By Shincy George, Nursing Manthra
Published on May 9, 2025
Are you a healthcare professional dreaming of practicing in Sharjah, UAE? Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, or allied health professional, obtaining a Sharjah Health Authority (SHA) license is your gateway to a rewarding career in this vibrant emirate. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the SHA licensing process step-by-step, sharing essential details and practical tips to make your journey seamless.
What is the SHA License?
The Sharjah Health Authority (SHA) regulates healthcare professionals in Sharjah, ensuring they meet stringent standards for safe and competent practice. An SHA license is mandatory to work in any healthcare facility in Sharjah, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized centers. Unlike the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) licensing process, which I’ve covered in another video, the SHA license is specific to Sharjah.
Step-by-Step SHA License Application Process
The SHA licensing process involves several stages: assessment, initial license, and final license. Below, I’ve outlined the requirements and steps for each phase.
1. Assessment for Healthcare Professional Licensing
This initial phase verifies your qualifications and eligibility to practice in Sharjah. You’ll need to submit the following documents:
- Academic Certificates: Degree/diploma, transcripts, and mark sheets from an accredited institution.
- Recent Work Experience Certificates: Typically, 2 years of post-qualification experience for nurses and allied health professionals; requirements vary by profession.
- Current License: A valid professional license from your home country or country of last practice.
- Exam Exemption Documents (if applicable): MOHAP evaluation, DHA eligibility letter, or DOH passing certificate for potential exam waivers.
- Certificate of Good Standing: Issued by the health authority in your country of practice, confirming your professional conduct.
- DataFlow PSV Report (if available): A Primary Source Verification report to authenticate your credentials.
- Valid Passport Copy: Ensure it’s up-to-date.
- Family Book: Required for UAE nationals.
- Recent Passport Photo: White background, professional quality.
- Emirates ID Copy (if applicable): For residents already in the UAE.
- BLS/CPR Training Certificate: Proof of Basic Life Support or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation training.
How to Apply:
- Log in to the SHA website or smart app using UAE PASS.
- Fill in the required details and upload your documents.
- Pay the evaluation and DataFlow verification fees.
- The assessment typically takes 5 working days. If approved, you’ll receive an evaluation certificate, valid for 5 years (provided there’s no practice interruption exceeding 2 years).
Sharjah Health Authority website link: https://sha.shj.ae/ar-ae
Note: Some professionals from Tier 1 countries (e.g., US, UK, Australia) with recognized qualifications may be exempt from exams if they meet specific criteria. Check the Unified Healthcare Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR) for details.
2. Initial License for Healthcare Professionals
Once you have the assessment certificate, you can apply for an initial license to start practicing under a healthcare facility in Sharjah. Required documents include:
- Assessment Certificate Copy: Issued by SHA.
- Healthcare Facility Initial Approval Letter: Obtained from the employing facility in Sharjah.
- Medical Malpractice Insurance: Proof of coverage, mandatory for all practitioners.
Process:
- Submit these documents through the SHA portal.
- The initial license allows you to begin working under supervision while completing further requirements.
3. Final License for Healthcare Professionals
The final license grants full authorization to practice independently. Additional documents required are:
- Medical Fitness Certificate: Mandatory for applicants over 60 years, obtainable at UAE visa medical centers.
- Valid Emirates ID Copy: Required for all applicants.
- Security Clearance Certificate: Verifies no legal impediments to practice.
Process:
- Submit the documents via the SHA portal.
- Upon approval, you’ll receive your professional license card, allowing you to practice in Sharjah’s healthcare facilities.
Tips for a Smooth Licensing Process
To ensure a hassle-free application, keep these tips in mind:
- Verify Documents Thoroughly: Double-check for errors or discrepancies in your certificates and translations (if required, documents must be in Arabic or English and legally certified).
- Prepare for Exams: If an exam is required (e.g., Prometric or oral assessment), use official study guides and schedule your test early. Prometric exams can be taken at international test centers, while oral exams may require a UAE visit.
- Monitor DataFlow Status: Incomplete or negative DataFlow reports can delay your application. Track your verification progress online using your reference number.
- Consider Professional Assistance: Licensed recruitment agencies, like Unihealth or GloboPrime, can streamline document preparation, DataFlow verification, and exam booking.
- Stay Updated: Check the SHA website (sha.shj.ae) or contact their support for the latest requirements, as regulations may evolve.
Contacting Sharjah Health Authority
For inquiries or assistance, reach out to SHA:
- Address: Sharjah Health Authority, Al Dhaid Road, Al Muzairah, Intersection No. 6, Sharjah, UAE.
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +971 65091666
Why Pursue an SHA License?
Sharjah is a growing healthcare hub with opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and Sharjah Healthcare City, which aims to provide world-class medical services. An SHA license not only allows you to practice in Sharjah but also enhances your career prospects in a competitive market. Plus, Sharjah’s cultural richness and proximity to Dubai make it an attractive destination for expatriates.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the SHA licensing process may seem daunting, but with proper preparation, it’s entirely achievable. By organizing your documents, understanding the requirements, and staying proactive, you’ll be well on your way to practicing in Sharjah. I hope this guide simplifies your journey and boosts your confidence!
For more nursing and healthcare tips, check out my video on the SHA licensing process on Nursing Manthra’s YouTube channel. If you found this blog helpful, share it with your colleagues, and let me know your questions or experiences in the comments below. Subscribe to Nursing Manthra for more career-focused content, and best of luck with your licensing journey!
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Shincy George
Nursing Manthra
