Healthcare is a basic requirement for all of us. Investors in Dubai are always looking to get benefits from this sector. In Dubai, healthcare facility license approval authority is Dubai Health Authority (DHA) which issues the final permit to perform the activity.

How to Get a DHA Healthcare Facility License in Dubai – Step-by‑Step Guide.

Bringing your healthcare vision to life in Dubai? Whether you’re launching a clinic, specialty center, diagnostic lab, or wellness facility, our experts are here to help you navigate the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licensing process smoothly.

✅ Launch Your Medical Facility in Dubai with Confidence

Setting up a healthcare clinic, hospital, or medical center in Dubai? You need a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) Healthcare Facility License. This page will walk you through the requirements, steps, documents, timelines, and how our experts can help simplify the process for you.

🩺 What is a DHA Healthcare Facility License?

A DHA Healthcare Facility License is a mandatory approval for any entity offering medical, dental, cosmetic, wellness, or alternative therapy services in Dubai. It ensures your facility meets the technical, operational, and safety standards set by the Dubai Health Authority.

📋 Step-by-Step Guide to Get a Healthcare Facility License

Step 1: Finalize Your Business Setup

• Choose your business structure (LLC, Sole Establishment, etc.)
• Reserve a trade name and obtain initial approval
• Secure a physical location for your clinic/facility

Step 2: Register on DHA’s Sheryan Portal

• Create an account on the Sheryan DHA Portal
• Submit your facility license application online

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

• Owner’s passport copy & Emirates ID
• Floor plan approved by a licensed engineering consultant
• NOC from landlord
• Trade license (if already obtained)
• Proposed facility type & services offered

Step 4: DHA Site Inspection

• A DHA inspector will visit your facility to verify compliance with health and safety standards
• Modifications may be suggested if the facility doesn’t meet guidelines

Step 5: Approval & Issuance of License

• Once inspection and document review are complete, DHA will issue the license
• You can now legally operate and apply for staff licensing

⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

The typical processing time is 5–10 business days after all documents and inspections are completed.

🤝 Trusted by Healthcare Entrepreneurs & Professionals

With over 300+ successful licenses processed, our dedicated healthcare licensing team is trusted by:

• Doctors & Specialists
• Investors & Entrepreneurs
• Clinics, Polyclinics, & Diagnostic Labs
• Cosmetic & Wellness Centers

Following are the main activities which requires DHA approval.

• Hospitals
• General Clinic
• Specialty Clinic
• Polyclinic
• Pharmacy
• Drugstore
• Day Surgery Center
• Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center
• Laboratory
• Radiology
• Dental
• Diet and Weight Control
• Optics Center
• Fertilization Center

Processing of Healthcare Facility License:

The process of this license starts from the Dubai Economic Department. DED gives you the initial approval and ask you to get the approval from Dubai Health Authority. Then you will be required to provide certain documents to complete the DHA approval. New Facility License General requirements are:

1. Passport copies for local partner and UAE Emirates ID
2. Passport, visa and Emirates ID copies of all expat partners. For visit visa holders, no need of Emirates ID.
3. Engineering Layout/floor plan for facility. (should be from approved engineering office and clear furnished layout with rooms labels and measurement in SQM)
4. Engineering office Trade License. (should have activity of Interior Decoration or Architectural Prospective Drawings Services)
5. Proposal letter from owner / partners or who have power of attorney. (should clarify the location, specialists and services will provide signed by the all partners or who has the power of attorney with supported documents)
6. Affection plan from Dubai Municipality or Ejari.
7. Name Reservation from Dubai Economic Department (DED) or Free zone.
8. DHA undertaking letter from owner / partners or who have power of attorney.

Please note, every activity requires different set of document requirement, Contact us for more detailed information. Normal time frame of the DHA initial approval is 10 days.

After getting the Initial approval from DHA, you can get the trade license from DED. Meanwhile, you can complete the interior/exterior process of the location. Once you get the location ready, you need to apply for the final DHA permit. This process will take 15 days. You also need to add professionals and medical directors in the healthcare facility according to your activity. There will be an inspection from DHA and if everything is according to the guidelines of the DHA, they will approve the facility and issue the final DHA license. You can start giving your services once you get the DHA final permit.

If you want to start a healthcare facility license, send us an enquiry or Chat live now. We will be happy to help.

Are you looking to start a healthcare business in Dubai?

Our experts at Business Setup Dubai can guide you through the process of obtaining a healthcare facility license in Dubai. Learn about the requirements, benefits, and process of getting a DHA license in Dubai. Contact us to get started!”

• Requirements for Healthcare Facility License in Dubai:
  • Meet the eligibility criteria set by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
  • Submit the required documents, including business registration and insurance
  • Pass the inspection and meet the healthcare standards
• Benefits of Healthcare Facility License in Dubai:
  • Legally operate a healthcare facility in Dubai
  • Increased credibility and trust with patients
  • Access to exclusive healthcare listings
  • Stay updated with healthcare regulations and standards

Steps to Obtain a Healthcare Facility License in Dubai

1. Recognize the Regulatory Body
   The licensing of medical establishments in Dubai is supervised by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Make sure your facility complies with DHA’s regulations for equipment, staff qualifications, and infrastructure.
2. Select the Appropriate Organizational Structure
   Choose the business entity type:

Every business form, including sole proprietorships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and free zone companies (like Dubai Healthcare City), has unique benefits with regard to ownership, taxes, and operational flexibility.

3. Safe Locations
   Choose an appropriate site for your medical facility. The premises must meet DHA’s infrastructure and safety standards. You will need approval for the layout, including patient care areas, laboratories, and administrative spaces.

4. Send in preliminary approvals
   Request DHA first approval by submitting the following:

suggested design and layout for the facility.
Operational model and business plan.
Passports and Emirates IDs are examples of owner and partner documentation.

5. Employ Skilled Personnel
   Hire experts who hold DHA licenses. Medical degrees and certifications are among the specific requirements that staff members must fulfill. A Medical Director should also be appointed to supervise operations.
6. Get Approval for a Trade Name
   The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the place to register the commercial name of your healthcare facility. Make sure the name doesn’t clash with any existing entities and complies with Dubai’s naming regulations.
7. Complete the application for a license.
   Send DHA the entire application, including:

The facility’s lease.
evidence of employee licensure.
Certificates of inspection.

8. Inspection of the Facility
   The DHA conducts a thorough inspection to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Address any discrepancies promptly to pass the inspection.
9. 9. Obtain Final License
10. Upon successful inspection and approval, DHA will issue your healthcare facility license. You can now legally operate your business in Dubai.

Key Documents Required

Passport copies of owners and stakeholders

Emirates ID (for UAE residents)

Business plan and feasibility study

Facility layout and architectural plans

Proof of staff qualifications and licenses

Trade name approval

Costs Associated with Healthcare Facility Licensing

The costs for a healthcare license depend on the facility type and size. Key expenses include:

• Trade name registration
• DHA application fees
• Premises rental and fit-out costs
• Staff recruitment and licensure

🌟 Our End-to-End Licensing Support Covers:

• Business Setup Guidance: Free zone or mainland? We help you decide and get started.
• DHA Portal Registration: We manage your application through the Sheryan system.
• Documentation & Compliance: From floor plans to medical director approvals, we ensure all documents meet DHA standards.
• Facility Inspection Preparation: We help you prepare your premises to pass DHA inspections without delays.
• Fast-Track Licensing: We streamline your process to get licensed in as little as 5–10 working days.

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