ACLS and Licensing
In the UAE, professionals are licensed by DOH in Abu Dhabi, DHA in Dubai and MOHAP in the other emirates, and facilities add their own credentialling rules. An AHA ACLS course certificate is commonly part of that picture for acute-care roles.
The usual pattern
BLS for all clinical staff; ACLS for doctors and nurses in acute areas, paramedics and anyone on a resuscitation team; PALS for those who treat children. Requirements vary by licence category and facility, so always confirm the current rule.
Their websites, linked below, are the authoritative source for current licensing conditions.
At hiring, at privileging and at renewal, credentialling teams check that your cards are current and genuine, typically by verifying the AHA eCard code — see the ACLS certificate. Many also require the card to be valid for the length of your contract or privileges.
See ACLS for doctors and nurses, ACLS for emergency and ICU nurses, ACLS for paramedics and ACLS for dental and sedation teams.
ACLS does not replace BLS. Both are usually checked. See BLS for DOH, DHA and MOH licensing.
Clinicians moving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, or from the Northern Emirates to Dubai, change regulator. An AHA ACLS card goes with you, but check the new facility’s credentialling requirements before your start date.
Other life support and first aid courses: BLS Course · PALS Course · First Aid Course · Training calendar
It depends on the licence category and facility. Many acute-care roles in Abu Dhabi require ACLS; confirm with DOH or your employer.
AHA ACLS is widely accepted by Dubai facilities; confirm the requirement for your licence with DHA or your employer.
For some roles and facilities. Check the current MOHAP guidance and your employer's policy.
No, both are usually checked.
By checking the AHA eCard code online.
Safety First Medical Services is an American Heart Association training centre on Al Reem Island. HeartCode blended ACLS, classroom ACLS and on-site group ACLS for hospitals and clinics, with a two-year AHA ACLS Provider eCard on completion.
See ACLS dates and register ACLS course overview Group booking enquiry
What we teach follows the awarding body and the UAE health authorities. For the definitive position on a course or licensing question, these are the places to check.
Last reviewed by the training team at Safety First Medical Services, an American Heart Association training centre at Addax Office Tower, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Call +971 55 761 9841 or email training@safetyfirstmed.ae.