If you’re looking to work or settle in Dubai, obtaining a DHA Medical Fitness Certificate is a fundamental requirement for securing or renewing your UAE residency visa. This certificate confirms that an individual is free from communicable diseases and ensures public health standards are maintained across the emirate. The process in 2025 has become more streamlined, thanks to digital advancements like the DHA Smart App and high-tech testing centres such as Smart Salem. While the physical medical tests must still be done in person, everything from booking your appointment to accessing your results can now be completed online.
This guide simplifies the procedure, outlines the required documents and medical checks, and walks you through each step of the application process. We also provide a detailed list of the examination locations in Dubai. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a domestic worker, or a new resident in Dubai, understanding this process is key to a smooth and successful start to your life in the UAE.
Purpose of the DHA Medical Fitness Certificate
As of 2025, the DHA continues to require thorough checks for communicable diseases (HIV, TB, leprosy, hepatitis, syphilis) for certain job categories to maintain high public health standards. The assessment ensures that new and renewing residents are medically fit to reside in Dubai.
Who Requires the Certificate?
You’ll need this certificate if you’re an expat aged 18 or older seeking to live and work in the UAE. This includes both first-time residency applicants and those renewing their visas. If you change jobs or sponsors, you’ll typically need a new medical fitness certificate. Some updates now apply to individuals with certain conditions like tuberculosis or syphilis; these are no longer an automatic fail in all cases, but treatment protocols must be followed.
Types of Medical Fitness Tests
The medical fitness test includes:
- A general medical exam.
- Blood tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and syphilis (where applicable).
- Chest X-ray for pulmonary tuberculosis.
- Leprosy screening.
Additional Requirements by Profession
Domestic Workers and High-Risk Professions:
- Mandatory Hepatitis B vaccination (three-dose series).
- Mandatory syphilis screening; positive results must be treated before certificate issuance.
- Pregnancy test mandatory for female domestic workers. Positive results require written consent from the sponsor for visa approval.
Healthcare Professionals:
- Healthcare professionals include doctors, nurses, lab technicians, pharmacists, and others directly involved in patient care or medical services. This category does not include food handlers or beauty salon workers unless they are directly involved in medical or patient care.
- Must activate DHA professional registration (licence) within one year of passing the medical fitness test.
- Required tests: HIV, Tuberculosis, Leprosy, Hepatitis (B & C), Syphilis.
- Note: The DHA professional registration involves an additional fee of approximately AED 200, plus separate licensing and verification costs, unrelated to the medical fitness certificate fees.
Online Application Process
As of 2025, the DHA strongly encourages applicants to use the DHA Smart App or e-services portal for their medical fitness certificate applications. Through these platforms, you can schedule your appointment, pay fees online, and track your application status in real time. However, if you prefer in-person assistance, you can still visit a certified typing centre. Follow the seven steps below to apply for the medical examination:
1. Download the App or Visit the Portal
Use the DHA Smart App or the DHA website.
2. Register or Log In
Use your Emirates ID or UAE Pass.
3. Schedule Your Appointment
Choose your preferred test centre and time.
4. Pay Fees Online
Pay based on service category (Standard, Express, or VIP). Most centres now accept digital or contactless payments, and cash payments are typically not accepted, so it’s advisable to confirm payment methods in advance.
5. Undergo Medical Tests
Attend the selected medical fitness centre with the original copy of your documents.
6. Check Results
Most results are available within 24 hours.
- Salem Centre results: Within 30 minutes.
- Express results: ~6 hours.
- VIP results: ~2 hours.
7. Download Certificate
Once available, download your fitness certificate from the app, or you can check your results via the DHA’s official website by visiting the DHA Medical Fitness Status page. Click on “Start Service.” Enter your application number, passport number, and date of birth. Submit the information to view your application status.
Documents Needed for the Application
- Original passport.
- Emirates ID (if available).
- Recent passport-size photo.
- Entry permit or residence visa copy.
- Status change receipt (if applicable).
It’s important to note that while documents can be uploaded digitally to book the appointment, applicants are still required to present original documents during their in-person medical examination.
Interpreting the Medical Fitness Certificate
Your certificate will show identification details, test results, and your fitness status.
- HIV-positive results: disqualified.
- Active TB or leprosy: disqualified (unless special exemption is granted).
- Syphilis: treated cases may still be approved.
Please note: The certificate is only valid for 90 days from the time of issue.
DHA Medical Fitness Test Costs
| Service Type | Cost | Result Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Service | AED 250 | ~24 hours |
| Express Service | AED 700 | ~6 hours |
| VIP Service | AED 1,020 | ~2 hours |
| Smart Salem Centres | AED 700 | ~30 minutes |
| Pregnancy Test (Only required for female domestic workers) | AED 50 | Conducted alongside other tests |
Payments can be made online or at typing centres. Most centres prefer card or contactless payments. Smart Salem Centres generally offer premium services with faster results at a comparable cost to the Express service at regular centres.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
- For result delays over 3–5 working days: contact the centre or call 800-DHA (342).
- Technical support: Use DHA Smart App chat or email support.
- Certificate download issues: Request an email copy via support if needed.
DHA Medical Fitness Test Centres in Dubai
Dubai boasts 21 DHA medical fitness centres, including three premium Smart Salem Centres. These centres are strategically located across the emirate to provide convenient access for residents.
Smart Salem Centres offer a state-of-the-art, fully digital, and paperless experience, utilising advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics to ensure efficient and accurate medical screenings. Test results are delivered within 30 minutes, significantly faster than the standard 24-hour turnaround. Please note that services at Smart Salem Centres may be priced higher than those at standard DHA centres.
For a comprehensive list of all medical fitness centres, visit the official Dubai Health website or refer to the detailed list below, which provides each centre’s location, opening hours, contact numbers, and additional useful information.
1. Smart Salem Centre – City Walk
Location: City Walk, Al Riyada Street, Dubai, next to Valiant Clinic.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–11:30 AM & 4:00 PM–8:00 PM; Sunday: 7:30 AM–2:30 PM.
Contact: +971 4 220 0212.
2. Smart Salem Centre – Index Tower
Location: Index Tower, Dubai International Financial Centre.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–11:30 AM & 4:00 PM–8:00 PM; Sunday: 7:30 AM–2:30 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
3. Smart Salem Centre – Dubai Knowledge Park
Location: Dubai Knowledge Park.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–11:30 AM & 4:00 PM–8:00 PM; Sunday: 7:30 AM–2:30 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
4. Al Lusaily Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Al Lusaily Health Centre, Dubai-Al Ain Road.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–3:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM.
Contact: +971 4 502 2519.
5. Al Muhaisnah Follow-Up Centre
Location: Al Muhaisnah 2, Amman Street, Exit 63, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–3:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 3:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Contact: +971 4 502 3939.
6. Al Rashidiya Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Al Rashidiya, near the Police Station.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM.
Contact: +971 4 502 2300.
7. Zaabeel Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Za’abeel 2, near Club Roundabout.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–10:00 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
8. Bur Dubai Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Central Mall, next to Sharaf DG Metro Station (Exit 4), Old Musalla Tower, Bur Dubai.
Timings: Sunday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–2:30 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
9. Al Garhoud Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Al Garhoud, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:00 AM–11:30 AM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
10. Karama Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Al Karama, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
11. Al Nahda Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Al Nahda, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
12. Al Yalayis Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Dubai Investments Park.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 3:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
13. Al Quoz Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Al Quoz, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
14. DIFC Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Dubai International Financial Centre.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
15. DAFZA Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Dubai Airport Freezone Authority.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
16. Emirates Medical Fitness Centre (DHCC)
Location: Dubai Healthcare City.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
17. Jebel Ali Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Jebel Ali, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
18. Salem Al Muhaisnah Centre
Location: Al Muhaisnah, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
19. AXS Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
20. Emirates Airline Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Emirates Group Headquarters, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday: 7:30 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–7:30 PM; Saturday: 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Contact: +971 800 60.
21. Uptown Mirdiff Medical Fitness Centre
Location: Uptown Mirdiff, Dubai.
Timings: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Contact: +971 56 233 1466.
Book Your DHA Medical Fitness Test Today
In 2025, applying for your DHA Medical Fitness Certificate is faster and easier than ever. While you must still attend a test centre for your examination, the entire process—from booking to results—can now be streamlined through the DHA Smart App or portal.
Completing this process is mandatory in securing your UAE residency visa, especially for new expats arriving in Dubai. With the latest technology, updated test protocols, and efficient turnaround times, you can start your new chapter in the UAE with confidence and ease.
Here’s to good health and your exciting new chapter!
FAQs
Can I Reschedule My Medical Fitness Appointment?
Yes, you can reschedule through the DHA Smart App or DHA e-services portal. It’s best to reschedule at least 24 hours in advance to avoid additional fees.
What Should I Do If My Medical Fitness Certificate Has Errors or Incorrect Details?
Contact DHA customer support immediately at 800-DHA (342) or through the DHA Smart App chat. Corrections are typically processed quickly once reported.
Can Someone Else Pick Up My Medical Fitness Certificate on My Behalf?
Yes, provided they carry a signed authorisation letter from you, along with a copy of your Emirates ID or passport, and their original Emirates ID.
Are Children Required to Have a Medical Fitness Certificate for Residency in Dubai?
No, the medical fitness certificate is required only for individuals aged 18 and older.
How Can I Verify the Authenticity of My DHA Medical Fitness Certificate?
You can verify your DHA Medical Fitness Certificate through the DHA Smart App or the official DHA website. Enter your certificate number or personal details to confirm its authenticity.
Is There a Dress Code I Should Follow for the Medical Examination?
There’s no official dress code, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove for blood tests and X-rays. Women may prefer to wear modest, easily adjustable clothing.
What Languages are Supported at DHA Medical Centres?
DHA medical fitness centres generally provide services in multiple languages, including Arabic, English, Hindi, and Urdu. If language is a concern, contacting your chosen centre in advance to confirm language support is advisable.
If I Fail the Medical Fitness Test, Can I Appeal the Decision?
Yes, you can appeal if you believe there’s an error or misunderstanding. Appeals should be lodged directly with DHA by contacting 800-DHA (342) or visiting the medical centre where the test was conducted.
Are There Facilities for People of Determination at DHA Medical Centres?
Yes, DHA medical fitness centres, especially the Smart Salem Centres, have facilities designed to accommodate people of determination. It’s recommended to contact your chosen centre ahead of time to confirm specific accessibility features.
Do I Need a Separate Medical Fitness Certificate if I Move From Another Emirate to Dubai?
Yes, you typically need a separate DHA Medical Fitness Certificate specific to Dubai, even if you have a valid medical fitness certificate from another emirate.
What if My Passport is About to Expire—Can I Still Get a DHA Medical Fitness Certificate?
Your passport must typically have at least six months’ validity remaining to be accepted for the DHA medical fitness test. It’s advisable to renew your passport first if it’s close to expiry.
