Dubai has positioned itself as one of the most accessible international healthcare markets for foreign trained dentists. Unlike traditional destinations where licensing can take years, Dubai offers a clearly defined, exam driven pathway with predictable timelines and tax free income potential. For Indian BDS graduates, this makes Dubai a highly attractive option for rapid international clinical exposure.
However, speed does not mean simplicity. The Dubai Health Authority applies strict eligibility checks, mandatory DataFlow verification, and a competency based licensing exam. Degrees alone, including MDS qualifications, do not bypass these requirements. Dentists who succeed are those who understand the system early and prepare accordingly.
Inforens works with dentists to translate DHA regulations into a structured action plan. By aligning eligibility, documentation, exam readiness, and job strategy from the outset, Inforens helps candidates pursue Dubai as a calculated career move rather than a risky trial.
Licensing Pathway & Registration Body
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is the sole regulatory body responsible for licensing dentists in the Emirate of Dubai.
All applications are processed through Sheryan, DHA’s official online licensing portal.
👉 Get DHA licensing guidance from Inforens experts.
Masters vs Exam Route – The Truth
A common misconception is that an MDS guarantees a Dubai license. This is false.
- BDS graduates → Apply as General Dentist
- MDS graduates → Eligible for Specialist Dentist category
Critical Clarification
No degree—Indian or international—grants automatic right to practice.
Every dentist must clear the DHA exam and complete DataFlow verification.
Top Dental Universities in the UAE (Academic Value Only – 2026)
Dubai and the UAE host several well-known dental universities. However, no university in the UAE can grant or fast-track a DHA dental license. These institutions are relevant only for academic advancement or specialist training, not for bypassing exams.
For Indian BDS graduates, they may add value after or alongside DHA licensing, depending on career goals.
1. Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)
Location: Dubai
Why it stands out:
- UAE government-backed medical university
- Strong clinical exposure through Dubai Health facilities
Programs:
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
- Postgraduate clinical training
⚠️ Graduation does not waive DHA exam or DataFlow.
2. Gulf Medical University (GMU)
Location: Ajman
Why it stands out:
- One of the oldest private medical universities in the UAE
- Popular among international students
Programs:
- BDS
- MDS programs
⚠️ Licensing still depends on DHA exam + experience.
3. University of Sharjah – College of Dental Medicine
Location: Sharjah
Why it stands out:
- Strong academic reputation
- Research-oriented dental training
Programs:
- BDS
- Postgraduate dental education
⚠️ Does not provide automatic DHA eligibility.
4. Ajman University – College of Dentistry
Location: Ajman
Why it stands out:
- Established dental college with clinical exposure
- Accepts international candidates
Programs:
- BDS
- MDS
⚠️ Clinical practice in Dubai still requires DHA licensing.
5. RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU)
Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Why it stands out:
- Recognised medical university in the northern Emirates
- Affordable compared to Dubai institutions
Programs:
- BDS
⚠️ Does not influence DHA exam outcomes.
Official Registration Steps (DHA-Mandated)
- DHA Self-Assessment Tool
Confirms eligibility and professional title before application.
2.DataFlow Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Verifies degree, license, and experience directly from issuing authorities.
3. DHA Prometric Exam
Mandatory clinical competency exam.
4. Eligibility Letter
Issued after passing the exam—allows job search.
5. License Activation
Done only after securing employment with a DHA-licensed facility.
Eligibility Requirements (Strictly Enforced)
To apply for a DHA dental license, you must meet all of the following:
Educational Recognition
- BDS degree from a Dental Council of India (DCI)–recognized college
Experience Requirement (Non-Negotiable)
- Minimum 2 years of clinical experience after internship
- Compulsory internship does NOT count
Licensing & Conduct
- Active dental registration in India
- Good Standing Certificate (GSC)
- Issued by State Dental Council
- Must be less than 6 months old
Failure to meet the experience rule is the most common reason for rejection.
DHA Dental Exam (Prometric)
The DHA exam is a computer-based clinical exam conducted by Prometric and can be taken in India.
Exam Structure
- 150 MCQs
- 150 minutes
- Passing score: 65%
- Maximum attempts: 3
If all three attempts are exhausted, DHA requires additional training and a waiting period before reapplication.
Exam Nature
- Highly clinical and scenario-based
- Focus on diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management
- Not theory-heavy like Indian entrance exams
Weightage Overview
- Oral Medicine & Oral Surgery – ~40%
- Restorative Dentistry – ~35%
- Endodontics – ~25%
DataFlow PSV (Primary Source Verification)
DataFlow verification is mandatory and often the longest step.
Documents verified:
- BDS degree
- Internship completion
- Work experience certificates
- Indian dental license
Timeline
- Typically 30–45 days
- Can extend if universities or employers delay responses
Tip: Start DataFlow immediately after eligibility confirmation to avoid delays.
Timeline – How Fast Is Dubai Really?
Dubai is one of the fastest international licensing systems, but only if documents are ready.
Realistic Timeline
- Month 1: Document collection + DataFlow submission
- Month 2: DataFlow completion
- Month 3: Exam booking + preparation
- Month 4: Exam + eligibility letter
- Month 5–6: Job search & license activation
Fast-Track Reality
In ideal cases, dentists complete licensing within 4–6 months.
👉 Build a fast-track Dubai plan with Inforens.
Cost Breakdown (2026 Estimates)
Fees may vary slightly based on document volume and currency rates.
Salary & Career Prospects (Tax-Free)
👉 Plan your Dubai job strategy with Inforens.
Additional Benefits (Employer-Dependent)
- Accommodation or housing allowance
- Health insurance
- Annual flight tickets
- End-of-service gratuity
- Commission on procedures
Language Requirements
- DHA does not always mandate IELTS/OET for Indian BDS graduates
- However, many employers require it for visa processing
Typical requirement:
- IELTS Academic 6.0–7.0
- OET Grade C+
Pros & Cons of Practicing Dentistry in Dubai
Advantages
- Tax-free income
- Fast licensing timeline
- High clinical standards
- Proximity to India
- Global patient exposure
Limitations (Must Be Stated Clearly)
❌ No permanent residency or citizenship pathway
❌ Employment-dependent visa
❌ High cost of living
❌ Strong competition
❌ Sales-oriented private sector
Conclusion
Dubai is a strong option for dentists who want fast licensing, tax free income, and international clinical exposure. While it does not offer permanent residency, it provides clear regulations and quick career entry for eligible candidates. With proper planning, correct documentation, and guidance from Inforens, Indian BDS graduates can successfully build a rewarding dental career in Dubai.