Nursery Clinic Setup in Dubai: DHA License & Requirements 2026

Nurseries and Early Learning Centers in Dubai have an important responsibility to protect the health and safety of young children. Where a nursery chooses to operate a registered healthcare clinic, the facility must comply with the applicable Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licensing, staffing, design and child-care requirements.

Setting up a nursery clinic is different from establishing a conventional medical clinic because the healthcare facility operates within an early childhood education environment.

If you are planning a nursery clinic setup in Dubai, understanding DHA requirements before designing the clinic or recruiting healthcare professionals can help avoid licensing delays and costly modifications.

This guide explains the DHA nursery clinic license requirements in Dubai for 2026, including licensing, staffing, clinic design, documents, inspections and activation.

What Is a Nursery Clinic in Dubai?

A nursery clinic is a healthcare facility operating within a nursery or Early Learning Center (ELC) to support the health, safety and wellbeing of children.

DHA has specific standards covering clinics in nurseries and Early Learning Centers.

These standards address areas including:

• Clinic licensing
• Healthcare professionals
• Physical design
• Child safety
• Infection control
• Emergency preparedness
• Medication management
• Medical records
• Immunization-related requirements
• Health education
• Policies and procedures

The purpose is to ensure children receive appropriate healthcare support within a safe environment.

Does a Nursery Need a DHA-Licensed Clinic?

DHA’s standards provide different options for nurseries and Early Learning Centers.

The management can operate:

1. A registered clinic with a full-time DHA-licensed nurse, or
2. A registered clinic with a part-time DHA-licensed nurse, or
3. Operate without a registered clinic while complying with the alternative health and safety requirements specified by DHA.

Under DHA’s published standard, where a nursery or ELC does not have a registered clinic, at least 10% of staff must maintain valid certification in BLS or an internationally accredited heart-saver/CPR programme.

Therefore, a nursery should first determine which healthcare arrangement it intends to implement before beginning the clinic licensing process.

Who Regulates Nursery Clinics in Dubai?

The Dubai Health Authority regulates healthcare facilities and healthcare professionals operating under its jurisdiction in Dubai.

For a registered nursery clinic, DHA requirements can cover:

• Healthcare facility licensing
• Professional licensing
• Facility design
• Inspection
• Clinical operations
• Patient safety
• Infection prevention and control

The nursery or Early Learning Center itself will also need the appropriate education-sector authorization applicable to its operation.

Is a KHDA License Required for a Nursery Clinic?

When applying for healthcare facility licensing, DHA requires proof relating to the school or nursery.

DHA identifies the KHDA license as the school/nursery proof document, and specifically distinguishes it from the normal trade license.

This is an important document to prepare when planning a nursery clinic setup.

DHA License for a Nursery Clinic in Dubai

A registered nursery clinic must complete the applicable DHA healthcare facility licensing process.

DHA’s New Facility License service allows investors and authorized representatives to request a healthcare facility license.

The process generally involves two important stages:

New Facility License

The initial application is reviewed by DHA and, when approved, an inactive healthcare facility license is issued.

Facility License Activation

The facility must subsequently complete the activation requirements and pass the applicable inspection before beginning healthcare operations.

Receiving an inactive facility license does not mean the clinic can immediately start treating children.

The facility must reach active status before healthcare professionals begin clinical practice.

How to Set Up a Nursery Clinic in Dubai

The exact requirements depend on the nursery, clinic model and proposed healthcare services.

A typical process includes the following steps.

Step 1: Confirm the Nursery’s Healthcare Model

First determine whether the nursery will establish:

• A registered clinic with a full-time nurse
• A registered clinic with a part-time nurse
• An alternative arrangement permitted under the applicable DHA nursery standards

If establishing a registered clinic, proceed with the DHA facility licensing requirements.

Step 2: Review DHA Nursery Clinic Standards

Before designing the clinic, review the applicable DHA standards for clinics in nurseries and Early Learning Centers.

This is particularly important because the standards contain requirements covering:

• Physical design
• Healthcare professionals
• Equipment
• Child safety
• Clinical procedures
• Infection control
• Emergency care

Designing the clinic before understanding these requirements can result in expensive modifications later.

Step 3: Prepare the Clinic Proposal

DHA’s New Healthcare Facility License process requires facility information and a proposal as part of the application.

The proposal should accurately reflect the type of healthcare facility and the services being planned.

Step 4: Prepare the Engineering Layout

An engineering layout is required as part of the DHA new-facility application.

The layout should clearly identify the clinic areas and dimensions and comply with applicable DHA Health Facility Guidelines and nursery-clinic requirements.

Work with an experienced healthcare design or engineering company that understands DHA requirements.

Step 5: Prepare Nursery and Company Documents

Collect the applicable documents before submitting the application.

These can include:

• Owner or partner identification
• Nursery documentation
• KHDA license
• Engineering layout
• Facility proposal
• Trade license where available
• Other documents requested for the application

Requirements can vary according to the application.

Step 6: Apply Through DHA Sheryan

Healthcare facility licensing applications are submitted through DHA’s Sheryan system.

The applicant should:

• Access the DHA platform
• Select the New Healthcare Facility License service
• Complete the application
• Upload the required documents
• Pay applicable fees
• Submit the application for review

DHA then reviews the proposed healthcare facility.

Step 7: Obtain the Initial Facility License

After DHA approval, an inactive healthcare facility license is issued.

This allows the applicant to proceed with the remaining facility preparation and activation requirements.

However, clinical services cannot begin while the facility remains inactive.

Step 8: Complete the Nursery Clinic Fit-Out

Complete the clinic according to the approved layout and applicable DHA requirements.

The facility should be prepared for areas such as:

• Child assessment
• Treatment
• Medication storage
• Medical records
• Hand hygiene
• Infection prevention
• Emergency response
• Safe storage of clinical materials

The final facility should correspond with the approved engineering layout.

Step 9: Recruit DHA-Licensed Healthcare Professionals

A registered nursery clinic requires appropriately licensed healthcare professionals.

Under the DHA nursery and ELC framework, a registered clinic may operate with either a full-time or part-time DHA-licensed nurse, depending on the selected model and compliance with the applicable requirements.

Healthcare professionals must satisfy DHA professional licensing requirements before practicing.

Step 10: Prepare Clinic Policies and Procedures

A nursery clinic needs documented procedures to ensure consistent and safe care.

Policies may address areas such as:

• Emergency response
• Medication administration
• Infection prevention
• Child assessment
• Medical records
• Immunization information
• Communicable diseases
• Allergies
• Chronic health conditions
• Accidents and injuries
• Parent notification
• Referral procedures
• Medical emergencies

These procedures should align with current DHA requirements.

Step 11: Prepare for DHA Inspection

Before activation, make sure the clinic is fully prepared for inspection.

Review:

• Approved layout
• Furniture
• Medical equipment
• Emergency equipment
• Medication storage
• Infection-control arrangements
• Healthcare professional licensing
• Policies and procedures
• Medical records
• Safety requirements

Any deficiencies identified during inspection may need to be corrected before activation.

Step 12: Activate the DHA Facility License

After satisfying the applicable activation and inspection requirements, complete the DHA facility license activation.

Only after the facility is active should healthcare professionals begin providing clinical services under that facility.

DHA Nursery Clinic Room Requirements

The physical design of a nursery clinic should comply with the applicable DHA standards and Health Facility Guidelines.

The clinic should be designed specifically for safe healthcare delivery to young children.

Considerations can include:

• Safe access
• Appropriate clinical space
• Hand hygiene
• Infection prevention
• Secure storage
• Medical equipment
• Medication storage
• Emergency access
• Privacy
• Child safety
• Accessibility for People of Determination

Do not design a generic office room and assume it can automatically be converted into a compliant nursery clinic.

The engineering layout should be prepared according to the applicable healthcare facility requirements.

Accessibility Requirements

DHA’s standards place emphasis on accessibility for People of Determination.

The clinic should take applicable requirements from the Dubai Universal Design Code and relevant inclusion requirements into consideration.

Accessibility should therefore be addressed during the initial design stage rather than after construction.

Healthcare Professionals Required for a Nursery Clinic

Healthcare staffing depends on the clinic model and applicable DHA requirements.

A registered clinic can operate under the relevant DHA framework with:

Full-Time DHA-Licensed Nurse

The nursery can maintain a registered clinic with a full-time DHA-licensed nurse.

Part-Time DHA-Licensed Nurse

DHA’s nursery standard also provides an option for a registered clinic with a part-time DHA-licensed nurse.

The nursery must ensure that the selected staffing arrangement complies with all applicable requirements.

Does a Nursery Clinic Need a Doctor?

The staffing model should be determined according to the applicable DHA nursery-clinic standard, healthcare services being provided and the approved facility structure.

Do not automatically apply staffing ratios from a general medical clinic to a nursery clinic.

The requirements for the exact proposed facility should be confirmed during the DHA licensing process.

Nursery Clinic Equipment Requirements

A nursery clinic should maintain equipment appropriate to the age of the children and healthcare services being provided.

Equipment requirements can relate to:

• Child assessment
• Vital signs
• First aid
• Emergency response
• Infection control
• Safe medication storage
• Clinical examination
• Documentation

The exact equipment list should be checked against the current DHA nursery-clinic standards and inspection requirements.

Medication Management in Nursery Clinics

Medication administration in a nursery environment requires strong controls.

The clinic should have procedures addressing:

• Parent or guardian authorization
• Prescription requirements where applicable
• Medication labeling
• Storage conditions
• Expiry dates
• Administration records
• Emergency medicines
• Documentation

Medication should be stored securely and away from unauthorized access by children or other individuals.

Emergency Preparedness Requirements

Nursery clinics should be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies involving young children.

Potential emergencies can include:

• Allergic reactions
• Falls and injuries
• Breathing difficulties
• Seizures
• Fever
• Choking
• Loss of consciousness
• Other urgent medical conditions

The nursery should maintain appropriate emergency procedures, trained staff and referral arrangements.

Infection Control Requirements

Young children can be particularly susceptible to communicable infections.

The nursery clinic should maintain appropriate infection prevention and control procedures.

These can cover:

• Hand hygiene
• Personal protective equipment where required
• Cleaning and disinfection
• Clinical waste
• Exposure management
• Communicable disease procedures
• Isolation considerations
• Safe equipment handling

Staff should understand their responsibilities for reducing infection risks within the nursery environment.

Medical Records for Nursery Children

Nursery clinics should maintain appropriate healthcare information for children.

Records may include:

• Child identification
• Parent or guardian details
• Emergency contacts
• Medical history
• Allergies
• Chronic conditions
• Medication information
• Immunization information
• Clinic visits
• Injuries
• Treatments
• Referrals

Health information should be managed securely and confidentially.

Documents Required for DHA Nursery Clinic Setup

The exact documentation depends on the facility application.

Common documentation can include:

• Owner or partner passport copies
• Emirates ID where applicable
• Engineering layout
• Facility proposal
• KHDA nursery license/proof document
• Trade license where applicable
• Healthcare professional information
• Additional documents requested by DHA

Always check the current Sheryan service requirements before submitting an application.

DHA Nursery Clinic License Cost

Nursery clinic setup costs should be divided into regulatory and operational expenses.

Potential costs include:

• DHA facility application fees
• Facility license fees
• Engineering design
• Clinic fit-out
• Medical equipment
• Furniture
• Healthcare professional licensing
• Nurse employment
• Insurance
• IT and record systems
• Inspection-related modifications
• Annual renewal expenses

DHA’s New Facility License service currently lists initial approval fees that vary by facility category.

Therefore, avoid relying on a generic online figure for the complete nursery clinic setup cost.

The final investment depends on the facility category, design, staffing and existing nursery premises.

How Long Does DHA Nursery Clinic Licensing Take?

DHA currently lists an average processing time of 5 working days for its New Facility License service.

However, this should not be interpreted as the total time required to establish a nursery clinic.

The overall setup timeline can also include:

• Document preparation
• Engineering design
• DHA review
• Fit-out
• Healthcare professional licensing
• Inspection
• Corrective work where required
• Facility activation

Planning the layout and documentation correctly at the beginning can help reduce avoidable delays.

Can a Nursery Clinic Operate Before DHA Activation?

No registered healthcare facility should begin clinical operations merely because it has received initial facility approval.

An inactive DHA facility license must be activated.

Healthcare professionals should begin practicing through the facility only after the applicable licensing and activation requirements have been completed.

Common Mistakes When Setting Up a Nursery Clinic

Designing the Clinic Before Checking DHA Standards

A non-compliant layout can require expensive redesign and fit-out modifications.

Confusing the KHDA License With the Trade License

DHA specifically identifies the KHDA license as the school/nursery proof document. It is not the same as the commercial trade license.

Hiring Staff Without Checking DHA Eligibility

Confirm professional licensing requirements before finalizing recruitment.

Assuming Initial Approval Means the Clinic Can Operate

The healthcare facility must complete the activation process before clinical operations begin.

Using General Clinic Standards Without Checking Nursery Requirements

Nursery clinics have requirements specifically designed around young children and Early Learning Center environments.

Ignoring Infection-Control Requirements

Nurseries require particularly careful procedures because infections can spread quickly among young children.

Inadequate Emergency Planning

Staff should understand exactly how to respond when a child experiences a medical emergency.

Why Work With DHA Facility Setup Consultants?

Setting up a nursery clinic involves healthcare licensing, engineering design, professional licensing and regulatory compliance.

Experienced consultants can help coordinate:

• DHA facility licensing
• Activity selection
• Facility proposal preparation
• Engineering layout coordination
• Documentation
• Healthcare professional requirements
• Inspection preparation
• Facility activation
• License amendments and renewals

Beyond View Business Services can guide nursery and Early Learning Center operators through the applicable business and DHA facility setup process.

Start Your Nursery Clinic Setup in Dubai

A properly planned nursery clinic can provide an important layer of healthcare support and safety for young children.

The most important step is to design the facility and staffing model around the applicable DHA requirements from the beginning.

If you are planning a Nursery Clinic Setup in Dubai, contact Beyond View Business Services for professional guidance on DHA facility licensing, documentation, setup requirements and license activation.

Frequently Asked Questions – Nursery Clinic Setup Dubai

1. Does a nursery need a DHA clinic in Dubai?

DHA’s published nursery and ELC standards provide different healthcare arrangements, including registered clinics with full-time or part-time DHA-licensed nurses and an alternative framework for nurseries without registered clinics. The nursery must comply with the requirements applicable to the model it chooses.

2. Who licenses nursery clinics in Dubai?

Registered healthcare clinics operating within nurseries under DHA jurisdiction are licensed and regulated by the Dubai Health Authority.

3. Does a nursery clinic need a DHA-licensed nurse?

A registered nursery clinic operates under the applicable DHA staffing requirements. DHA’s published framework includes registered-clinic models using either a full-time or part-time DHA-licensed nurse.

4. What happens if a nursery does not have a registered clinic?

Under DHA’s published nursery/ELC standard, the alternative arrangement includes a requirement that at least 10% of nursery or ELC staff maintain current valid BLS or internationally accredited heart-saver/CPR certification, together with the other applicable requirements.

5. Is a KHDA license required for DHA nursery clinic licensing?

DHA identifies the KHDA license as the school/nursery proof document for healthcare facility licensing purposes.

6. What documents are required for a nursery clinic DHA license?

Common requirements can include owner or partner identification, engineering layout, facility proposal, nursery proof documentation, trade license where available and other documents required for the specific application.

7. How long does DHA initial facility licensing take?

DHA currently lists an average processing time of approximately 5 working days for its New Facility License service. The complete nursery-clinic setup takes longer because design, fit-out, staffing, inspection and activation may also be required.

8. Can the clinic start operating after receiving DHA initial approval?

No. An inactive facility license must be activated before healthcare professionals can begin clinical practice through the facility.

9. Does a nursery clinic need DHA inspection?

The facility licensing process includes activation and applicable inspection requirements. The clinic should be fully prepared and compliant before activation.

10. Can a nursery have a part-time nurse?

DHA’s published nursery and ELC standard includes a registered-clinic model with a part-time DHA-licensed nurse, subject to compliance with the applicable requirements.

11. Does the nursery clinic need an engineering layout?

Yes. DHA’s New Healthcare Facility License service lists an engineering layout among the required documents.

12. Does a nursery clinic need special medical equipment?

The clinic should have appropriate equipment and resources according to the applicable DHA nursery-clinic standards, approved services and inspection requirements.

13. What is the cost of setting up a nursery clinic in Dubai?

The total cost varies depending on DHA fees, engineering design, fit-out, equipment, staffing, professional licensing and other requirements. A project-specific cost estimate is more reliable than a generic fixed amount.

14. Can foreign-owned nurseries establish a clinic?

Healthcare facility ownership and licensing must comply with the ownership and facility requirements applicable to the proposed setup. The structure should be confirmed during the DHA application process.

15. How do I get DHA approval for a nursery clinic?

Prepare the required facility proposal and engineering layout, gather the applicable nursery and ownership documents, apply for a New Healthcare Facility License through Sheryan, complete the facility requirements and proceed through inspection and activation before beginning clinical operations.