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Key Takeaways
- DHA exam is a mandatory exam for the overseas pharmacist aspiring to become a registered pharmacist in Dubai
- This exam is a computer-based test (CBT) with 150 MCQs, to be answered in 3 hours
- A minimum qualification of B Pharm degree is eligible
- PSV or DataFlow verification of all your documnets is mandatory before the scheduling the DHA exam
- No negative marking
- Application is online via Sheryan portal → PSV → fee payment → exam scheduling → results → license issuance.
What Is the DHA Exam (Pharmacists)?
The Dubai Health Authority Exam (DHA) for Pharmacists is a mandatory for overseas-trained pharmacists aspiring to practise in Dubai. This is a Computer-Based Test (CBT).- This exam is administered via the Sheryan portal
- The exam can be delivered via Prometric centers.
- Candidates receive a Pass/Fail outcome in their Sheryan account (no numerical score disclosed but the minimum passing score is for pharmacists is 60%).
- A pass is required to work legally as a pharmacist in Dubai.
DHA Exam Eligibility for Pharmacists in Dubai
Candidates interested to apply must meet DHA’s Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR):- Education qualification: B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or PharmD from a recognised university
- License/Registration: Valid pharmacist license/registration in home country
- Experience: A minimum of post-registration work experience of 2 years in hospital or community pharmacy (pharmaceutical sales experience is not accepted)
- Good Standing Certificate (GSC) that is issued by licensing authority which is valid within 6 months
Required Documents & Verification for Pharmacists (PSV)
All documents must undergo Primary Source Verification (PSV) through DataFlow before exam scheduling. Required documents include:- Academic transcripts & degree certificate
- Professional experience certificates which are signed or stamped by employer
- Pharmacist licence or registration that is valid
- Good Standing Certificate
- Passport copy
- A recent passport-size photograph
DHA Exam Fees for Pharmacists (2025)
| Fee Component | Official / Approx. | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Assessment (Sheryan tool) | Official | Free |
| Manual Review (if required) | Official | AED 200 |
| Primary Source Verification (PSV – DataFlow) | Approx. (varies by documents) | ~AED 1,200–1,500 |
| DHA Exam Fee (CBT – Pharmacist) | Official (CBT Guideline) | USD 240 (≈ AED 880) |
| License Issuance Fee | Official (DHA Manual) | AED 1,000 |
DHA Exam Syllabus & Pattern (for Pharmacists)
Format: This exam is a computer based multiple choice questionnaire exam with a total of 150 MCQs to be complete in 3 hours with a passing score of 60%. One advantage of this exam is that there is no negative marking so do not leave any question unanswered.| Exam Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of the Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Total Number of Questions | 150 MCQs |
| Duration of the Exam | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Passing Score | 60% |
| Marking | No negative marking |
Exam Content Areas (from DHA Exam Guideline):
- Toxicology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Sterile & Non-Sterile Compounding
- Pharmaceutics / Biopharmaceutics
- Pharmacognosy & Dietary Supplements
- Pharmacy Calculations
- Clinical Pharmacogenomics
- Infection Control
- Pharmacokinetics
- Pharmaceutical Care & Disease State Management
- Medication Safety
- Over-the-Counter Medications
- Pharmacy Law & Ethics
- Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutic Decision Making
How to Apply for the DHA Pharmacist Exam
- Create a Sheryan account → Complete the online Self-Assessment Tool.
- Upload documents → Submit required files for PSV (DataFlow verification).
- Pay fees → PSV charges + exam fees as applicable.
- Schedule exam → Once PSV is cleared, book your CBT via Sheryan/Prometric.
- Sit the CBT exam → Attend at approved test center with valid ID.
- Results → Pass/Fail posted in Sheryan account.
- Licensing → If passed, complete final steps and pay AED 1,000 license issuance fee to obtain DHA registration.
Proven Tips to Pass the DHA Pharmacist Exam
- Practice with mock CBTs to master time management which is 150 questions in 180 minutes.
- Focus on disease state management, pharmacy law, ethics, and calculations.
- Review official DHA reference books and guidelines.
- Ensure PSV and GSC are ready early to avoid delays.
- Use structured study plans (3–4 months preparation is common).
Why Choose Elite Expertise for DHA Pharmacist Exam preparation?
- Elite Expertise is an online educational platform training overseas pharmacists
- Our DHA Exam Preparation Course and expert mentorship are designed to help overseas-trained pharmacists clear the exam on the first attempt
- Expert faculty support to strengthen weak areas with one to one doubt solving sessions
- Curated mock tests that simulate the original DHA exam conditions
- Assistance for eligibility check and document review
- Guidance for application submission process
- Best trainers who are clinical Pharmacists Mr Arief Mohammad and Mrs Harika Bheemavarapu with tremendous experience in training and mentoring the pharmacists abroad
- Comprehensive study material that is DHA exam focused
- Assistance at every step of your DHA exam journey
- Interactive and live classes
- Recorded sessions are provided too for learning at your own pace
Conclusion
The DHA Exam for Pharmacists is a clear step by step process for all the aspiring pharmacists to become registered in Dubai. This is the licensing pathway is your gateway to your dream career in Dubai. This is possible only with right preparation plan and expert guidance. When Elite Expertise, is here you are never alone in this journey. From best DHA trainers, to application assistance to structured training, DHA curated mock tests, and live mentoring, we we got you covered to fulfil your dream come true. By understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing the right documents, completing the PSV process, and along with strategically learning for the exam, it is possible to achieve your goal on your first attempt.FAQs – DHA Exam for Pharmacists
Maximum 3 lifetime attempts. After 3 failures, candidates must complete further qualifications and wait 2 years before reapplying. (DHA Professional Assessment Manual)
Pass result is valid for 5 years. The DHA license must be activated within this period to practice.
No negative marking. Each correct answer carries 1 mark.
Normally only CBT is required. Oral assessments apply only in exceptional cases or for specific specialisations.
Yes. Candidates must hold an active and valid pharmacist licence/registration from their home country at the time of application.
• Attested educational certificates & transcripts
• Proof of minimum 2 years’ pharmacy work experience
• Valid passport copy and recent photographs
• Pharmacist registration/license from home country
• Good Standing Certificate (recent)
