United Arab Emirates

Build your nursing career in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is one of the most dynamic and rewarding destinations for nurses seeking career growth alongside an exceptional quality of life. From the gleaming skyline of Dubai to the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi, the UAE offers a working environment where professional development and personal fulfilment genuinely go hand in hand. With a tax-free income, world-class facilities, and one of the most diverse expat communities on the planet, this could be the move that changes everything.


Benefits

Whether you're drawn by the financial benefits, the opportunity to work alongside professionals from across the globe, or simply the chance to experience life in a genuinely extraordinary part of the world — the UAE delivers on all fronts.

  • Tax-free income
  • Free furnished accommodation
  • Free flights
  • Medical coverage
  • Generous annual leaves
  • International colleagues

Beyond the package, working in the UAE gives you genuine career mobility. Roles span a federation of seven distinct emirates — from the commercial energy of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the quieter pace of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah — each with its own character and opportunities.


Explore — things to do on your days off

The UAE is far more than Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Each of the seven emirates has its own personality. Here are some of the best experiences to explore when you're not on shift.


Dubai city highlights

From the Burj Khalifa and the historic Al Fahidi district to the Spice Souk and desert safaris — Dubai packs an extraordinary range of experiences into one destination.


Hatta mountain escape

Just 1.5 hours from Dubai, Hatta offers kayaking on the dam, mountain biking trails, a restored Heritage Village, and camping under the Hajar Mountain stars.


Abu Dhabi culture & leisure

Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island's theme parks — a city balancing deep-rooted Emirati heritage with bold modern ambition.


Fujairah diving & east coast

The UAE's only eastern emirate sits on the Gulf of Oman, with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and marine life including rays, turtles, and whale sharks.


Ras Al Khaimah adventures

Home to the world's longest zipline on Jebel Jais at 2.83 km, plus mountain hikes, beach resorts, and some of the UAE's most affordable luxury stays.


Sharjah arts & culture

Named Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO, Sharjah is 20 minutes from Dubai — home to the Islamic Civilisation Museum, the Blue Souk, and the Sharjah Art Biennial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of license do I need to work as a nurse/midwife or Allied Healthcare Professional in United Arab Emirates?

You must first register with one of the following three major health care providers: Ministry of Health, Health Authority – Abu Dhabi, or Dubai Health Authority. The process is complex. CCM Recruitment will work with you throughout the process

Is English spoken in the hospitals?

English is the working language in the hospitals. Translators, and ward clerks who act as translators, are always available to assist in communicating with patients who do not speak English. Healthcare staff quickly picks up basic Arabic phrases related to their jobs.

Where will I live?

You will live in hospital-provided accommodation or you can use a housing allowance to rent/lease locally.

What is the social life like?

The social life is what you make it. Recreational activities include: shopping festivals; boat cruises; desert safaris; horse/camel racing; golf; sand-boarding; etc

Can women drive in the UAE?

Yes. Women are allowed to drive in the UAE when in the UAE on a Residency permit. They first need to obtain a UAE driver’s license. When in the UAE on a visit visa, they can drive on an international driving permit.

What is available in the UAE?

Pretty much everything!

Alcohol – although the UAE is a Muslim country, purchasing and drinking alcohol in a licensed club, bar, or restaurant is legal for non-Muslims who are over 21. To buy alcohol for home consumption one must have a personal liquor license, which can only be obtained once the person has residency status, which can take 4-8 weeks. The cost is approximately 105 Dh (approximately $30US). (Obviously, while drinking is permitted as described, being drunk and/or disorderly in public is not permitted!)

Clothing – “regular” clothing, and high-end designer clothing and sportswear is easy to find.
Bathing Suits – these are easier to find in the UAE than in Saudi Arabia, but you will want to bring at least one with you.

Electronics – electronic stores abound, selling the latest in computers, audio, and video equipment. Videos and DVDs are also available, but these may have been censored.

Jewellery – jewellery shopping in the gold souqs is very popular for expatriates (and locals) and rarely does an expat leave without a sizable gold collection.

English-Language Books – English reading material can be found at book stores and grocery stores.

What is the food like?

The UAE has a wide variety of restaurants, allowing expatriates to go on a culinary world tour, sampling Arabic, Italian, French, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Filipino, Mexican, Turkish, Indian, Pakistani, etc. cuisine. Supermarkets provide all sorts of food which you are accustomed to buying at home. Fruit and vegetable souqs (markets) provide excellent fresh produce, although fresh produce is also readily available at supermarkets.

What does "tax-free income" mean?

No income tax is deducted in the UAE, and there is no sales tax.

Can I use my credit card in the UAE?

Yes. Major credit cards (e.g. VISA, American Express) are used throughout the UAE, but not all shops accept them.

Can I use my ATM card in the UAE?

Yes. ATM machines accept cards from all over the world via systems like Cirrus and Plus. You can also get an ATM card for your local account.

How many years' experiences do I need?

You need 2 years hospital experience in the specialty you are applying for.

Useful Links

From licensing requirements to the best spots to spend your days off, these handpicked resources will help you get a real feel for life and work in the UAE.


Visit Dubai — official tourism portal

The official guide to Dubai's best experiences — landmarks, neighbourhoods, events, dining, and practical travel tips.


Visit Abu Dhabi — official tourism portal

Explore Abu Dhabi's cultural calendar, natural landscapes, and family-friendly attractions — ideal for nurses based in the capital.


Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD)

Official registration and licensing requirements for nurses working in Abu Dhabi, including exam guidance and application steps.


Dubai Health Authority (DHA)

Everything you need to know about nursing registration and licensing in Dubai — eligibility, process, and requirements for international nurses.


InterNations — UAE expat community

Join one of the world's most active expat networks; honest relocation advice, community meetups, and settling-in support.


Numbeo — cost of living in the UAE

Compare everyday costs across Dubai and Abu Dhabi; accommodation, transport, groceries, and dining — before you make your move.