If you are a psychologist wanting to practice in the UAE or a professional looking to get licensed in a different emirate, you need to be licensed by the competent authority in Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. In Sharjah, you must have at least 2 years of experience in the social profession and apply for a license from the Sharjah Social Services Department (SSSD). Failure to have a license in Sharjah can result in a fine of Dh5000. The social care professionals who can obtain the license include social workers, counseling psychologists, occupational therapists, and more.
To obtain a license in Sharjah, you can apply through the website using UAE Pass or visit the customer happiness centre with an Emirates ID reader. Required documents include a copy of a valid passport, family book, Emirates ID for Emiratis, accredited academic qualifications, and more. The applicant must have full legal capacity, not have any criminal convictions, and pass an evaluation test by the committee. Fees for the license application in Sharjah include an evaluation test for Dh1,000 and service fees for Dh300.
In Dubai, to practice a social care profession, you need to apply for a license valid for 2 years from the Community Development Authority (CDA). The professionals eligible for the license include social workers, therapists, and special education teachers. The application process involves submitting documents to the authority, obtaining verification from Dataflow, and taking a professional licensing examination at British University Dubai.
Additional conditions for obtaining a license in Dubai include being a UAE resident, having full civil capacity, and good conduct. The applicant must not have any criminal convictions involving moral turpitude or dishonesty unless rehabilitated. The service to apply for a social worker license in Dubai is free. In Abu Dhabi, those wishing to practice a social care profession must apply for a license valid for a year from the Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development. The service is also free in this emirate.
The steps to apply for a license in Abu Dhabi involve logging in through UAE Pass, submitting the application along with required documents, completing specified procedures, and passing a professional competency test. Required documents include a copy of a valid passport, passport-sized photo, equivalency report of academic certificate, and more. The applicant must also provide a certificate of good conduct from the employer and a police clearance certificate.
In conclusion, to practice a social care profession in the UAE, it is essential to obtain a license from the competent authority in Sharjah, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi. Each emirate has specific requirements, steps, and conditions for obtaining a license. By following the guidelines and submitting the necessary documents, professionals can successfully apply for a license and practice their profession in the UAE. Stay updated with the latest news on this topic by following reliable sources such as Khaleej Times.
