🦷 UAE MOH Dental License: The Ultimate Guide for 2025
Securing a UAE MOH dental license allows you to practice in the Northern Emirates — Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. Whether you’re an international graduate or a UAE-trained dentist, understanding the exam process is vital. Here’s your definitive guide.
1. Who Needs the MOH License?
The MOH license is essential for dentists working in the Northern Emirates. Dubai and Abu Dhabi follow separate authorities (DHA and DOH).
- A BDS/DDS degree
- 1–2 years of clinical experience post-internship
- Primary Source Verification (DataFlow) to verify credentials
2. MOH Exam Format & Syllabus
- Format: 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), 2 hours
- Passing Mark: 60%
- Weightage:
- Operative, Endodontics, Pedodontics, Prosthodontics – 15% each
- Periodontics, Oral Surgery – 10% each
- Remaining topics: Oral Medicine, Radiology, Orthodontics, Basic Sciences
This test emphasizes clinical decision-making and UAE regulations.
3. 🧠 High-Yield Topics to Prioritize
- Operative dentistry: cavity preparation, adhesive systems
- Endodontics & oral surgery: protocols, local anesthesia
- Periodontics & pediatric dentistry
- Infection control, medical emergencies, UAE ethics
4. 📝 Effective Study Strategies
- a. Make a Study Schedule: Divide time by topic and practice MCQs daily.
Register here - b. Focus on Quality & Recall: Use active recall and spaced repetition.
- c. Take Mock Exams: Simulate real conditions with 2–3 full-length tests.
- d. Analyze Your Mistakes: Review and understand every incorrect answer.
5. 🧪 Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Underestimating the exam’s difficulty
- Ignoring the syllabus structure
- Poor time management
- Using outdated materials
- Neglecting infection control and ethics
- Skipping mock exams
Stay on track with updated materials and a disciplined study routine.
6. 📋 Application & Testing Process
- DataFlow verification of your credentials
- Register via the MOH portal
- Pay the exam fee (~AED 600–700)
- Sit for the Prometric exam (centers in UAE, India, etc.)
- Results within 24 hours; receive a 5-year Eligibility Letter if successful
Note: You get 3 attempts; after 3 failures, a 1-year wait applies.
7. 💼 After the Exam
- Apply for full MOH license with your Eligibility Letter
- License valid for 5 years
- Renew with CME credits
8. Why It’s Worth It
- Eligibility to practice in 5 Emirates
- Tax-free income
- Respected and recognized license
- Focus on clinical excellence
🔑 Final Takeaway
The MOH Dental Licensing Exam demands clinical proficiency, UAE-specific knowledge, strategic study techniques, and disciplined preparation. By targeting high-yield topics, taking mock exams, and using updated study materials, you’ll be well-positioned for success — and a rewarding dental career in the UAE.
