Dubai has become known worldwide as a business hub where professionals and entrepreneurs can have many opportunities for growth. This is why many migrate to this city to pursue various careers and businesses.
The pet industry in the UAE is forecasted to grow by 500% by 2025. Due to the expected influx in the demand for professional pet care, veterinarians will be more sought-after in the UAE in the coming years.
In this guide, you’ll understand the benefits, requirements, and helpful tips to be a veterinarian in Dubai.
Why Pursue a Veterinarian Career in Dubai?
One of the best places to start or continue your veterinary career is Dubai. It’s an attractive destination for professionals because of several reasons.
- Attractive Salaries – Licensed veterinarians can make around AED 120,000 to AED 360,000 annually. Many roles include tax-free income, housing allowances, and transportation benefits.
- High Demand – The UAE’s expanding pet population and focus on animal welfare have led to a growing demand for qualified veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and technicians.
- Lifestyle Benefits – Living in Dubai can be a wonderful experience because of the city’s ideal climates all year round, diverse culture, and luxurious amenities.
- Opportunities for Growth – Most veterinary clinics in Dubai are equipped with complete tools for the medical needs of all pets. Because of this, most vets will have opportunities to handle a variety of cases to help them expand their skill set and expertise.
“Working in Dubai as a veterinarian gives me a sense of fulfillment. I get to help a growing pet community while constantly learning and expanding my skills to further provide the best services for them,” says Dr. Soheyl Simaei of Noble Veterinary Clinics.
Requirements and Licensing to Become a Veterinarian in Dubai
Like all professions, there are certain requirements for practicing veterinary medicine in Dubai. To work as a veterinarian in Dubai, you’ll need:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Medicine.
- At least five years of professional experience to get a full veterinary license.
You don’t need to worry if your total work experience is less than 5 years. You may still be able to qualify for other roles with a Veterinary Technician License. This type of license only requires at least one year of experience, and you’ll be working in supervised environments.
To obtain an unrestricted veterinary license in the UAE, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Documents
- High school certificates of the last three years with proof from the UAE Embassy of the country where they were earned
- The diploma with your transcript for the last five years of your degree with the university’s verification
- Reference letters from your past employers with confirmed employment roles and dates
- If your documents are not in Arabic or English, they must be translated into either of these languages and verified by the Foreign Ministry and the UAE Embassy in your country, as well as by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE (MOFA).
Step 2: Apply for an Equivalency Certificate
To get this certificate, apply to the UAE Ministry of Education. This is needed to confirm your qualifications.
Step 3: Submit the Licensing Application
Instead of applying for a Full Veterinary License on your own, it’s advisable to find a veterinary clinic where you want to pursue your career in Dubai. Most clinics that hire vets offer assistance with licensing applications.
You can be hired by a clinic in Dubai while you’re still in another country. Then, they will submit your license application to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). They’ll either apply for the following:
- A Full Veterinary License if you have five or more years of experience.
- A Veterinary Technician License if you have one year of professional experience.
Step 4: Pass the Licensing Exam
You will need to pass the MOCCAE licensing exam. This includes a written test and an interview. They will provide the exam dates within a few weeks of submitting the application.
Step 5: Secure a Work Permit and Residency Visa
Employers usually sponsor veterinarians for these requirements. They’re essential documents for you to live and work in Dubai.
Exploring Veterinary Jobs in Dubai
There are various opportunities for veterinary professionals in Dubai. Besides veterinary doctors, there are also clinics that are in need of veterinary nurses and technicians.
Veterinary nurses provide support during procedures and ensure the comfort and care of their patients. On the other hand, veterinary technicians assist in pet diagnostic procedures and administer medications.
Veterinarians have opportunities to grow by acquiring specializations or even transitioning into managerial roles. Looking for a Dubai veterinary clinic that values continuous learning is important because they would likely offer training and development programs to their employees.
How to Land a Job at Top Veterinary Clinics in Dubai
According to Dr. Soheyl, “Choosing the right clinic in Dubai can help shape your career. Working in a place that values learning and development allows you to grow while helping pets in the community”.
Whether you’re already in the UAE or still in your home country, it’s important to start looking for the top veterinary clinics in Dubai if you plan to have a career in the city. Here are tips so you can get your dream job at the best vet clinic in Dubai.
- Do Your Research – Identify reputable vet clinics and hospitals in Dubai through online platforms like LinkedIn or recruitment agencies.
- Customize Your CV – While you may already have a prepared CV, tailoring it to be a better fit for your target role and clinic will help you stand out from your competitors.
- Prepare for Interviews – You must research the clinic you’re applying to, the culture in Dubai, and other updated information about the veterinary industry in the UAE. This can give you a plus factor during your interview.
- Be Proactive in Applying for a License – The licensing process can take months. It’ll be best to begin gathering your requirements early to avoid delays.
- Build Your Portfolio – A portfolio is not only useful for creatives, but it’s also beneficial for veterinary professionals. You can showcase different cases you have handled to highlight your problem-solving skills.
Challenges You May Face
While a veterinarian career in Dubai is promising, you should expect some challenges that may come up. The licensing process can take six months to a year to complete because of the needed verifications for your documents.
In Dubai, you’ll be servicing a multicultural client base, so you may need to have strong communication skills. If this is a soft skill you’re struggling with, you should consider taking up some online courses or training to enhance your communication skills.
It’s also important to remember that Western-trained veterinarians are in demand in Dubai. If you’re from a different region, you must do your best to stand out in this competitive job market.
Conclusion
Dubai offers veterinarians professional growth, competitive salaries, and an amazing lifestyle to provide expert care to the pets in the city. While the demand for veterinarians is high in the city and throughout the UAE, you should expect that the competition can be difficult.
However, once you’ve landed a job at one of the top veterinary clinics in Dubai, everything will be smooth sailing from there. You may need some time to process your requirements and license, but in the end, it’ll be worth the effort and wait once you’re already providing exceptional vet care to the pets of Dubai and the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do vets get paid in Dubai?
Veterinarians in Dubai can earn between AED 120,000 and AED 360,000 every year, depending on their experience and specialization. Many roles also include housing allowance, tax-free income, and other benefits.
How can I be a vet in Dubai?
To become a vet in Dubai, you need a Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Medicine, five years of experience, and a MOCCAE license. Prepare the required documents, pass the licensing exam, and secure a residency visa with your employer’s help.
What are the top 3 industries for veterinarians?
The top industries for veterinarians in Dubai are private clinics, animal welfare organizations, and government agencies. These sectors hire vet professionals for different roles, including pet care and public health.
