Published Date: 29 November, 2022
As the UAE celebrates its 51st National Day, we asked DataFlow applicants and healthcare professionals about their experience working as an expatriate in the UAE.
With one of the best healthcare systems in the world, the UAE has acted as a platform of success for their personal and professional lives. Hear what 3 of our DataFlow applicants had to say about what the UAE means to them:
Pakistani General Physician, Dr. Tooba Rizwi – Saudi German Group
7 + years in the UAE
1. Hi Dr. Rizwi 👋 What prompted you to move to the UAE?
I chose UAE because of the easy visa application process. There are multiple opportunities for doctors and healthcare workers.
Personally, one of the biggest personal advantages of living in UAE is that being a mother of two kids. I feel satisfied raising them in an Islamic environment. This country has provided all the basic necessities and security required to lead a happy and luxurious life.
2. How does the UAE’s healthcare environment differ from your home country?
I worked for many years in my home country too. The difference, when I compare that to working in the UAE, is that we get exposure to multiple nationalities. We get more professional experience. Also, the policies, rules, and regulations here are much stronger and more authentic.
3. Would you recommend a healthcare career in UAE? Why?
I highly encourage all my colleagues and friends back home to apply for healthcare opportunities here in the UAE. There are so many long-term benefits. An excellent living environment, better salary packages, etc. One of the biggest benefits I received from the UAE government was that I got my golden visa for 10 years and I have sponsored my family too. So, I can say that my future as a healthcare worker is safe here.
4. What were some of the documentation/requirements needed to start a healthcare profession in the UAE?
One of the most important steps we need to take before making the big move is that we need to get our documents attested—all our educational degrees, work experience letters, internship certificates, etc. And I used the DataFlow Group’s services for this process.
I must say that after God, I am thankful to UAE for my progress. I’m blessed to have received the Golden Visa over here. My kids are studying here in a safe environment according to the Muslim culture. UAE is the greatest place to live life; invite your families and enjoy quality time with them.
Filipino Dental Nurse, Nina Lopez – Dubai Health Authority
11+ years in the UAE
1. Hi Nina 👋 What prompted you to move to the UAE?
Back in 2010, I heard that UAE has a booming healthcare industry, so I moved here and started applying for jobs. I actually walked into clinics and handed over my CV in order to try my luck. The first job I got was at a dental clinic near my place and I’ve never looked back ever since.
2. What were some of the documentation/requirements needed to start a healthcare profession in the UAE?
I got to know through friends that before applying for jobs, I have to get my documents verified and I have to pass the DHA licensure exam for a hundred percent hiring rate. All employers look for healthcare professionals with a valid DHA license, so I made sure to pass my exam before starting a job.
I used the DataFlow Group’s services to verify my certificate of employment and my educational credentials and I still remember that my university registrar contacted me and told me that they received a call overseas from DataFlow, verifying if I’m a graduate in that.
3. What does the UAE mean to you?
I came here when I was 23 and then fast forward 11 years, today, I know the UAE more than my home country! I am very comfortable living here. I feel very safe and very secure.
Would you recommend a healthcare career in UAE? Why?
Firstly, it’s the tax-free salary, and secondly, it’s so exciting to live in one of the most advanced and innovative countries in the world. We have some of the top healthcare technologies in the world.
I’ve got to work with diverse colleagues and diverse people. So I’ve got to know new cultures and beliefs. UAE will always be my second home!
Egyptian Senior Clinical Embryologist, Dr. Ahmed El-Damen – ART Fertility Clinics
4+ years in the UAE
1. Hi Dr. El-Damen 👋 What prompted you to choose a career as an embryologist?
I’m a senior clinical embryologist, which means I’m technically a scientist. I am originally a biologist and back in the late nineties when I joined college, it was very fascinating to imagine that you could observe the human embryo under a microscope as it grows. I always dreamed to be a part of such sophisticated biological science.
Once I graduated, I searched for some clinics and started applying for jobs online. I had to wait quite a bit until I finally got accepted in one of the training sessions and that’s when my professional journey started.
I encourage everyone with a biological background and an interest in studying the embryo to step into this field as it grows by leaps and bounds.
2. How has the atmosphere in the UAE helped you grow professionally?
UAE is one of the most culturally diverse counties in the world. There are so many nationalities co-living peacefully. It is also extremely technologically advanced. We have the most advanced levels of science and technology available at our fingertips to help with our clinical research.
I applied for jobs via LinkedIn and once I got the job offer, I sent all my documents to get verified through DataFlow for a DHA exam. I went through the official process of being certified by the Dubai Health Authority. And after passing my exam, I had the license to come and start practicing in Dubai.
3. What does the UAE mean to you?
I’m really blessed to be living and working in the UAE. I cannot imagine a life better than this. It’s very satisfying. We have a peaceful life and I always wish for a better and more beautiful future for the UAE.
We’d like to thank our applicants for sharing their journeys and personal stories with us for UAE National Day 2022.
