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Author: Hassan Published On: November 2, 2025

Navigating the Dubai visa process can be stressful, but no step causes more anxiety than the mandatory medical fitness test. As a PRO service in Dubai, we’ve guided thousands of clients through this exact process.

We know you have questions that generic blogs can’t answer: What exactly happens if they see an old TB scar? Is the “VIP” service worth the money? What’s the fastest center to use?

This is not a generic guide. This is our expert-on-the-ground, E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trust) guide to passing your medical test.

First: What is the Visa Medical Test?

The medical fitness test is a mandatory requirement for anyone applying for a new UAE residence visa or, in many cases, renewing an old one. It is regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and is designed to screen for specific communicable diseases to protect public health.

As of the new July 2025 public health laws, all tests must be done at a DHA-approved medical fitness center.

What Tests Are Actually Done? (The 2025 Requirements)

For most applicants (e.g., standard office jobs, investors), the test is very fast and includes two main parts:

1. Blood Test: This is a simple blood draw to screen for HIV and Hepatitis B.
2. Chest X-Ray: This is to screen for Tuberculosis (TB).

That’s it for most people. However, for certain job categories, additional tests are required:

• Job Categories: Food handlers, nannies, housemaids, salon workers, and nursery supervisors.
• Additional Tests: These categories will also be tested for Hepatitis C and Syphilis.
• Pregnancy Test: Female domestic workers are also required to take a pregnancy test.

The Step-by-Step Process: What to Expect on the Day

Here is the exact process from start to finish.

1. Get Your Application: Your PRO (like us) or your employer will type your visa application and get your “Medical Test” application form. You cannot just walk in without this.
2. Choose Your Center: You can go to any of the 20+ DHA-approved “Medical Fitness Centers.” (A list of popular ones is below).
3. Registration: You will hand over your documents at the counter.
4. Blood Test: You’ll be called for a quick blood draw.
5. X-Ray: You’ll be directed to a separate room for the chest X-ray. You will be asked to change into a gown.
6. Leave: The entire process at a normal center can take 30-60 minutes, depending on the crowd.

Choosing Your Center: Cost vs. Speed (PRO INSIDER TIP)

This is the most important choice you’ll make. You have three main options, and the one you choose depends on your budget and your patience.

As a PRO, we always advise our clients to use the Smart Salem center in City Walk. While the Al Quoz or Muhaisnah centers are perfectly fine, they can get extremely crowded in the mornings. For the extra AED 400, the Smart Salem service gives you peace of mind and your results before you’ve even finished your coffee. We’ve had clients get their “Fit” certificate email while walking back to their car.

The Big Fear: What About Old TB Scars?

This is the #1 question we get. The answer is critical, and it depends on if your visa is new or a renewal.

• For New Visas: This is a serious issue. If the X-ray shows any sign of a TB scar (even if it’s 20 years old and inactive), your application will be flagged. You will be called to the Muhaisnah Medical Fitness Center for follow-up tests (like a sputum test). If these tests confirm old, inactive TB, your application is still likely to be rejected and you may be required to leave the country.
• For Visa Renewals: The rules are different. If an old, inactive TB scar is found, you will not be deported. You will be issued a one-year “Conditional Fitness” visa and be required to undergo treatment and follow-up with the DHA.

Common Mistakes That Can Cost You Your Visa

• Using a Non-Approved Clinic: Going to a random hospital for your test is not allowed. The results will be rejected. You must go to a DHA-approved “Medical Fitness Center.”
• Forgetting Your Documents: You must bring your original passport, a copy of your visa application, and your Emirates ID (if renewing).
• Failing to Disclose: If you are pregnant, you must inform the staff. They will provide a lead shield for the X-ray. Hiding it is not an option and can be dangerous.

Authoritative Sources (This is who to trust)

As experts, we only rely on official sources. You can find all the official rules at:

1. Dubai Health Authority (DHA): The main government body regulating the tests.
2. UAE Government Portal (u.ae): Has the official list of required health conditions.
3. GDRFA Dubai: The immigration authority that issues the final visa.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Let Us Handle It.

The medical test is a simple step, but it has high stakes. A small mistake can lead to a failed application and thousands of dirhams lost.

At The Dubai Pro, we don’t just type your forms. We provide a full, end-to-end service. We will book your medical test, advise you on the best and fastest center to use, and manage your results. If there’s a problem, we know exactly who to call.

Don’t risk your visa. +971 5069 72512 for a free consultation, and let us make your visa process simple and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What happens if I fail the Dubai visa medical test?

This is the most common concern. If you receive an “unfit” result for a communicable disease like HIV or active TB, the visa application will be rejected, and you will be required to leave the country. For old/inactive TB scars on a new visa, you will be called for follow-up tests, but the application is still likely to be rejected.

Q2: Do I need to book an appointment for the medical test?

For most standard centers (like Al Quoz or Muhaisnah), an appointment is not required; you can walk in. However, for premium, fast-track services like Smart Salem, you must book an appointment online in advance.

Q3: How long is the medical fitness certificate valid for?

Your “Fit” certificate is valid for 90 days (3 months). You must complete the rest of your visa stamping process (like Emirates ID biometrics and visa stamping) within this window.

Q4: I am pregnant. Can I still do the medical test?

Yes. You must inform the staff at the X-ray department that you are pregnant. They will provide you with a “lead-shield” apron to protect your abdomen during the chest X-ray. It is safe and mandatory.

Q5: Do they test for drugs or alcohol during the visa medical?

No. The standard visa medical test does not screen for recreational drugs or alcohol. It is strictly limited to the communicable diseases (HIV, TB, Hepatitis, Syphilis) mandated by the DHA.

Q6: My company is paying. Which service will they choose?

Almost all companies will use the Normal / Standard Service (24-48 hour results) as it is the most affordable. If you are in a hurry, you can often “upgrade” your service at the center by paying the difference yourself (e.g., pay the extra AED 430 to get VIP 6-hour results).

Author Biography

Hassan is the Senior PRO and founder of The Dubai Pro. With over 5 years of experience, He has personally processed over 1100+ successful employment and residency visas. He is an expert in navigating the complex rules of the DHA and GDRFA and is passionate about helping new residents start their life in Dubai without stress.