Nurse Jobs in Dubai: Complete Guide to Requirements, DHA License, Vacancies & Salaries

Aamer Jarg
Aug 22
3 min read

Updated: Sep 11

Smiling healthcare professionals in blue scrubs give thumbs up. Text: "Nursing Jobs in Dubai: Vacancies, DHA License & Requirements."

Introduction

Considering a nursing career in Dubai? With tax-free salaries between AED 6,000 and AED 15,000 (Source: Naukri), cutting-edge hospitals, and a rapidly increasing demand for skilled professionals, Dubai continues to be a top global destination for nurses. This detailed guide includes information on DHA licensing, the latest job openings, expected salary ranges, and how Talent Shark can assist you in finding your perfect job opportunity.

Why Work as a Nurse in Dubai?

Tax-free salaries plus housing, transport, annual flights, and insurance.
Diverse career paths in government, private, home care, and niche specialty clinics.
High demand roles: ICU, ER, Pediatrics, Dermatology, and Aesthetics.
Safe, modern lifestyle: Multicultural living and advanced infrastructure.

With expert support, international nurses can thrive in Dubai’s rewarding and fast-paced healthcare scene (Naukri).

Nurse Licensing in Dubai: Step-by-Step DHA Guide

All nurses must obtain a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) License to work legally.

Check Eligibility: BSN or recognized nursing diploma plus valid home country license. Diploma holders should have at least 2–3 years’ clinical experience.
DataFlow Verification: Primary Source Verification (PSV) for all documents.
DHA Exam: Computer-based nursing competence test (Prometric).
Registration & Activation: Pass the exam, then employer sponsors license activation.

Official Resource: Start the process and self-assess eligibility via the [Dubai Health Authority Sheryan portal].

Timeline: 3–6 months

Costs: AED 2,000–3,000 (DataFlow, exams, licensing fees)

Nurse Vacancies in Dubai (2025)

Dubai’s health sector lists over 3000+ nurse job vacancies as of August 2025.

Hot specialties include:

ICU & Emergency Nurses
Pediatric & Neonatal Care Nursing
Operating Theatre Nurses
Dermatology & Aesthetics Nurses
Home Healthcare Nurses

Pro Tip: Niche roles like Dermatology and Aesthetics command higher pay and are mostly in private clinics.

Government vs. Private Sector Nursing

Feature	Government Hospitals	Private Hospitals/Clinics
Salary Range	Often slightly lower	Higher (especially niche)
Allowances & Benefits	Structured, generous	Competitive, fast-hiring
Job Security	High, stable	Moderate, growth-oriented
Relocation Support	Standardized packages	Varies, often quick placement

Many top employers fill exclusive jobs via agencies like Talent Shark, bypassing public boards.

Nurse Salaries in Dubai (2025)

Role / Specialty	Govt Hospitals (AED)	Private Sector (AED)	Benefits
Staff Nurse (General)	7,000–10,000	6,000–8,500	Housing, flights, insurance
ICU/Emergency	10,000–13,000	8,000–12,000	Same
Pediatric/Neonatal	9,000–12,000	7,500–11,000	Same
Operating Theatre	11,000–14,000	9,000–13,000	Same
Dermatology/Aesthetics	N/A	10,000–15,000	Premium clinics, same

Salaries vary by experience, employer type, nationality, and specialty—government hospitals typically offer higher allowances and career progression, while private clinics can offer higher base pay for premium roles.

Benefits: Housing allowance, health insurance (self/dependents), annual flights, paid leave.

How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in Dubai

Direct Hospital Websites: Regularly check leading hospital careers pages.
Recruitment Agencies: Work with specialists like Talent Shark for the latest and unpublished roles.
LinkedIn & Job Portals: Bayt, Naukrigulf, Indeed—search "staff nurse vacancy Dubai," "nursing jobs Dubai for foreigners," etc.

Employers strongly prefer candidates with an active DHA eligibility letter—secure this early to boost your selection odds.

Steps to Work as a Nurse in Dubai

Update your CV, credentials, and good standing certificate.
Register with DHA via the Sheryan portal and begin DataFlow.
Schedule and clear the DHA exam.
Apply through Talent Shark for exclusive roles.
Complete interviews and employer formalities.
Secure visa sponsorship, relocate, and begin your Dubai journey!

FAQs

Q: Can foreign nurses apply for jobs in Dubai?

Yes. International nurses are welcome provided they meet DHA licensing and experience requirements.

Q: How long does it take to get a DHA license?

3–6 months on average, depending on speed of document verification and exam.

Q: Which nursing specialty is most in demand in Dubai in 2025?

ICU, pediatrics, and dermatology/aesthetics are top specialties.

Q: What benefits do nurses get?

Standard packages include housing, health insurance, annual flights, and paid leave.

Talent Shark Advantage: Your Trusted Recruitment Partner

We specialize in connecting nurses with Dubai’s best hospitals and clinics — from government roles to private clinics and high-growth specialties. Talent Shark supports you with: