Dubai announces new 2-year 'Visiting Doctor's Licence'

Professionals will also be able to sponsor their families during the licence's validity period.

The Dubai Healthcare City Authority has announced a Visiting Doctor's licence which allows international physicians, dentists, and Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) practitioners to enter the UAE, and work in up to three clinical facilities within the Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) free zone.

With the new license, physicians will be able to work for two years, once they obtain the Letter of Acceptance (document confirming their eligibility to work as physicians) and enter into a contract with a clinical facility. They will also be able to sponsor their families during the licence's validity period.

Earlier this month, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the Fifty-Year Charter that focuses on improving the quality of life in Dubai. One of the objectives of the charter is to transform the medical system of the emirate.

Dr Ramadan AlBlooshi, CEO, Dubai Healthcare City Authority - Regulatory (DHCR) said, "Attracting global medical expertise to serve the health of our citizens is one of the main pillars of the transformation of Dubai's medical system."

"The new 'Visiting Doctor's License' will help achieve this as it provides flexibility and mobility for global, high-caliber physicians wishing to work in Dubai Healthcare City, consequently increasing unique expertise in the free zone," he said.

Currently, visiting doctors can practice temporarily in the free zone only through a licence obtained by the clinical facilities, which is valid for a three-month-period; with the option to extend by an additional three months only.

Eligible healthcare professionals can apply for the license starting from January 20 and a special Arab Health license fee rate will be offered from that date until the concluding day of the exhibition on January 31. To apply, log on to the e-services portal, Masaar.

This licence, which aims to attract international medical talent to Dubai, is being introduced ahead of Arab Health, the largest exhibition for healthcare and trade professionals in the Middle East. During, its 15th consecutive year of participation, DHCC will showcase its developments and projects in healthcare, medical education, and regulation, along with its wellness expansion, aimed at advancing the healthcare sector and strengthening Dubai's economic resilience.