Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Approval for Advertising in Dubai
Regulatory Clearance for Healthcare, Wellness & Cosmetic Advertising
Advertising related to healthcare, medical services, wellness, and cosmetic treatments in Dubai is strictly regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Any organization promoting healthcare-related services or claims must obtain DHA approval before launching advertising campaigns in Dubai.
DHA approvals are mandatory to ensure patient safety, ethical communication, and accuracy of medical information across all advertising channels, including outdoor and out-of-home (OOH) media.
At OAU (OutdoorAdvertisingUAE.com), we help healthcare brands plan and execute DHA-compliant outdoor advertising campaigns with confidence.
What Is DHA Advertising Approval?
DHA advertising approval is an official clearance required for advertisements that promote:
- Hospitals, clinics, and medical centers
- Doctors, dentists, and licensed practitioners
- Medical treatments and procedures
- Cosmetic, aesthetic, and wellness services
- Healthcare-related claims and outcomes
Any public-facing advertisement referencing healthcare in Dubai must be approved prior to publication.
When Is DHA Approval Required?
DHA approval is required when advertising:
- Healthcare facilities licensed in Dubai
- Medical professionals registered with DHA
- Treatment-based or diagnostic services
- Cosmetic and aesthetic procedures
- Health and wellness services making medical claims
This applies to outdoor advertising, digital ads, print media, transit advertising, mall media, and event branding.
Key DHA Advertising Compliance Guidelines
To obtain DHA approval, advertising content must:
- Be factual, accurate, and not misleading
- Avoid exaggerated or guaranteed treatment claims
- Use approved medical terminology
- Clearly identify the licensed healthcare provider
- Avoid before-and-after visuals unless permitted
- Exclude unverified success rates or outcomes
Non-compliance may result in rejection, delays, or enforcement action.
Advertising Formats Requiring DHA Approval
DHA approval is mandatory across most advertising formats, including:
- Billboards and large-format hoardings
- Digital outdoor screens and LED displays
- Taxi, metro, and transit advertising
- Mall media and outdoor signage
- Event branding and healthcare exhibitions
Any healthcare message visible to the public requires prior DHA clearance.
DHA Approval Process (Overview)
While requirements vary by campaign, the general process includes:
- Submission of advertising creatives and copy
- Review against DHA healthcare advertising regulations
- Feedback, modification request, or approval
- Final clearance before campaign launch
Approval timelines depend on content complexity and regulatory review.
Why DHA Approval Matters for Outdoor Advertising
Healthcare advertising is highly sensitive and closely monitored. DHA approval ensures:
- Legal and regulatory compliance
- Protection from campaign takedowns or penalties
- Increased patient trust and credibility
- Eligibility for premium outdoor advertising locations
Advertising without DHA approval can lead to financial loss and reputational risk.
How OAU Supports DHA-Compliant Advertising
At OAU, we assist healthcare and wellness brands by:
- Reviewing creatives for DHA compliance readiness
- Coordinating with media owners on approval workflows
- Aligning outdoor formats with healthcare regulations
- Executing campaigns only after DHA clearance
Our experience with regulated healthcare advertising ensures smoother approvals and faster go-live timelines.
FAQ – Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Advertising Approval
What is DHA approval for advertising?
DHA approval is mandatory authorization for healthcare-related advertising in Dubai.
Which businesses require DHA approval?
Hospitals, clinics, doctors, dentists, cosmetic centers, and wellness providers licensed in Dubai.
Does outdoor advertising require DHA approval?
Yes. Billboards, digital screens, taxi ads, and mall media promoting healthcare require DHA approval.
Are cosmetic and aesthetic ads regulated?
Yes. Cosmetic and aesthetic procedure advertising requires DHA clearance.
Can medical claims be advertised freely?
No. All claims must be factual, verified, and approved by DHA.
Are before-and-after images allowed?
They are generally restricted and allowed only if DHA guidelines permit.
Does DHA approve pricing and offers?
Yes. Pricing and promotional offers are reviewed for transparency.
Can ads run without DHA approval?
No. Unauthorized healthcare ads may be removed or penalized.
How long does DHA approval take?
Timelines vary depending on content complexity and review requirements.
How can OAU help with DHA approvals?
OAU ensures healthcare advertising campaigns are executed only after securing DHA approval.