Considering a nursing career in the United Arab Emirates this year? You’re in the right place. With the UAE’s healthcare sector projected to grow steadily, driven by population growth, medical tourism, and public-private partnerships, the demand for skilled nurses is stronger than ever in 2025.
According to Alpen Capital, the UAE healthcare market is forecasted to reach over $10 billion by 2027, and nursing continues to be one of the most sought-after professions in this space. Whether you're an experienced RN or a nurse just starting your GCC journey, the opportunities are diverse and rewarding.
In this guide, we break down the top hospitals hiring nurses in the UAE in 2025, their locations, types, and why they’re preferred among healthcare professionals.
1. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Type: Private (part of Mubadala Health)
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is among the most prestigious medical institutions in the region, known for advanced care in cardiology, neurology, and critical care. They regularly hire nurses for ICU, surgical, and outpatient departments.
Benefits:
- High-tech facilities and structured training
- Strong expat nurse workforce
- International standards of practice
Read more: Top Job Platforms in the UAE
2. Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC)
Location: Abu Dhabi
Type: Government (SEHA + Mayo Clinic partnership)
SSMC is a joint venture between SEHA and the Mayo Clinic. As one of the largest hospitals in the UAE, it’s hiring in 2025 for emergency, trauma, oncology, and perioperative nurses.
Why nurses choose SSMC:
- Clinical excellence backed by Mayo Clinic
- Government employment benefits
- Multinational clinical teams
Also read: How to Find Jobs in the UAE
3. Mediclinic Middle East
Location: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain
Type: Private (part of Mediclinic International)
With over 20 facilities across the UAE, Mediclinic is a go-to employer for nurses looking to work in both inpatient and outpatient care.
Why nurses choose Mediclinic:
- International work culture
- Clear career progression
- Advanced technology and digital systems
See: Most In-Demand Jobs in the UAE
4. Rashid Hospital
Location: Dubai
Type: Government (Dubai Health)
Rashid Hospital is a trauma center and one of the busiest hospitals in the UAE. It's part of the Dubai Academic Health Corporation and is known for continuous hiring in emergency, surgery, and rehabilitation departments.
Why nurses choose Rashid Hospital:
- Exposure to high-acuity cases
- Government housing and benefits
- Strong professional development ecosystem
Learn more: UAE Visa Guide for Employees
5. NMC Healthcare
Location: Nationwide – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman
Type: Private
NMC has restructured and is actively hiring across its hospitals and clinics in 2025.
Why nurses choose NMC:
- Nationwide presence
- Varied departments and units
- Exposure to diverse patient demographics
Read next: Myths About Job Hunting in the UAE
6. King’s College Hospital London – UAE
Location: Dubai Hills, Marina, and Jumeirah
Type: Private (UK-affiliated)
A premium UK-affiliated hospital, King’s is best for nurses with UK or GCC experience.
Why nurses choose King’s:
- UK-standard training and protocols
- Clean, modern work environments
- Focus on specialty nursing
See more: Most In-Demand IT Jobs in KSA and UAE
7. LLH Hospitals (Burjeel Holdings)
Location: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain
Type: Private
Part of Burjeel Holdings, LLH Hospitals offer general and specialized care.
Why nurses choose LLH:
- Supportive HR and admin teams
- Affordable living options nearby
- Good work-life balance
Also read: Most In-Demand Construction Skills for Job Seekers in KSA and UAE
How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in UAE
Licensing and Exams
To practice as a nurse in the UAE, you’ll need:
✅ A valid license from one of these authorities:
- DHA (Dubai Health Authority)
- HAAD/DOH (Department of Health Abu Dhabi)
- MOH (Ministry of Health Sharjah and Northern Emirates)
✅ DataFlow verification of your credentials
✅ Prometric Exam (if applicable)
✅ At least 2 years of experience in most cases
Read more: UAE Licensing Guide for Nurses
Pro Tips for Getting Hired in the UAE
✅ Customize your CV to highlight specialties, license status, and years of experience
✅ Apply on verified portals such as Qureos and LinkedIn
✅ Prepare for interviews with situational and patient care questions
✅ Follow up politely with HR after a week
Final Thoughts
The UAE continues to attract qualified nurses seeking growth, international exposure, and better living standards. With top hospitals like Cleveland Clinic and SSMC expanding, and private sector investments booming, 2025 is an ideal year to make the move.
Plan ahead, get licensed, and apply strategically. Whether your preference is a high-tech private hospital or a stable government post, the UAE healthcare system has a place for you.