Cabinet Resolution No. 5 of 2016 & DHA / EHS Screening
UAE Medical Fitness Screening Guide
Step-by-step guide to mandatory medical tests for new residence visas and annual renewals — blood screening, chest X-rays, Smart Salem 30-min express centers, fees, and TB rules.
Mandatory Public Health Screening
Under UAE immigration laws, all foreign residents aged 18 and above must pass a **Medical Fitness Examination** before a Residence Visa can be stamped or renewed by ICP / GDRFA Dubai.
Screening is conducted exclusively at government-certified medical fitness centers operated by **DHA (Dubai)**, **SEHA (Abu Dhabi)**, and **EHS (Northern Emirates)**.
Standard Medical Fitness Screening
| Screening Category | Details & Timelines |
|---|---|
| Result Turnaround Time | Results within 24 to 48 Hours |
| Government Service Fee | AED 250 – 320 |
| Screening Component Tests | Blood test (HIV, Hepatitis B/C, Syphilis) + Chest X-Ray (Tuberculosis) |
Mandatory Screening Tests by Job Role
- 🩸 All Expat Applicants (18+): HIV 1/2 blood test + Chest X-Ray for Pulmonary TB
- 💉 Domestic Workers & Nannies: Additional Hepatitis B, Syphilis, & Pregnancy test
- 👨🍳 Food Handlers & Restaurant Staff: Additional Hepatitis B & Salmonella screening
- 💈 Salons, Spas, & Barbers: Additional Hepatitis B & C screening
Required Documents for Testing
- 📄 Entry Permit copy (for new visa) or Residence Visa copy (for renewal)
- 📘 Original Passport (must be physically presented at screening center)
- 📸 2 passport-sized photographs with white background
- 🪪 Emirates ID card or ICP registration form
Frequently Asked Questions
All expats (18+) undergo HIV blood test and Chest X-Ray for TB. Domestic workers and food handlers undergo additional Hepatitis B, Syphilis, and pregnancy tests.
Applicants with inactive TB or old scarring receive a Conditional Fitness Certificate and undergo a 1-year preventive treatment program (DOTS) while keeping their visa.
Conducted at DHA Medical Fitness Centers (Al Muhaisnah, Rashidiya, Karama, Knowledge Park) or Smart Salem Centers (DIFC, City Walk, Knowledge Park) for 30-min express results.
DHA & Smart Salem Verified
• DHA Medical Fitness Portal: dha.gov.ae
• Smart Salem Express Centers: smartsalem.ae