Is There Any Way to Gain 2 Years of Clinical Experience in the UAE Instead of Your Home Country for the DHA Licensing Exam?
Yes, now there is a way to gain 2 years of clinical experience in the UAE if you currently reside there, making you eligible for the DHA licensing exam. My experience as a dentist from India will shape the discussion for a dental license perspective.
Introducing the Experience Equivalency Program
Dubai Health Authority (DHA), along with other Emirate authorities, has recently introduced a new program called the Experience Equivalency. This program allows you to apply for a Trainee license if you have moved to the UAE but do not have the required 2 years of experience. By enrolling in this program, you can select from a list of approved hospitals and medical centers to complete your clinical training. However, there is a cost involved; the monthly fees typically range from AED 1,500 to 2,500 depending on the chosen institution.
Key Considerations for Opting for the Experience Equivalency Program
Given the financial aspect, my recommendation is to opt for the Experience Equivalency program only if you already have a residence visa, are settled in Dubai, and have a steady income or financial support from your parents or spouse.
Options Outside of the UAE
If you are already in another country outside the UAE, you have the flexibility to gain your clinical experience there. However, you should be aware that medical facilities in Dubai, including dental and other healthcare providers, strictly adhere to DHA guidelines that prohibit the employment of trainees who are looking to gain clinical experience in the UAE.
Specialization-Specific Opportunities
It would be beneficial to share more about your specific specialty, as there are different options available depending on your field of expertise. For instance, if you are a dentist, there are various positions recognized by the DHA that require a fee for attendance but are approved for furthering your clinical experience.
Pharmacists and Trainee Positions
For pharmacists, there is a unique opportunity. Holders of a bachelor's degree or diploma in pharmacy can apply for a trainee position in Dubai pharmacy companies. As a trainee, you must work for at least two years, and the pharmacy itself will apply for the DHA license on your behalf. Importantly, you need to be physically present in Dubai to apply for a trainee pharmacist job.
Healthcare Professionals in Other Fields
As for other healthcare professionals such as nurses, medical technicians, and other related designations, the current DHA guidelines do not explicitly permit them to gain work experience in the UAE through trainee positions. This means that any work experience beyond basic medical or administrative support roles in the UAE would likely not be recognized for licensing purposes.
Conclusion
In summary, while you can gain 2 years of clinical experience in the UAE through the Experience Equivalency program, you must be financially and personally prepared to handle the associated costs and requirements. Additionally, for pharmacists, there is a specific pathway, but for other healthcare professionals, the options are more limited.