The UAE is witnessing rapid growth in its healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. The pharmaceutical market in the UAE is projected to reach a valuation of over $4.7 billion by 2025, which is more than triple its size in 2011. From 2021 to 2025, the market is expected to experience a significant growth rate of 27%. These remarkable projections make now the perfect time to acquire a pharmacist license in Dubai.
Pharmacies are a common sight across Dubai’s residential and commercial areas. However, they are not merely medicine shops; pharmacies in the UAE offer a wide range of products and services, including medical consultations, health check-ups, lifestyle products, supplements, and much more. Therefore, opening a pharmacy in Dubai is a lucrative and versatile business idea.
If you’re considering venturing into this thriving industry, understanding how to get a pharmacist license in Dubai is crucial. Aristotle Consultancy is here to guide you through every step of the process.
The Growing Demand for Pharmacies in Dubai
Dubai is on its way to developing a globally integrated healthcare system that stands as a benchmark for other cities. The Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA), the official government healthcare regulatory body, is playing a key role in shaping this vision. Consequently, Dubai’s medical, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors fall under the DHA’s direct jurisdiction.
The DHA establishes pharmaceutical standards, implements healthcare policies, sets regulations, and issues licenses for healthcare businesses in Dubai. Individuals, government entities, corporations, partnerships, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), or any other business entities can legally start their pharmacy business in Dubai after obtaining an official permit from the DHA.
Read Also :- How to Start a Software Company in Dubai
Understanding the Pharmacist License in Dubai
To open a pharmacy business in Dubai, the first step is to obtain a trade license. The Dubai Health Authority is the governing body responsible for issuing the pharmacist license, which enables individuals or companies to manufacture and sell pharmaceutical products in the UAE.
Under UAE Federal Law No. 4 of 1993, a pharmacist license allows individuals or companies to start manufacturing, buying, and selling pharmaceutical products in the country. The license covers the sale of medical products in retail stores located in residential areas, housing complexes, and private stores registered in the UAE.
A pharmacist license in Dubai isn’t limited to just selling medicines. Pharmacies can also offer a wide array of products such as healthcare essentials, lifestyle products, wellness products, and supplements. The license also allows businesses to provide medical consultations and health-related services.
Steps to Obtain a Pharmacist License in Dubai
Acquiring a pharmacist license in Dubai involves a two-step registration process: Initial approval and final approval. Each step has its own set of requirements.
Initial Approval Process
The first step is to submit an application to the Health Regulation Department (HRD) for a new health facility. The application should include the details of the location, such as the plot number and blueprint (Schematic Design). These documents should provide a general cross-section of the pharmacy’s building structure.
Once submitted, the HRD will conduct an in-depth review of your application. If the documents meet HRD regulations, the application will receive initial approval. If the application is rejected, you will be provided with a list of deficiencies to correct and resubmit. The initial approval is mandatory to move forward in the licensing process. After receiving the letter of approval, you will need to submit it to the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland applications, or the relevant authority for free zone applications.
Final Approval Process
After receiving initial approval, the next step is to submit an online request for a final inspection by the Health Regulation Department. The DHA will issue the pharmacist license after confirming that all recommendations and requirements have been met.
Read Also :- How to Start a Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai
Key Requirements for a Pharmacy License in Dubai
Due to the nature of the business, obtaining a pharmacy license in Dubai has specific requirements. First, your pharmacy must employ a qualified pharmacist-in-charge who meets the DHA’s minimum qualification standards. Additionally, you must hire a sufficient number of licensed pharmacists and pharmaceutical technicians.
It is mandatory to display the DHA license of the pharmacy in a visible location within the store. The pharmacy must also clearly display its operational hours for customer convenience. The minimum required area for a pharmacy in Dubai is 30 square meters.
If you plan to operate a pharmacy in Dubai mainland, you will need a UAE local sponsor in addition to your DHA license to start your business.
Benefits of Partnering with Aristotle Consultancy
The pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors in Dubai are governed by strict regulations. Any business looking to start a pharmacy must comply with all laws and regulations set by the DHA and the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. You will need the correct licenses and permits to legally operate in Dubai.
Aristotle Consultancy is your reliable partner for all your company formation needs in Dubai. We offer comprehensive services, including local sponsorship, government liaison, pharmacy license renewal, PRO services, and much more. Our expert team is here to ensure that your business setup process is smooth and efficient.
Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you get your pharmacist license in Dubai:
Phone: +91 9958605588
WhatsApp: +91 9958605588
Email: info@aristotleconsultancy.com
Let Aristotle Consultancy take care of your business formation, so you can focus on your success!
Read more related blogs:
Step By Step Guide to Start a Business in Dubai, UAE
Cost of Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai
