Health Facility License in the UAE
A Health Facility License is a mandatory requirement for establishments offering healthcare services in the UAE. It ensures compliance with the UAE’s healthcare regulations and enables facilities to operate legally while maintaining high standards of medical care.
Who Needs a Health Facility License?
Any healthcare establishment providing medical services must obtain this license from the relevant health authority, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Department of Health (DOH) – Abu Dhabi, or the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
A Health Facility License is required for:
- Hospitals and Medical Centers
- Clinics (General, Specialized, Dental, and Alternative Medicine)
- Diagnostic Centers (Radiology, Laboratories, etc.)
- Day Surgery Centers
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinics
- Home Healthcare Service Providers
- Pharmacies and Medical Supply Stores
Legal Authorization
- Allows the facility to operate legally in the UAE.
Enhanced Credibility
- Increases patient trust and compliance with international healthcare standards.
Access to Medical Insurance Networks
- Enables the facility to partner with insurance providers for patient claims.
Regulatory Compliance
- Ensures adherence to UAE laws, reducing the risk of legal issues.
Business Expansion
- Allows medical facilities to grow by offering specialized healthcare services.
Advantages of a Health Facility License
Legal Authorization
- Allows the facility to operate legally in the UAE.
Enhanced Credibility
- Increases patient trust and compliance with international healthcare standards.
Access to Medical Insurance Networks
- Enables the facility to partner with insurance providers for patient claims.
Regulatory Compliance
- Ensures adherence to UAE laws, reducing the risk of legal issues.
Business Expansion
- Allows medical facilities to grow by offering specialized healthcare services.
Documents Required for a Health Facility License
General Documents
- Copy of the facility owner’s passport, Emirates ID, and UAE residence visa
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval from the respective health authority (DHA, DOH, or MOHAP)
- Lease agreement for the facility premises
- Floor plan of the facility approved by the relevant municipality
- List of medical equipment and specifications
- Approval from the Civil Defense Department for fire safety
Professional Documents
- Medical Director’s qualifications, license, and experience certificates
- Details of healthcare professionals working in the facility (licenses, qualifications, and visas)
- Facility policies, procedures, and infection control guidelines
Government Fees
The cost of a Health Facility License varies depending on the type of facility and emirate. Fees may include:
- Initial Approval Fees – AED 3,000 to AED 5,000
- Final License Issuance Fees – AED 10,000 to AED 20,000
- Additional Fees – Municipality approvals, Civil Defense clearance, and professional licensing fees
Validity of a Health Facility License
A Health Facility License is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Renewal requires a compliance audit, updated staff licenses, and fee payment
Who is Exempt from a Health Facility License?
A Health Facility License is not applicable to:
- Freelance Healthcare Professionals – Individuals with a DHA/DOH/MOHAP license providing services without a facility.
- Educational Institutions Offering Health Courses – Unless they operate a clinic within their premises.
- Medical Representatives and Pharmaceutical Companies – As they do not provide direct healthcare services.
- Wellness Centers without Medical Services – Such as yoga centers and fitness gyms unless offering physiotherapy
To know the process of Health Facility License, Request a Call Back
Conclusion
A Health Facility License is essential for operating a healthcare business in the UAE. Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements not only facilitates smooth operations but also builds credibility and trust within the healthcare industry. For professional assistance with licensing, documentation, and approvals, contact us today!