Thinking of making the move? Understanding the compliance essentials isn't just recommended; it's crucial.
The allure of the UAE
Why the draw? Dr. Umair Janjua, Everlight's UAE Clinical Lead who relocated with his family in 2021, highlights the appeal: "It was a welcome change – good weather, good infrastructure... lots of things to see, lots of things to do with the family." He describes it as a place "where the East meets the West, where the North meets the South," offering a unique "culturally very diverse" environment, alongside "tax advantages" and excellent social and sporting facilities. He even mentions the unique ability to go "skiing in the mall and then ending up at the beach for the sunset" all in one day.
The compliance crux: More than just a visa
Here's where clarity is vital. While the lifestyle is appealing, practicing medicine in the UAE involves strict regulations. Daniel Sourial, Everlight's UKI / MEA Chief Executive Officer, explains the critical point: "The UAE is unique in the sense that it is rare to be able to live in the UAE without being employed by a UAE employer."
This means:
- Employment first: You generally need a job offer from a registered, licensed UAE entity.
- Work permit and residency visa: Your employer sponsors your Work Permit, which is typically linked to your Residency Visa (the right to live there).
- Local medical license: You must obtain a medical license from the relevant health authority for the Emirate you'll be based in (e.g., Dubai Health Authority - DHA, Department of Health - DOH in Abu Dhabi, Ministry of Health and Prevention - MOHAP).
- License activation: Crucially, this medical license must be activated by your employing, locally licensed healthcare facility.
Common misconceptions:
- Golden Visas: While a Golden Visa grants long-term residency, it does not grant the right to work as a doctor without the specific work permit and activated medical license tied to a compliant employer.
- Teleradiology: Even if you only report on scans for patients outside the UAE, if you are physically based in the UAE while doing so, you are practicing medicine within their jurisdiction and must comply with all local licensing requirements.
- Freelancing: UKII CEO Daniel Sourial is clear: "The concept of freelancing... doesn't really exist in the UAE" for regulated professions like medicine due to these interconnected requirements.
The risks are real
Attempting to bypass these steps can have severe consequences. Daniel warns of potential "fines... deportation... asset seizure... professional blacklisting... and inability to re-register," alongside issues with medical malpractice cover. The UAE has a "zero-tolerance approach" to working without proper authorization.
Choosing your partner wisely
Given the complexities, partnering with a transparent and compliant employer is essential. Look for a provider with a proven track record. As Dr. Janjua notes regarding Everlight, "A good provider... will walk you through licensing and employment steps... they'll sponsor your work permit... provide the malpractice insurance."
Everlight Radiology has invested heavily in understanding these regulations. "We've taken the path of least resistance and the most risk-averse path," says Daniel Sourial, ensuring Everlight and its radiologists "follow the law... to the letter" for "maximum compliance."
Beyond core compliance, Everlight's Global Mobility team provides extensive support. "We do support doctors... with step-by-step guides," says Sally Reynolds, "as well as... their personal setup... accommodation, banks, utilities... linking in with radiologists in your area." The aim is to "remove that pain out of it as much as possible."
The Takeaway
Relocating to the UAE as a radiologist offers incredible potential, but it demands adherence to a specific legal framework. While it might seem daunting, the process is very achievable with the right guidance and support from a compliant, experienced partner like Everlight Radiology.
Interested in learning more? Watch the full webinar recording here or contact the Everlight Radiology team at here.
