Medical Store Licensing

Medical Store Licensing in the UAE

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) oversees the regulation and licensing of medical stores and pharmacies to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Establishing a medical store in the UAE requires adherence to strict guidelines and processes designed to maintain the quality of healthcare products and services provided to the community.

Eligibility Requirements for Licensing

To qualify for a medical store license, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Qualified Pharmacist: The store must employ a qualified pharmacist licensed by MOHAP.

• Registered Business Entity: The applicant must have a registered business in the UAE that aligns with the healthcare and pharmaceutical sector.

• Physical Location: The medical store must have a dedicated physical location approved by the relevant health authority.

• Safety and Storage Standards: The premises must meet specific requirements for storage, hygiene, and safety to ensure the quality and integrity of pharmaceuticals.

Types of Medical Store Licenses

• Retail Pharmacy License: Allows for the sale of pharmaceutical products directly to consumers.

• Wholesale Distribution License: Permits the wholesale distribution of pharmaceuticals to other stores and healthcare facilities.

• Warehouse License: For storage and distribution of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals.

Application Process

• Initial Approval: Submit an application with all required documents, including business registration, pharmacist license, location lease agreement, and a store layout plan.

• Inspection: MOHAP or the local health authority will conduct an on-site inspection to ensure compliance with safety and storage standards.

• Approval and Licensing: Upon passing the inspection, the license will be granted, allowing the store to operate legally.

Required Documentation

Applicants must provide:

• A copy of the trade license

• Proof of qualification for the licensed pharmacist

• Store lease or ownership agreement

• Detailed floor plan of the facility

• Proof of storage compliance (temperature control, humidity, etc.)

• Health and safety compliance certification

Compliance and Renewal

Licensed medical stores are required to comply with the UAE's health and safety regulations continuously. Regular inspections may occur to verify ongoing adherence. Licenses are generally renewed annually, and renewal applications should be submitted in advance, along with updated documents and fees.

Fees

• Initial Licensing Fee: Fees vary based on store type and location.

• Annual Renewal Fee: Subject to MOHAP guidelines and any updates.

Key Points for Compliance

• Product Traceability: Ensure that all medical products are traceable and sourced from approved suppliers.

• Pharmacist Presence: A licensed pharmacist must be present during operational hours.

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of inventory, prescriptions, and customer information as required by MOHAP.

Contact Information

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) regulates medical store licensing in the UAE to ensure safe and effective access to pharmaceuticals. Licensing is required for all retail pharmacies, wholesale distributors, and medical supply warehouses.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Employ a licensed pharmacist

• Registered business in healthcare or pharmaceuticals

• Approved physical location meeting safety standards

Application Process:

1. Submit an application with required documents (business license, pharmacist qualification, lease, and layout).

2. Undergo an on-site inspection.

3. Obtain approval and license issuance.