Why DHA Applications Get Rejected: 10 Common Pitfalls and How to Fix Them
Applying for a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) license can be straightforward — but only if every detail is correct.
Each year, many doctors, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals face application rejection or long delays due to avoidable mistakes.
This guide explains the most common reasons DHA applications are rejected and, more importantly, how to fix or avoid them before they cost you time, money, and opportunities.
Why DHA Application Rejections Happen
The Dubai Health Authority applies strict regulatory and verification standards to protect patient safety and maintain professional quality.
Even small inconsistencies can result in:
- Application rejection
- Requests for resubmission
- Delays lasting several months
Understanding these issues early helps you prepare a compliant, complete, and successful DHA application.
1. Inconsistent Experience Letters
One of the most common causes of DHA rejection is mismatched employment information.
Common issues include:
- Overlapping employment dates
- Missing start or end dates
- Job titles that don’t match DHA professional classifications
How to fix it
Ensure all experience letters:
- Are on official letterhead
- Clearly state employment dates
- Match your CV exactly
- Are signed and stamped
2. Unrecognised Qualifications or Institutions
Not all degrees, diplomas, or training institutions meet DHA eligibility criteria.
How to fix it
Before applying, verify that:
- Your qualification is recognised
- Your institution appears in DHA-accepted databases
An early eligibility assessment can prevent automatic rejection.
3. DataFlow Verification Failures
DHA uses DataFlow for primary source verification. Applications fail when:
- Incorrect employer or university contact details are provided
- Institutions do not respond
- Documents cannot be verified
How to fix it
Submit accurate, up-to-date contact information and ensure institutions are reachable and responsive.
4. Incorrect Professional Classification
Applying under the wrong category — such as Specialist instead of General Practitioner — can lead to rejection.
How to fix it
Confirm your correct DHA title based on:
- Qualifications
- Clinical experience
- Scope of practice
Professional classification should always align with DHA standards.
5. Missing or Invalid Good Standing Certificate
A Good Standing Certificate (GSC) is mandatory and must be:
- Recently issued
- From a recognised authority
- Properly signed and stamped
Expired or incomplete certificates will stop your application.
6. Incomplete or Poor-Quality Documentation
Missing pages, unclear scans, or unsigned documents often cause applications to stall or fail.
How to fix it
Before submission:
- Double-check all documents
- Ensure scans are clear and complete
- Confirm signatures and stamps are visible
7. Exam Eligibility Misunderstandings
Some applicants assume they are exempt from DHA exams when they are not.
How to fix it
Confirm exam requirements early based on:
- Profession
- Country of qualification
- Years of experience
Incorrect assumptions can result in delays or rejection.
8. Unexplained Employment Gaps
Gaps in clinical practice without explanation raise red flags during evaluation.
How to fix it
Provide clear explanations for:
- Career breaks
- Further education
- Personal or medical reasons
Transparency is essential.
9. Invalid License Status in Home Country
Your professional license must be:
- Active
- Valid
- Free from suspension or disciplinary issues
Expired or inactive licenses often lead to rejection.
10. Submitting Without Professional Review
Many applicants apply independently without understanding DHA evaluation criteria, increasing the risk of errors.
How to fix it
A professional review can:
- Identify risks early
- Ensure document alignment
- Improve approval timelines
Conclusion
Most DHA application rejections are entirely preventable.
With proper planning, accurate documentation, and expert review, healthcare professionals can significantly improve their chances of approval.
CareBridge supports healthcare professionals at every stage — from eligibility assessment to final submission — helping you apply with confidence and clarity.