A healthy diet is key to a healthy life. Thanks to social media trends, the importance of a healthy lifestyle is now widely recognized. The demand for nutritionists and dietitians is growing, as people are seeking more guidance on healthy food intake to reduce the risk of diseases or manage existing conditions. Practicing as a nutritionist is not only a high-demand career but also a lucrative one. Known for its focus on health and wellness as part of its culture and environment, pursuing a career as a nutritionist in Dubai can be an excellent choice.
There are numerous nutritionists already established in Dubai who are helping people lead healthier lives. You can join them and build a successful career in this thriving city. We will provide you with all the necessary information you need to become a successful nutritionist in Dubai, including the licenses and approvals required.
Working as a nutritionist in Dubai:
Dietitians and nutritionists are health professionals who assess, plan and implement diet programs to help their patients achieve a healthy diet and receive the right nutrition. They specialize in food and diet, assisting individuals in maintaining good health, preventing illness, or managing existing health conditions. However, working as a nutritionist is not everyone’s cup of tea. You need to possess the right qualifications and skills and must demonstrate empathy for your patients to work efficiently.
Dubai has been witnessing a rising awareness among its residents toward healthier life choices. The government has also been promoting and supporting various health initiatives, which displays the city’s commitment to becoming a healthy city.
Working as a nutritionist in Dubai unlocks numerous opportunities. You may choose to operate independently or affiliate with healthcare facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, fitness clubs, and more. In addition, Dubai offers unmatched benefits, such as developed business communities, government incentives, ease of business setup, and tax benefits. Dubai also hosts some specialized free zones that facilitate health and related activities, where you will find cutting-edge infrastructure and technology that can help you grow tremendously in your nutritionist profession.
Where can you get a nutritionist license in Dubai, UAE:
When it comes to practicing as a nutritionist in Dubai, you have two major location choices. You can get your license in a free zone or on the mainland.
1. Freezone:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC): You can choose to practice as a nutritionist or start your own clinic in DMCC, Dubai’s one of the leading free zones. The setup process is very straightforward.
- Dubai Healthcare City (DHC): This free zone is the most popular choice for health-related pursuits. It has a well-developed community of medical professionals, hospitals, and other facilities and is recognized nationally and internationally.
2. Mainland:
Alternatively, you can choose to operate as a dietitian on the mainland in Dubai. The regulating body here is the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Your choice of location will depend on your business requirements, preferences and services you offer.
Requirements for practicing as nutritionist in Dubai:
To get a nutritionist license in Dubai, you must fulfil the following eligibility criteria:
1. Professional qualification:
You need at least a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, or a related health science field from an accredited institution. The degree program must include a concentration in dietetics and nutrition, human nutrition, nutrition education, or public health nutrition. You will need to submit your academic certificates and transcripts to verify your educational qualifications.
2. Clinical work experience:
You must have at least two years of work experience as a nutritionist in Dubai.
3. Professional license:
You must hold a current license or registration to practice as a nutritionist in Dubai which must be issued by the relevant authority in the country where you were recently employed.
4. Experience letters:
You must provide a letter of experience (LOE), and it must be an official document, signed and stamped by an authorized representative of your employer.
5. English proficiency:
You may need to submit proof of English proficiency. It can be a TOEFL with a minimum score of 500, IELTS with a minimum band of 5.0, Occupational English Test (OET) with a minimum grade of C or equivalent, or Cambridge Assessment English with a minimum score of 169 on the scoring scale.
6. Certificate of good standing:
You will need to submit a certificate of good standing issued within the last six months from the jurisdiction (licensing authority/professional membership body) where you currently hold a license or registration to practice.
7. Licensing exam:
You must pass the examination, which you must apply for and register for online to verify your competency.
8. Police clearance:
You may be asked to submit a clearance certificate from the police of the country where you practiced or trained recently.
Steps for establishing a nutritionist business in Dubai:
To practice as a nutritionist in Dubai, you have the option to set up a clinic, work as a freelance nutritionist, or you can even work in medical and healthcare centres. If you decide to set up your clinic, the process can be a bit complex, and you will need to navigate through the entire process of company formation in Dubai. Here are the steps for setting up a nutritionist clinic in Dubai:
Step 1 – Select your activity:
First, you will need to review the approved list of activities provided by the Department of Economic Development (DED) to ensure that the services you plan to offer as a nutritionist are included.
Step 2 – Select your jurisdiction:
You can choose between a mainland or free zone business setup, depending on which best meets your business requirements. Dubai Healthcare City is a specialized free zone that is often preferred by aspiring nutritionists in Dubai due to its top-notch infrastructure, facilities, and ease of business setup.
Step 3 – Register trade name:
Next, you will choose a name for your business. Choose a memorable and trendy name that follows all the laws of the UAE government. Your name must also be ethical and adhere to moral standards and norms.
Step 4 – Select legal structure:
Next, you need to choose a suitable business structure in UAE. You can operate as a sole proprietor, which allows you to enjoy full autonomy, or you may also choose to set up a limited liability company (LLC) or a branch office. The choice is all up to the scale and nature of your business.
Step 5 – Sign LSA agreement:
Offering nutritionist services falls under professional activities in the UAE, which may require you to sign a Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement.
Step 6 – Rent an office space:
Next, you must choose a suitable office space for your clinic. Ensure that the space includes all necessary facilities for client comfort, such as updated and well-maintained medical equipment, a spacious waiting area, and a dedicated room for consultations. For rented spaces, you must register the tenancy contract on the Ejari portal to comply with local regulations.
Step 7 – Obtain the necessary licenses:
Finally, along with all the documents, you must apply for the professional license for your clinic with the Department of Economic Development (DED) (on the mainland) or relevant free zone authority and pay the necessary fee. Please note that the clinic’s nutritionist and dietitian must also secure a nutritionist license with the required qualifications to practice as a nutritionist in Dubai. Once you meet all the specifications, your UAE trade license for the clinic will be granted.
Step 8 – Open a bank account for your clinic:
Get your business bank account to track all its financial transactions, expenses and receipts.
Note: This process can vary depending on the jurisdiction you choose for your clinic and other factors. But here’s the good news, you can leave the entire process of business setup in Dubai to us, allowing you to focus on your business goals without the hassle. Contact Dubiz business setup today!
Process of getting a DHA nutritionist license:
Whether you choose to set up a clinic, work in a health club, or operate independently, acquiring a nutritionist license is essential for operating legally. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) license is one of the popular options among healthcare professionals, including nutritionists. Here is how to get DHA nutritionist license in Dubai and how to become a registered dietitian in Dubai:
1. Sign up for DHA Sheryan account:
First you must create an account on DHA’s online portal, Sheryan. This platform will be your primary tool for submitting and tracking your application for services and accessing to all the services provided by Dubai Health Authority.
2. Self-assessment:
The next important step is to check your eligibility for the DHA license application. You can visit the Sheryan self-assessment portal through the DHA website. There, you will need to answer a few questions and, after completing them, click on “Get Results.” The screen will display whether you are eligible or not. If you are declared ineligible, you will have an option for ‘Manual Review, ‘ which involves a fee of AED 200.
3. Click on get registered:
If you are found eligible, you will see the “Get Registered” button on the screen. Registering with the DHA confirms that you meet all the requirements to be a nutritionist. There are three steps to activate your registration:
- Go to data flow for document verification: DHA conducts a primary source verification of your submitted documents, including your qualifications, experience letters, and current licenses, to ensure their authenticity, and this process is carried out through Data Flow. Applicants can either click ‘Go to Data Flow’ from the registration page of their DHA Sheryan account or register directly on the Data Flow portal and get documents verified.
- Go to Prometric for CBT assessment: You must pass a computer-based test (CBT) through Prometric, a third-party service provider. You can book your assessment by clicking ‘Go to Prometric’ or directly going to the Prometric portal.
- Submit registration application form: Once document verification and the CBT are completed, the button ‘Open Form’ will become active. Enter all the required information, then click on “Review Form” to double-check the details. After reviewing, click on “Pay Now.” A confirmation page will appear with your reference number. Be sure to note this down.
4. Obtain registration:
DHA will review the application after submission. Once approved, you will receive an active registration valid for one year (twelve months).
5. Schedule an oral assessment if needed:
You may be required to pass an oral examination for which you will need to pay an additional fee of AED 250.
6. Apply for professional license:
Once you have passed all the previous stages, you can finally apply for your professional license through the Sheryan Portal. You must pay the necessary fees. The application will be reviewed by DHA.
7. License issuance:
If everything is in place, your nutritionist license will be issued to you, and you can start practicing legally in the city.
This license will allow you to practice as a nutritionist in the entire city of Dubai other than Dubai Healthcare City (DHC), which has its own process and exams.
Cost of establishing a nutritionist business in Dubai:
The cost of obtaining a nutritionist license in Dubai mainland is around AED 11,000*, with additional costs including AED 3,500* for a visa and AED 600* for an establishment card. However, these costs can vary with the selected jurisdiction, business nature, and activities.
Our Dubiz Business setup experts can help you determine the exact costs.
Your way to becoming a successful nutritionist in Dubai:
Becoming a nutritionist in Dubai involves a meticulous process. Since it pertains to health services, you need to secure proper approvals and licenses to practice legally in the city. However, the reward is worth all the effort. The demand for nutritionists in Dubai is thriving, and you have the opportunity to serve society while fulfilling your own goals.
Millions of people are waiting for your guidance and expertise in Dubai. Start your journey as a nutritionist and make a difference. Let Dubiz be your guide in this fulfilling endeavour. We will make obtaining your dietitian license Dubai a piece of cake for you. Our experts specialize in business setup in Dubai and will assist you with all the necessary details.
Contact DUBIZ today at +971 562986853 or WhatsApp us at +971 569973630. You can also drop an email at info@dubiz.co for any inquiries.
FAQs
1. Who is a nutritionist?
Nutritionists are healthcare experts who specialize in food and diet. They help people prevent and treat illnesses by creating personalized nutritional plans.
2. Can Indian dietitians work in Dubai?
Yes, as an Indian, you can easily work as a dietitian in Dubai. You can register with the Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA) and obtain a nutritionist license by meeting the necessary requirements and passing an exam. Once you are licensed, you can begin searching and applying for jobs, or even start your own clinic.
3. How to become a licensed Nutritionist in Dubai?
You can apply to the Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA) or the relevant regulatory body to obtain your nutritionist license. You will need to submit documents such as your educational certifications and work experience and pass the licensing exam.
4. What certifications or qualifications are needed to work as a nutritionist in Dubai?
You will need at least 2 years of work experience and a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, or a related health science field from an accredited institution. Additionally, you may be required to pass exams to obtain your license.
5. What are the DHA exam requirements for dietitians?
Some of the requirements and necessities DHA exam for dietitians include:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, or a related health science field from an accredited institution, with a concentration in dietetics and nutrition.
- At least two years of work experience as a nutritionist.
- A current license or registration to practice as a nutritionist from the relevant authority in your recent country of employment.
- A letter of experience (LOE) signed and stamped by an authorized representative of your employer.
- English language proficiency with acceptable scores from TOEFL, IELTS, OET, or Cambridge Assessment English. There can be some exemptions.
- A certificate of good standing issued within the last six months from the licensing authority or professional membership body where you hold a license or registration.
- A police clearance certificate from the country where you practiced or trained recently.
6. What license is needed for a Diet clinic in Dubai?
You will need to obtain a professional license for your diet clinic on mainland which is issued by Department of Economic Development (DED). It comes under activity code 8690008 (
Dieting & Weight Control Services), under approval of Dubai Health Authority. It includes companies that focus on diet systems and weight management programs, who offer consultations, advice, support, and regular follow-ups to help customers maintain lifestyle changes, including guidance on low-calorie meals.
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