What are the DET Activities requiring DHA Approval?

Unveiling the DET Activities Requiring DHA Approval: A Comprehensive Guide
Operating a healthcare business in Dubai requires a separate DHA license alongside your DED business license. This applies to facilities like hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies offering medical care.
Whether you are a medical professional or an entrepreneur looking to establish a healthcare facility in Dubai, understanding the process of obtaining DHA approval is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of obtaining DHA approval for your facility license.
Understanding the Importance of DHA Approval
DHA approval is a prerequisite for operating a healthcare facility in Dubai, ensuring compliance with the authority’s regulations and standards. It signifies that your facility meets the necessary criteria to provide quality healthcare services to the residents of Dubai. Obtaining DHA approval not only enhances your credibility but also instills trust among patients, contributing to the success and sustainability of your healthcare business. Without DHA approval, you may face legal implications and operational challenges that could hinder the growth of your facility.
Types of Activities Requiring DHA Approval for Facility Licenses
If you are planning to open a healthcare-related facility in Dubai, obtaining approval from the Dubai Health Authority is a crucial step in ensuring legal operation and regulatory compliance. The Dubai Health Authority oversees a wide range of healthcare services, and specific facility licenses are required depending on the type of activity your business will offer.
One of the most common activities that require Dubai Health Authority approval is the establishment of medical clinics. Whether you intend to offer general practice or specialized medical services such as dermatology, cardiology, or pediatrics, you must secure the appropriate facility license.
Dental clinics also require a dedicated facility license, as they involve direct patient care and specific hygiene and safety standards. Similarly, physiotherapy centers, rehabilitation clinics, and alternative medicine centers such as acupuncture and Ayurveda also fall under the purview of the authority’s licensing system.
Diagnostic centers, including laboratories and radiology units, must obtain facility licenses due to the sensitivity of testing procedures and the importance of accurate medical results. Pharmacies and medical supply stores also require approval before opening, ensuring that all medication handling and storage practices meet regulatory standards.
In addition, aesthetic clinics, day surgery centers, home healthcare services, and ambulatory care centers are among the growing healthcare services in Dubai that require prior approval and regular inspection.
Each category has unique infrastructure, staffing, and operational requirements. Therefore, understanding the type of facility license your business needs is essential for a smooth application process and long-term compliance. Working with experienced consultants can help streamline the documentation and approvals, allowing you to launch your healthcare facility confidently and in full accordance with Dubai Health Authority regulations.
Hospitals (General, Specialized, Day Surgical)
Clinics (General, Specialty)
Diagnostic Centers
Medical Laboratories
Ambulatory Surgical Centers
Pharmacies (Community, Retail)
Blood Banks
Home Healthcare Agencies
Dental Clinics
And other facilities offering
Each type of these healthcare facility licenses comes with its own set of requirements, qualifications, and regulatory standards that must be strictly followed to ensure full compliance with the regulations set by the Dubai Health Authority. Choosing the appropriate license is not just a formality—it directly impacts the range of medical services you are legally allowed to offer. Whether you plan to open a general clinic, specialty center, pharmacy, or diagnostic lab, aligning your chosen license with your business activities is essential. A deep understanding of the different license categories will help you avoid delays, reduce the risk of rejection, and streamline the entire approval process. Being well-prepared and properly guided from the beginning ensures a smooth licensing journey.
Requirements for Obtaining a DHA Facility License

To obtain a DHA facility license, you must fulfill a set of requirements outlined by the Dubai Health Authority. These requirements include valid trade license and typically having a qualified medical team with the necessary qualifications and experience, ensuring that your facility meets the minimum standards for infrastructure and equipment, and complying with all regulatory guidelines. Additionally, you may be required to submit various documents, such as proof of ownership or lease of the facility, business plan, medical team qualifications, and other relevant information. Meeting these requirements is crucial for a successful application process and obtaining your DHA facility license.
Fees and Costs Associated with Obtaining a DHA Facility License
Obtaining a DHA facility license incurs various fees. These fees typically include application fees, inspection fees, license issuance fees, and renewal fees. The exact amount of fees may vary depending on the type of facility license you are applying for and the services you plan to offer. It is important to factor in these costs when planning to open a healthcare facility in Dubai and ensure that you have the necessary financial resources to cover them. Understanding the fees and costs associated with obtaining a DHA facility license will help you budget effectively and avoid any financial surprises during the application process.
Renewing and Maintaining Your DHA Facility License
Once you have obtained your DHA facility license, it is important to renew and maintain it regularly to ensure continued compliance with regulatory requirements. DHA facility licenses are typically valid for a specific period, after which they must be renewed by submitting the necessary documentation, undergoing inspections, and paying the renewal fees. Failure to renew your license on time can result in penalties, fines, or even suspension of your healthcare facility’s operations. By staying proactive and keeping track of your license expiry date, you can avoid any disruptions to your healthcare services and maintain your facility’s compliance with DHA regulations.
Why Choose Dahhan Business Services?
Dahhan Business Services offers unmatched expertise and personalized support throughout the DHA licensing process. Here’s why you should choose us:
Expertise and Experience:
Our team has extensive knowledge of DHA regulations and processes, ensuring smooth navigation through the licensing requirements.
Authoritativeness:
We provide authoritative guidance and support, backed by years of experience in the healthcare sector.
Trustworthiness:
Our commitment to integrity and transparency ensures that your licensing needs are handled professionally and ethically.
Conclusion
By choosing Dahhan Business Services, you gain a reliable partner dedicated to simplifying the licensing process and ensuring your success in Dubai’s healthcare sector. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in obtaining and maintaining your DHA Facility license, positioning you for success in this dynamic and competitive market.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Dubai Health Authority approval, and why is it required?
Dubai Health Authority approval is a mandatory process for individuals and businesses in the healthcare sector who wish to operate legally in Dubai. Whether you’re a medical professional or planning to open a clinic, pharmacy, or diagnostic center, this approval ensures compliance with health regulations and patient safety standards.
2. Who needs to apply for Dubai Health Authority approval?
Anyone planning to work or invest in Dubai’s healthcare sector needs this approval. This includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab technicians, and those opening medical facilities or wellness centers in the emirate.
3. What are the steps involved in obtaining Dubai Health Authority approval?
The process includes submitting required documents, completing professional exams if necessary, securing facility licenses, and fulfilling health and safety standards. At Dahhan Business Services, we manage the entire approval process to ensure a smooth and compliant setup.
4. How long does the approval process take?
Depending on the type of application—individual license or facility license—the process can take from a few weeks to a couple of months. Timelines vary based on document readiness and government review schedules.
5. Can international healthcare professionals apply for Dubai Health Authority approval?
Yes, international professionals can apply, provided they meet Dubai’s eligibility criteria, including verified qualifications, relevant experience, and passing the required exams. Our team assists with credential evaluation and documentation submission to make the process easier.
6. What documents are required for healthcare facility approval in Dubai?
Common requirements include facility blueprints, lease agreements, ownership documents, medical equipment lists, and details about the practicing staff. Our specialists provide a customized checklist based on your facility type and business goals.
7. Can Dahhan Business Services handle the entire application process?
Yes, we provide end-to-end support for healthcare professionals and investors. From initial consultation to document preparation, submission, and follow-ups, our experienced team ensures full compliance with Dubai Health Authority regulations.
Call Us
Planning to work in Dubai’s thriving healthcare sector? Whether you’re an individual professional or setting up a medical facility, Dubai Health Authority approval is your first step. At Dahhan Business Services, we simplify the entire process—handling licensing, document preparation, and compliance checks. With our expertise, you’ll avoid delays and gain peace of mind knowing your application is in expert hands. Get in touch today for a free consultation and let us guide you through every stage of your approval and business setup.