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If you are a foreign medical graduate considering a medical internship in the UAE, you are in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying, requirements, fees, and the benefits of completing an internship in Dubai.
Can Foreign Medical Graduates Do a Medical Internship in the UAE?
Yes, foreign medical graduates can pursue a medical internship in the UAE, even if they’ve completed their MBBS from countries like India, Georgia, Russia, Uzbekistan, or Kazakhstan. However, there are a few additional requirements you need to be aware of:
1. Residency Requirement: You must be a UAE resident with an Emirates ID. Residency is different from nationality, so keep this distinction in mind.
2. Paid Internship Program: The internship program in Dubai is chargeable, and the costs can be significant.
Also Check – What is DHA Exam?
Key Details About the UAE Medical Internship Program
Application Fee
The application fee for the internship program is approximately $200.
Program Fee
The total cost of the one-year internship program is around AED 30,000. After completing the program, there’s an additional certificate fee ranging from AED 200 to AED 400.
Where to Apply?
To apply for a medical internship in UAE, you will need to apply online for each emirate through their specific authorities. Such as;
- For Dubai visit DHA website.
- For Abu Dhabi Al Ain visit the HAAD website.
- For Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, UAQ and Ajaman visit MOH website.
Hospitals Offering Internship Placements
Internship placements in Dubai are available in various hospitals, including:
Al Jalila Hospital: Specializes in Pediatrics.
Latifa Women and Children Hospital: Focuses on Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Rashid Hospital: Known for Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine.
Dubai Hospital: Offers diverse medical specializations.
Application Timeline
Applications Open: May to June each year.
Intake: Starts in August.
Note: Seats are limited and priority is given to UAE Nationals. Admission also involves an interview process.
Documents Required
To complete your application, you will need the following documents:
1. Attested MBBS/Med School Degree Certificate: Proof of your medical degree.
2. Transcript Certificate: Includes your academic scores.
3. Passport Copy: Valid identification.
4. Emirates ID Copy: Proof of UAE residency.
5. Deposit Check of AED 5,000: Details will be clarified during the application process.
Benefits of Doing a Medical Internship in the UAE
Completing an internship in Dubai comes with several advantages:
Skip the Two-Year Work Experience Requirement:
Typically, obtaining a DHA license requires two years of work experience post-internship. However, completing your internship in Dubai allows you to apply for the DHA license immediately after passing the exam.
Direct Path to a GP License:
You can start working in Dubai as a General Practitioner (GP) without additional delays.
Challenges to Consider
No Stipend: Unlike many other countries, Dubai’s medical internship program does not offer a stipend.
High Costs: The fees for the program and living expenses can be significant, so financial planning is crucial.
Is a Medical Internship in the UAE Worth It?
If you are already a UAE resident or have family support in Dubai, this internship can be a great opportunity. It provides a direct pathway to obtaining a DHA license and working as a GP in the UAE. However, the program’s high cost and lack of stipend might be challenging for some.
Conclusion
To summarize, pursuing a medical internship in the UAE involves:
- Meeting residency requirements.
- Paying the program fees.
- Completing an internship in prestigious hospitals.
Enjoying the benefit of bypassing the two-year experience requirement for a DHA license.
If you are ready to take the next step, visit the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) website and start your application process. With the right preparation, a medical internship in Dubai can open doors to a promising career in the UAE.
I am working in Abu Dhabi, and my wife has completed her MBBS in China along with a one-year internship. Is it possible for her to attend exams like the DHA licensing exam in the UAE after completing a Medical Internship Program, even without two years of experience in her home country?
Experience is mandatory for working in UAE as a Doctor.
Im a belarus medical student.
I will be graduating on end of june 2025, usually the deadline for internship application is up to june right. Is it possible for me to apply with a promise letter from university?
Better to contact them. Can’t say anything.