DOH
Government Entity — Abu DhabiMandatory for healthcare facilities

DOH — Abu Dhabi Department of Health

The regulatory authority for the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi. Issues licences for all healthcare facilities including hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and laboratories, accredits medical personnel, and oversees the quality of healthcare services in the emirate.

🔗 Official DOH Abu Dhabi Website

Healthcare Facilities Regulated by DOH in Abu Dhabi

Steps to Obtain a DOH Licence

1

Feasibility Study & Location Selection

Define the type of healthcare facility, services offered, and suitable location according to DOH area and equipment requirements.

2

Apply for a No-Objection Permit

Submit a no-objection request to DOH before beginning fit-out or finishing works.

3

Meet Facility Requirements

Fit out the facility to DOH technical standards: departments, medical equipment, data systems.

4

Register Medical Personnel

All doctors, nurses, pharmacists and assistants must be registered with DOH and hold valid practice licences.

5

DOH Field Inspection

A DOH team visits the facility to verify compliance with all requirements before granting the licence.

6

Receive DOH Licence + Complete ADCDA & ADDED

After the DOH licence, complete the ADCDA civil defence certificate and the ADDED trade licence.

Frequently Asked Questions about DOH

What is DOH Abu Dhabi?
DOH is the Abu Dhabi Department of Health (formerly HAAD — Health Authority Abu Dhabi), the regulatory body for the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi. It issues licences for healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, labs), accredits medical personnel, and oversees healthcare service quality.
Which facilities require a DOH licence in Abu Dhabi?
All healthcare facilities require a DOH licence, including: hospitals and medical centres, medical, dental and optical clinics, pharmacies and pharmaceutical warehouses, medical laboratories and blood banks, home healthcare centres, and radiology and medical imaging centres.
Does a pharmacy need a DOH licence in addition to an ADDED trade licence?
Yes. A pharmacy needs two separate licences: a trade licence from ADDED for commercial activity, and a pharmacy practice licence from DOH. It also requires DOH approval of the location and floor area, plus an ADCDA fire safety certificate.
How long does DOH licensing take for clinics?
The DOH licensing process typically takes 2 to 6 months for clinics, and can take a year or more for hospitals. The duration depends on completing all requirements, passing the field inspection, and obtaining accreditation for the facility and medical staff.

Calculate Your Healthcare Facility Requirements

DOH + ADCDA + ADDED and all authorities in one map

Calculate requirements →

Related Government Entities