Doctors moving to Saudi Arabia, the UAE or Qatar usually need to pass a licensing exam set by the local health authority. These are computer-based exams taken at international test centres run by providers such as Prometric and Pearson VUE. This guide explains which authority you need, what the exams look like and how to prepare.

Which authority do you need?

  • Saudi Arabia – Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). Doctors are classified and licensed by the SCFHS, which may require a licensing exam depending on your qualifications and level.
  • Dubai – Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
  • Abu Dhabi – Department of Health (DOH).
  • Northern Emirates – Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
  • Qatar – Department of Healthcare Professions (QCHP).

Each authority sets its own rules, so check the official website of the authority where you will work before booking an exam.

What are the exams like?

  • Format: single-best-answer multiple-choice questions in English, usually taken in one sitting of a few hours.
  • Content: clinical knowledge in your specialty or at general practitioner level, with scenario-based questions on diagnosis, investigation and management.
  • Attempts: the number of attempts is limited, so prepare properly before your first try.
  • Exemptions: some postgraduate qualifications may allow you to skip the exam – for example certain specialist qualifications from the UK, US, Canada, Australia or New Zealand. Rules change, so confirm with the authority.

How to prepare

Allow 6–8 weeks: most candidates need several weeks of focused question practice.

Practise single-best-answer questions: the style rewards recognising classic presentations and choosing the most appropriate next step.

Cover the whole specialty: the exams are broad, so do not focus only on your current job.

Do timed blocks: pacing matters in a long computer-based exam.

Specialty question banks for Middle East licensing exams

License Medical offers question banks designed for Middle East licensing exams, including Gastroenterology, with practice questions and explanations written and reviewed by UK consultant physicians. Browse all our Prometric and Pearson VUE question banks.