How To Get The Licence For Medical Store In Dubai

If you're interested in opening a medical store in Dubai, it's essential to obtain the necessary licenses and permits. In Dubai, the regulatory body for pharmacies and medical stores is the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). In this article, we'll go through the process of obtaining a license to open a medical store in Dubai.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Business Structure

The first step in obtaining a license for a medical store is choosing the appropriate business structure. You can choose from a sole proprietorship, partnership, or a limited liability company. Each structure has its own requirements, advantages, and disadvantages, so it's essential to consult a lawyer or a business consultant before making a decision.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Location

Once you've decided on the business structure, you'll need to find a suitable location for your medical store. The location should be easily accessible, and it should comply with the zoning regulations set by the Dubai Municipality. You'll also need to obtain the necessary permits from the Dubai Municipality to operate a commercial establishment.

Step 3: Obtain a Trade License

To open a medical store in Dubai, you'll need to obtain a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED). The trade license is a legal document that allows you to conduct business in Dubai. To obtain the trade license, you'll need to submit the necessary documents, including your passport, Emirates ID, and residency visa, along with the business registration documents.

Step 4: Obtain a Commercial License

In addition to the trade license, you'll also need to obtain a commercial license from the DHA. The commercial license allows you to sell pharmaceutical products and medical supplies. To obtain the commercial license, you'll need to submit the necessary documents, including the trade license, a detailed business plan, and a site plan of the store's location.

Step 5: Obtain a Pharmacy License

To operate a pharmacy in Dubai, you'll need to obtain a pharmacy license from the DHA. The pharmacy license is a separate license from the commercial license and is required to sell prescription medications. To obtain the pharmacy license, you'll need to have a qualified pharmacist on staff and meet the DHA's requirements for pharmaceutical storage, handling, and dispensing.

Step 6: Hire Qualified Staff

To operate a medical store in Dubai, you'll need to hire qualified staff. The DHA requires that at least one qualified pharmacist be present at the store during operating hours. The pharmacist should be licensed by the DHA and should have a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from a recognized university. You'll also need to hire sales staff and support staff to manage the store's operations.

Step 7: Comply with Regulatory Requirements

To maintain your medical store's license, you'll need to comply with regulatory requirements set by the DHA. The DHA has strict regulations regarding pharmaceutical storage, handling, and dispensing. You'll need to maintain proper records of all pharmaceutical products sold, and you'll need to ensure that the store complies with the DHA's guidelines for storage and handling of medications.

Conclusion

Obtaining a license to open a medical store in Dubai can be a complex process, but it's essential to ensure that your store is operating legally and safely. By following the steps outlined above and working with a qualified consultant or lawyer, you can navigate the licensing process and start your medical store in Dubai.