How long does the Dubai medical test take?

The full process at the centre takes 30-45 minutes; results appear in your ICP account within 24-48 hours.

Can I walk in without booking?

No. All DHA centres require an online ICP appointment; walk-ins are turned away.

What if I test positive for TB?

You will be referred to a DHA clinic for further evaluation; residency processing pauses until you receive clearance.

Is the test different for tourists and residents?

The test is identical; only the visa category and required documents differ.

Can I use a medical report from another emirate?

No. Dubai visa applicants must use a DHA-approved Dubai centre; reports from Abu Dhabi or Sharjah are not accepted.

How to Apply for Medical Test in Dubai 2026

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Quick answer

In 2026 you book a medical fitness test through the official ICP portal or the DHA app, then visit any DHA-approved centre in Dubai. The test takes 30-45 minutes, results upload automatically within 24-48 hours, and the fee is AED 750 for new residency applications. Bring your Emirates ID application number, passport copy, and two passport photos.

Why Dubai requires a medical test

Every person applying for a new residence visa, renewing an existing one, or changing status must pass a medical fitness test. The DHA screens for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis B and C, and leprosy. The certificate is valid for 90 days from the test date.

Who needs the test in 2026

New residency visa applicants (employment, family sponsorship, golden visa, remote work visa)
Residency renewal applicants after two years
People changing status from visit to residence
Domestic workers and their sponsors

Approved medical fitness centres in Dubai

Only DHA-licensed centres can issue valid certificates. Popular options include:

Al Baraha Medical Fitness Centre (Al Baraha)
Al Quoz Medical Fitness Centre (Al Quoz Industrial)
Al Twar Medical Fitness Centre (Al Twar 2)
American Hospital Dubai (outpatient clinic)
Mediclinic City Hospital (Healthcare City)

Check current opening hours and appointment slots on the DHA app before you travel.

Step-by-step: how to apply for medical test in Dubai

Step 1 – Create or log into ICP account

Go to icp.gov.ae or download the ICP UAE app. If you already have a visa application number from GDRFA or ICP, link it to your profile. Tourists converting to residency must first obtain an Emirates ID application number.

Step 2 – Book your slot online

Inside the ICP portal select “Medical Fitness” then “Book Appointment”. Choose Dubai, pick a centre, and select a date. You will receive a confirmation SMS with a QR code. The system shows real-time availability; popular centres fill up 3-5 days ahead.

Step 3 – Prepare required documents

Original passport valid six months or more
Two recent passport-size photos (white background)
Emirates ID application number or visa copy
ICP medical fitness payment receipt (AED 750)
Previous medical fitness certificate (for renewals only)

Step 4 – Arrive at the centre

Reach the centre 15 minutes early. Security will scan your QR code and temperature. You will be guided through registration, X-ray, blood draw, and a brief physical check. The entire process takes under an hour at most branches.

Step 5 – Receive your results

Negative results upload automatically to the ICP system within 24-48 hours. You can download the electronic fitness certificate from your ICP account or present the SMS link at Amer centres. Positive cases are referred to DHA clinics for counselling and further tests; residency applications are paused until clearance.

Common mistakes to avoid

Booking at a non-DHA centre and discovering the certificate is invalid
Forgetting to fast for 8 hours if asked for a fasting blood glucose test
Using an expired passport copy or mismatched photo
Paying only the typing-centre fee and missing the DHA medical charge
Assuming results are instant – plan at least two working days before your visa appointment

Cost breakdown 2026

Medical fitness test (new application)	AED 750
Renewal test (after two years)	AED 550
Typing centre service fee	AED 110-150
Emirates ID renewal (if required)	verify current fee with ICP

Prices are set by DHA and ICP; always verify current fee with the authority before payment.

Tips for a smooth visit

Book the earliest slot (7:30 am) to avoid crowds and same-day result delays
Wear a short-sleeve shirt for the blood test
Women should schedule outside menstrual cycle if possible; reschedule if pregnant (different protocol)
Keep the confirmation SMS and payment receipt until your visa is stamped
If you have chronic conditions, carry recent medical reports to speed up review

Medical test vs COVID-19 PCR test

The residency medical fitness test is completely separate from COVID-19 testing. No PCR is required for visa medicals in 2026. However, if you show respiratory symptoms at the centre you may be asked to take a free rapid antigen test before proceeding.

After the test: next steps

Once the certificate appears in your ICP account, book your Emirates ID biometrics appointment at an Amer or ICP centre. Carry the medical fitness certificate number when you submit your visa application. The certificate is valid for 90 days; if your visa stamping is delayed beyond this window you must repeat the test.

Key takeaway

Applying for a medical test in Dubai is straightforward when you use the official ICP portal, choose a DHA-approved centre, and bring the correct documents. Book early, arrive prepared, and allow two working days for results to keep your residency timeline on track.