Relocating to UAE as an SLP? Here’s what you need to know! (Dubai)

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the profession of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) is regulated, and foreign-trained Speech-Language Pathologists must obtain licensure to practice. The licensing process varies depending on the emirate, with primary regulatory bodies being the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for Dubai and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH) for Abu Dhabi.

Regulatory Bodies:

• Dubai: Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
• Abu Dhabi: Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH)

General Requirements for Foreign-Trained SLPs:

1. Educational Qualifications:
   • A Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Speech Therapy from an accredited institution.
2. Professional Experience:
   • A minimum of one year of work experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
3. Professional License:
   • A current license or registration to practice as an SLP in your home country or country of last employment.
4. Certificate of Good Standing:
   • Issued within the last six months by the relevant licensing authority or professional body where you currently practice.
5. English Proficiency:
   • If your education was not conducted in English, you are required to demonstrate proficiency through tests such as:
     • TOEFL: Minimum score of 500
     • IELTS: Minimum band of 5.0
     • Occupational English Test (OET): Minimum grade of C
     • Cambridge Assessment English: Minimum score of 169
6. Licensing Examination:
   • Depending on the emirate, you may be required to pass a licensing examination.

Licensing Process:

1. Application Submission:
   • Create an account on the respective health authority’s online portal (DHA for Dubai, DOH for Abu Dhabi).
   • Submit the required documents, including educational certificates, proof of experience, professional license, certificate of good standing, and proof of English proficiency.
2. Primary Source Verification (Dataflow):
   • Undergo a verification process where your credentials are authenticated.
3. Licensing Examination:
   • If applicable, schedule and pass the licensing exam.
4. Final Approval and Registration:
   • Upon successful completion of the above steps, you will receive your license to practice as an SLP in the respective emirate.

Additional Considerations:

• Language Requirements:
  • While Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English is widely used, especially in healthcare settings. Proficiency in Arabic is not typically a licensing requirement but may be preferred by some employers.
• Continuous Professional Development (CPD):
  • Licensed SLPs are required to engage in ongoing CPD activities to maintain their licensure. For example, in Dubai, practitioners must accrue a certain number of CPD points annually.
• Processing Time:
  • The licensing process can be time-consuming, often taking several months. It’s advisable to begin the application process well in advance of your intended start date.

For comprehensive and up-to-date information, consult the official websites of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH). Additionally, the Emirates Speech Language Pathology Society (ESLPS) can provide valuable resources and support for professionals seeking to practice in the UAE.

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