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Key Take aways:
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The DHA Exam is mandatory for pharmacists to work in Dubai.
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Total DHA cost for pharmacists ranges AED 2,700–3,500 in 2025.
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Major fees include DataFlow, exam fee, and license activation.
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Extra charges may apply for translation, rescheduling, or re-exams.
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Taking the exam from India can help reduce travel expenses.
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Always check the DHA Sheryan portal for updated official fees.
Introduction:
Working as a licensed pharmacist in Dubai is an excellent career opportunity—but before you begin, you must clear the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Exam. One of the most common questions pharmacists ask is: “How much does the DHA exam cost?”
This 2025 pharmacist-focused guide breaks down all DHA exam fees, hidden charges, and smart ways to save money during your application.
What Is the DHA Exam and Who Needs It?
The DHA Exam is a mandatory licensing test for pharmacists who want to work legally in Dubai. It evaluates your knowledge, clinical judgment, and eligibility to practise in UAE healthcare settings.
You need the DHA Exam if you are:
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A B.Pharm or Pharm.D graduate
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A registered pharmacist in your home country
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An experienced pharmacist planning to work in Dubai
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An internationally trained pharmacist (India, Philippines, Pakistan, UK, etc.)
Pharmacists cannot work in Dubai without clearing:
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DataFlow Verification (PSV)
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DHA Eligibility + Exam
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DHA Professional License Activation
How Much Does It Cost to Take the DHA Exam?
Below is the typical 2026 DHA cost structure for pharmacists:
DHA Pharmacist Exam 2025 – Format & Fees
|
Component |
Details |
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Mode of Exam |
Computer-based, online |
|
No. of Questions |
150 Multiple-Choice Questions |
|
Duration |
3 hours |
|
Passing Score |
60% |
|
Exam Fee |
USD 240 (approx. AED 882, as of Sept 2025) |
|
PSV Fee (document verification) |
AED 935 |
Elite Expertise: Your Partner in Cracking the DHA Exam
Elite Expertise offers dedicated DHA exam training exclusively designed for pharmacists, helping you master the syllabus, understand exam patterns, and prepare with confidence. With structured lessons, mock tests, previous-year question discussions, and expert guidance from experienced clinical pharmacists, Elite Expertise ensures you’re fully prepared to clear the DHA exam on your first attempt. If your dream is to become a licensed pharmacist in Dubai, Elite Expertise gives you the right support, strategy, and mentorship to make it a reality.
Are There Hidden or Extra DHA Charges?
Yes—many pharmacists are unaware of additional expenses. Here are the common extra DHA-related costs:
Possible Additional Charges
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Document Translation / Notary / Attestation
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Good Standing Certificate Fees
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Manual Review Fee (if documents need special verification)
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Re-exam Fees (if you fail the first attempt)
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Exam Rescheduling Charges
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Visa & Travel Costs (if taking exam in Dubai)
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Extra DataFlow Documents (each document costs separately)
Plan your budget by keeping an extra 10–20% buffer amount for these charges.
How to Save Money During the DHA Application Process?
Here are smart ways pharmacists can reduce DHA exam expenses:
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Collect all documents correctly to avoid repeated verification fees
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Take the exam from India instead of travelling to Dubai
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Avoid rescheduling because it adds extra charges
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Prepare well and aim to pass in the first attempt
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Use government-approved attestation centres for cheaper processing
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Check official fee updates before applying
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Avoid unnecessary additional documents in DataFlow
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Good preparation = fewer reattempts = big savings
Where Can You Find the Official DHA Fee Updates?
Always verify the latest DHA pharmacist fees from official sources:
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DHA Sheryan Portal – for licence, exam, and application fees
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DataFlow Group Portal – for PSV fee updates
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Prometric Website – for exam booking cost
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Dubai Health Authority Official Website
These platforms update fees regularly, so checking before payment is essential.
Conclusion:
For pharmacists aiming to build a career in Dubai, understanding the DHA exam cost is an essential first step. In 2025, you can expect the complete DHA licensing process—including DataFlow, exam fees, and license activation—to range between AED 2,700 and 3,500, depending on your documents and test location. While additional expenses like translation, attestation, and re-exam fees may arise, careful planning and proper preparation can keep your costs low and your process smooth.
By staying updated through the official DHA portals and preparing thoroughly for the exam, you can confidently move toward your goal of becoming a licensed pharmacist in Dubai. If you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary delays, the DHA journey becomes simpler, faster, and more affordable. Let this guide be your starting point toward a successful pharmacy career in the UAE.
Frequently asked question:
1. How much does the DHA exam cost for pharmacists in 2025?
Around AED 2,700–3,500 including verification and licensing.
2. What is the exam fee alone?
Approximately AED 882, depending on the conversion rate
3. How much does DataFlow (PSV) cost for pharmacists?
Usually AED 935, based on the number of documents.
4. Are there hidden DHA fees?
Yes—translation, attestation, rescheduling, and re-exam fees.
5. Do I need to pay again if I fail the DHA exam?
Yes, re-attempts require paying the exam fee again.
6. Can I take the DHA pharmacist exam from India?
Yes, Prometric centres in India allow DHA exam booking.
7. Is license activation included in the exam fee?
No, license activation costs AED 800–1,000 separately.
8. Do exchange rates affect the total cost?
Yes, especially if paying from India in INR.
9. Where can I check official DHA fee updates?
On the DHA Sheryan Portal, Prometric, and DataFlow websites.
10. Is DHA exam cost the same for all healthcare professionals?
No, fees differ—this estimate is specific to pharmacists.
