Key Highlights
- The DHA exam is a mandatory licensing test for overseas-qualified pharmacists who want to work in Dubai.
- It is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with 150 MCQs to be completed within 3 hours.
- Minimum qualification required: Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) or higher.
- Primary Source Verification (PSV/DataFlow) of all documents is compulsory before scheduling the exam.
- No negative marking is applied.
- Application process: Sheryan portal → PSV → Fee Payment → Exam Scheduling → Results → License Issuance.
What Is the DHA Exam for Pharmacists?
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Exam is a licensing examination for international pharmacists seeking to practice in Dubai. Conducted as a computer-based assessment, this test evaluates both academic knowledge and clinical application.
The DHA exam is administered through the Sheryan online portal and delivered at authorized Prometric centers worldwide. Candidates receive a Pass/Fail result in their Sheryan account (numerical scores are not disclosed). To qualify as a registered pharmacist in Dubai, a minimum score of 60% is required.
DHA Exam Eligibility Criteria (Pharmacists)
Applicants must meet the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) set by DHA:
- Educational Qualification: B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or PharmD degree from a recognized university.
- License/Registration: Must hold a valid pharmacist license/registration in the home country.
- Work Experience: Minimum 2 years post-registration work experience in a hospital or community pharmacy (pharma sales experience is not accepted).
- Good Standing Certificate (GSC): Must be issued by the relevant authority within the last 6 months.
Required Documents & PSV (DataFlow Verification)
Before scheduling the exam, applicants must complete Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow. Documents required include:
- Pharmacy degree certificate & transcripts
- Valid pharmacist license/registration
- Work experience certificates (signed & stamped)
- Good Standing Certificate (GSC)
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photograph (recent)
DHA Exam Fees for Pharmacists (2025)
| Fee Component | Status | Amount |
| Self-Assessment (Sheryan tool) | Official | Free |
| Manual Review (if required) | Official | AED 200 |
| Primary Source Verification (PSV – DataFlow) | Approx. | AED 1,200–1,500 |
| DHA Exam Fee (Pharmacist CBT) | Official | USD 240 (≈ AED 880) |
| License Issuance | Official | AED 1,000 |
Estimated Total Cost: AED 3,100–3,600 (≈ USD 850–980), depending on PSV variations.
(Source: DHA Professional Assessment Manual, CBT Guidelines, Sheryan Portal. Always cross-check on the official DHA website for the latest updates.)
DHA Exam Pattern & Syllabus for Pharmacists
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Questions: 150 Multiple Choice Questions
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Passing Score: 60%
- Marking Scheme: No negative marking
Key Content Areas (as per DHA Exam Guidelines):
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics
- Pharmacy Law & Ethics
- Pharmaceutical Care & Clinical Decision Making
- Pharmacy Calculations
- Pharmacokinetics & Biopharmaceutics
- Toxicology & Medicinal Chemistry
- Sterile and Non-Sterile Compounding
- Infection Control
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- Pharmacognosy & Dietary Supplements
- Pharmacogenomics
- Medication Safety
Standard References: Goodman & Gilman’s Comprehensive Pharmacy Review, Ansel’s Pharmaceutical Calculations, Applied Biopharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, Lippincott’s Biochemistry, among others, are recommended in DHA guidelines.
How to Apply for the DHA Exam (Pharmacists)
- Create Sheryan Account → Register on the DHA Sheryan portal.
- Self-Assessment Tool → Complete eligibility check online.
- Upload Documents → Submit academic, professional, and identity documents.
- PSV/ DataFlow Verification → Ensure all documents are verified.
- Pay Fees → Cover PSV and exam charges.
- Schedule Exam → Book your CBT slot at a Prometric test center.
- Sit the Exam → Attempt 150 MCQs within 180 minutes.
- Results → Pass/Fail will be posted in your Sheryan account.
- License Issuance → Pay AED 1,000 for final registration.
Expert Tips to Pass the DHA Pharmacist Exam
- Take mock CBT tests to manage time effectively (150 Qs in 180 mins).
- Revise law, ethics, pharmacy practice, and calculations thoroughly.
- Follow the official reference textbooks suggested by DHA.
- Prepare at least 3–4 months in advance with a structured study plan.
- Keep PSV & GSC documents ready to avoid delays.
Why Choose Elite Expertise for DHA Exam Coaching?
At Elite Expertise, we are dedicated to helping overseas pharmacists succeed in their licensing exams through a structured and supportive approach. Our training is led by experienced clinical pharmacists, Mr. Arief Mohammad and Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu, who bring immense expertise in guiding candidates through every stage of the DHA exam journey. We provide personalized mentorship, including one-to-one doubt-clearing sessions, ensuring that each student receives the attention they need.
To build exam confidence, we conduct mock test simulations that replicate real exam conditions, helping candidates master time management and familiarize themselves with question patterns. Alongside this, our team offers application assistance, including eligibility checks and document reviews, to minimize errors and delays in the registration process. With a blend of interactive live classes and recorded sessions, we make learning flexible and accessible to suit different schedules. Our comprehensive study materials, carefully curated to align with DHA exam requirements, further enhance preparation. At Elite Expertise, we ensure that no candidate feels alone in this journey, providing complete support from preparation to final success.
Conclusion
The DHA Exam 2025 is your pathway to becoming a licensed pharmacist in Dubai. By following the step-by-step application process, preparing with the right study plan, and choosing the right guidance platform like Elite Expertise, you can maximize your chances of clearing the exam on your first attempt.
Start your DHA pharmacist journey today with Elite Expertise – your trusted partner in pharmacy exam preparation.
FAQs About the DHA Exam for Pharmacists
1. How many attempts are allowed for the DHA exam for pharmacists?
Candidates usually get three attempts to clear the DHA exam. If unsuccessful, they may need to reapply under updated guidelines.
2. Can I take the DHA exam outside Dubai?
Yes, the DHA exam is conducted globally through Prometric test centers, so you can attempt it from your home country.
3. What is the passing score for the DHA pharmacist exam?
The passing score is 60%. Results are displayed as Pass/Fail in your Sheryan account.
4. How long does the DHA licensing process take?
On average, the entire process (from PSV to license issuance) takes 3–6 months, depending on document verification timelines.
5. What happens after passing the DHA exam?
Once you pass, you must pay the license issuance fee (AED 1,000) to officially register as a pharmacist in Dubai.