arranges for treatment in a specialised hospital abroad
3. Travel, medical costs, and coordination with foreign hospitals are handled as part of the service
4. DHA also follows up with the patient during and after treatment to ensure proper care

This service is offered free of charge to eligible Emirati nationals. However, it’s only for serious medical conditions which require treatment that is not available in local facilities.

DHA Contact and Location Details

If you need help, want to ask questions, or book a service, the Dubai Health Authority makes it easy to get in touch.

📍 Main Office Address
Dubai Health Authority Headquarters
Oud Metha Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

📞 Customer Care
Call 800 342 (DHA) — available 24/7 for all inquiries and support

💻 Website
www.dha.gov.ae

📱 DHA App
Available on the App Store and Google Play — helps you book appointments, view medical reports, and access services anytime

📧 Feedback & Suggestions
You can submit complaints, suggestions, or compliments directly through the ‘Contact Us’ page on the website.

What if I Have a Complaint or Suggestion About a Healthcare Service?

DHA encourages patients and residents to share their feedback. This helps improve healthcare services across Dubai.

Here’s how you can submit feedback —

1. Call 800 342 (DHA) – You can speak to a customer service agent any time, 24/7
2. Online Form – Visit the official website and go to the ‘Feedback & Complaints’ section to fill out a form
3. DHA App – You can also submit feedback through the mobile app
4. In-person – Many DHA facilities have dedicated service desks where you can report issues directly

DHA reviews all complaints seriously and works to resolve them as quickly as possible. You will receive a case number and follow-up if needed.

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