How are clinics in Dubai Healthcare City licensed in 2026?

Through DHA, with the City authority's own permit beside it. Since Law No. 16 of 2024, healthcare activity in Dubai Healthcare City needs DHA's licences and permits, and the Dubai Healthcare City Authority, often called DHCR, issues the commercial licence and a Clinical Operating Permit.

What changed

Law No. 16 of 2024 Concerning the Dubai Healthcare City says no healthcare activity may take place in the City without the licences and permits of DHA, in addition to the City authority's approvals, and puts licensing under the legislation that applies to DHA.¹ The City authority says all healthcare professional licensing in Dubai Healthcare City is managed by DHA.² Its Rule No. 1 of 2025 requires every licensed facility to obtain a Clinical Operating Permit before it starts operating.³

1. Commercial licence. From the Dubai Healthcare City Authority.
2. DHA facility licence. Initial approval and activation, as anywhere in Dubai.
3. DHA professional licences. For every clinician.
4. Clinical Operating Permit. From the City authority, before operating.

1. Commercial licence ______ Expires ______
2. DHA facility licence ______ Expires ______
3. Clinical Operating Permit ______ Expires ______
4. Professional licences checked on ______

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Questions

Is DHCR still a separate licensing regime?

No, since Law No. 16 of 2024, DHA licenses healthcare activity in the City, and the City authority issues its commercial licence and Clinical Operating Permit.

Who licenses clinicians in the City?

DHA.

Does the City still have its own guides?

Yes, such as its Clinical Program Guide. Check which apply to your facility with the City authority.

Sources

1. 1Dubai Legal Portal, 2024Law No. (16) of 2024 Concerning the Dubai Healthcare CityRead source
2. 2Dubai Healthcare City Authority, 2026Professional licence servicesRead source
3. 3Dubai Healthcare City Authority, 2025Rule No. 1 of 2025, Clinical Operating PermitRead source

Written by the wai team from Dubai Health Authority guidance, checked on 15 October 2026. This is guidance, not legal advice. DHA does not endorse wai or any software.