How to Obtain a Certified Nurse Assistant License in Dubai

To legally work as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), you must obtain a license issued by the Dubai Healthcare City Authority Regulatory (DHCR). This process ensures that all healthcare professionals meet international standards for patient care and professional competency. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the application, exams, and licensing steps.

Procedure for Applying Online

Register for the DHCA Exam
- Visit the Dubai Healthcare Authority Portal.
- Click “Register” on the homepage to create an account.
- Complete the registration form with accurate personal details.
- Check your email and click “Complete Registration” to confirm.
Complete Your Profile
- Log back into the portal.
- Update your profile with personal and professional details.
- Upload a recent passport-sized photograph and set your password.
Apply for DHCA Exams
- Go to the “Services” tab → “Services for Individuals/Patients”.
- Choose “Academic Services” under “Category.”
- Select “Dubai Healthcare City Authority Exams – Certified Nurse Assistant.”
- Upload all required documents (see below) and submit.
Pay Exam Fees
- Review your application for accuracy, then submit.
- Download, sign, and re-upload the authorization letter generated.
- Proceed to the invoice page and click “Click to Pay Now.”
- Follow the on-screen payment instructions and print your receipt.
Credential Evaluation & Primary Source Verification (PSV)
- Wait approximately 6 weeks for credential evaluation.
- Upon approval, pay for Primary Source Verification (PSV), where DHCA verifies your qualifications, licenses, and experience.
Prometric Exam & Eligibility Letter
- Schedule and take the Dubai Prometric Exam (AED 260).
- After passing, download your Eligibility Letter—valid for one year.
Apply for the Certified Nurse Assistant License
- Log into the portal again and select “Licensing Services.”
- Upload your Eligibility Letter and submit.
- Pay the application fee online, download your receipt, and download your digital license.
- DHCA will notify you via phone or SMS when the physical license card is ready. Bring your ID and claim receipt to collect it.

Required Documents

Valid National ID
Passport (minimum 6-month validity)
Recent passport-sized photograph (white background)
High School Diploma or equivalent
Certificate of Good Standing (CGS) from your licensing authority (issued within 6 months)
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL ≥550 or IELTS ≥6.0 if your education wasn’t in English)
Clinical Work Experience Proof (minimum 1 year)
Verifications and registration certificates from all jurisdictions where you have practiced
Employment references confirming good health, character, and competence (at least two references)
Training transcripts with hours or an explanatory letter from your institution
DHCA Exam Results

Eligibility Criteria

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent and completion of an accredited Nursing Assistant Program.
Experience: Minimum 1 year as a Nursing Assistant.
Licensing: Must hold a valid professional license in your country of practice.
Certificate of Good Standing: Issued within the past 6 months.
English Proficiency: Required if education was not in English.
DHCA Exam: Must pass the Nursing Assistant Licensing Exam.

Fees

Initial Application Fee: AED 1000
Processing Fee (with PSV): AED 1000
Processing Fee (without PSV): AED 1300
License Card Fee: AED 520
Urgent Processing: AED 1000
Prometric Exam: AED 260

Validity

The Certified Nurse Assistant License is valid for two years. Renewal must be completed before expiry to avoid penalties or suspension.

Processing Time

Standard processing time is two weeks after completing all requirements and payments.

Contact Information

Dubai Healthcare City – Head Office
Mohammed Bin Rashid Academic Medical Centre (Building No. 14)
Right Wing – Second Floor, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE

Tel: +971 4 3838383
Toll-Free: 800-HEALTH (432584)
Fax: +971 4 3838359
Email: [email protected]
Website: Dubai Healthcare City Authority

Additional Information

Practicing without a valid CNA license in DHCC is a violation of regulations.
DHCR conducts Primary Source Verification to ensure the authenticity of your credentials.
DHCC, established in 2002, is a leading free zone offering world-class healthcare, education, and research facilities.
Maintaining your license helps uphold professional standards and ensures patient safety.

Other Uses of the License

Acts as proof of professional qualification for employment.
Required for participation in certain training programs and professional networks within Dubai Healthcare City.
Helps in securing work permits or visa renewals for healthcare professionals.