Dubai is a thriving hub for healthcare investment, attracting specialists and entrepreneurs from all over the world. Setting up a medical clinic in Dubai requires navigating regulatory processes with Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET), the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and other government bodies.
At Arab Asset Consulting, we guide you through the entire journey – from incorporation to licensing, compliance, and launch.
Here is a detailed step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1 – Company Formation (DET Mainland)
- Register your business as an LLC under DET.
- Secure trade name reservation and initial approval.
- Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA).
- Obtain the trade license for “Clinic” activity.
- Register for corporate tax and VAT.
Step 2 – DHA Sheryan Account and Initial Application
- Create a DHA Sheryan account.
- Appoint a Medical Director (licensed under DHA).
- Submit clinic application with details of specialty (for example endocrinology, genetics).
Step 3 – Facility Location and Layout Approval
- Select a clinic space that complies with DHA Facility Guidelines.
- Prepare architectural drawings (floor plan must include reception, waiting area, 3 to 4 consultation rooms, storage, pharmacy or dispensing room if applicable).
- Submit to DHA for pre-approval of premises layout.
Step 4 – Professional Licensing
- Doctors and Medical Director must undergo DHA professional licensing.
- Primary Source Verification (PSV) of medical qualifications.
- DHA exams if required.
- Malpractice insurance for each doctor.
Step 5 – Fit-Out and Regulatory Approvals
- Interior fit-out of the clinic as per DHA-approved design.
- Obtain Dubai Municipality approval for construction.
- Secure Civil Defense (DCD) approval for fire safety.
- Arrange a contract with a licensed medical waste management company.
Step 6 – Final DHA Facility Licensing
- Upload all documentation: staff roster, equipment list, policies and SOPs.
- DHA schedules a facility inspection.
- Upon successful inspection the DHA issues the clinic license.
Step 7 – Operational Readiness
- NABIDH Integration – electronic medical records linked to DHA’s system.
- Investor and staff visas through DET.
- Medical liability insurance for the clinic.
- Setup: signage, IT systems, billing or payment gateway, agreements with partner labs.
Estimated Costs and Timeline
| Process | Estimated Cost (AED) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Trade License (DET) | 12,000 – 15,000 | 2–3 weeks |
| DHA Sheryan Registration | 1,000 – 2,000 | 1 week |
| DHA Facility Application and Approval | 10,000 – 15,000 | 4–6 weeks |
| Professional Licensing (Doctors) | 5,000 – 7,000 per doctor | 4–8 weeks |
| Fit-Out and Compliance (DM, DCD) | 120,000 – 150,000+ | 6–8 weeks |
| Medical Waste and Insurance | 5,000 – 8,000 annually | Parallel |
| NABIDH Integration and IT Setup | 15,000 – 25,000 | 2–3 weeks |
| Total (Approx.) | 180,000 – 250,000+ | 10–14 weeks |
How Arab Asset Consulting Can Help
With healthcare being one of Dubai’s most regulated industries, it is essential to have a trusted partner. At Arab Asset Consulting, we provide:
- Business incorporation and DET trade license setup
- DHA professional and facility licensing support
- Assistance with location selection and DHA facility approvals
- Fit-out coordination and compliance management
- Corporate tax and VAT registration
- Visa processing and PRO services
- NABIDH integration and automation of reporting
- Advisory on cost optimization and scaling strategies
With Arab Asset by your side, you do not just get a consultant – you get a partner who manages the process end-to-end so you can focus on what matters most: your patients and your practice.
