Foreign qualifications are not enough: check the local licence and its scope

Regulated professions have requirements beyond immigration and employment status. Check the full name, licence number, validity and professional title with the responsible regulator. A general business licence or a photograph of a qualification does not replace the specialist authorisation required for the service.

For healthcare regulated by Dubai Health Authority, Sheryan and the Dubai Medical Registry provide verification routes. Initial registration or an eligibility letter is different from an activated licence to practise; the authorised specialty and practice facility also matter. For other UAE regulatory areas, consult the relevant health authority.

For legal services, distinguish advice and contract drafting from rights of audience before the relevant court. Within Dubai’s applicable framework, the Legal Affairs Department’s official directory identifies registered professionals and firms. A listing does not itself authorise appearances in every UAE court or endorse an advertised specialism.

Before entrusting a matter or starting a service, record who will perform each task and who will handle any court appearance or additional regulated work if required. If the licence information differs from the advertisement or agreement, obtain clarification from the regulator before proceeding.