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Pharmacist Salary in Dubai in 2025: By Experience, Education & Cities

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Pharmacist Salary in Dubai

Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations for healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, due to its rapidly growing healthcare sector, tax-free income, and high standard of living. If you’re considering a career as a pharmacist in Dubai, understanding the latest salary trends, job opportunities, and factors affecting pay is essential.

How much does a pharmacist earn in Dubai in 2025? According to recent reports, the average salary of a pharmacist in Dubai ranges between AED 4,000 to AED 10,000 per month, depending on qualifications, experience, and work setting. Specialized roles, such as clinical pharmacists, can earn significantly higher, sometimes exceeding AED 23,000 per month.

In this article, we will provide the most up-to-date salary details for pharmacists in Dubai, including salary breakdowns by job role, experience level, and sector (hospital, retail, clinical). We’ll also explore the key factors influencing pharmacist salaries, compare salaries across different emirates, and offer practical tips to increase your earning potential in the UAE.

How Much Does a Pharmacist Earn in Dubai?

The average annual pay for a pharmacist working in Dubai is approximately AED 225,700; however, this can vary greatly, with the lowest average salary being approximately AED 107,580 and the highest average salary being AED 351,200.

Pharmacist earnings in the United Arab Emirates range from AED 56,000 to AED 120,000 annually, according to PayScale. Remember that geography, education, and experience all affect salary. Experienced pharmacists make a lot more money than just newly graduated ones.

Pharmacists typically make about AED 65,000 a year, while pharmacy technicians make about AED 43,000. With more than 1,500 pharmacies in operation, the majority of them prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree, however, some may only require a high school certificate or GED.

Average Annual SalaryAED 225,700
Average Monthly SalaryAED 18,808
Lowest Annual SalaryAED 107,580
Lowest Monthly SalaryAED 8,965
Highest Annual SalaryAED 351,200
Highest Monthly SalaryAED 29,266

Also Read: How To Get Internships in Dubai (UAE) 2025

Pharmacist Salary in Dubai Based on Experience Level

Most entry-level pharmacists work in retail pharmacies, assisting with prescriptions and customer service. Salaries may be on the lower end for those without DHA (Dubai Health Authority) licensing.

A pharmacist with a few years of experience can expect salary increases after gaining expertise and securing a DHA, MOH, or HAAD license. Those working in hospitals or clinical settings tend to earn higher salaries compared to retail pharmacists. Pharmacists who specialize in areas such as oncology, cardiology, or clinical research can command better pay.

Pharmacists in the UAE typically receive an average salary increase of 11% every 17 months, which is higher than the national average of 8% for all professions over the same period. Experience significantly influences a pharmacist’s earning potential in Dubai. Below is an in-depth analysis of salary ranges corresponding to various experience levels:

Experience Average Salary Per Month
0-2 Years AED 164,200
2-5 Years AED 233,900
5-10 Years AED 309,800
10-15 Yerrs AED 378,800
15- 20 Years AED 403,100
20+ Years AED 440,200

Pharmacist Salary in Dubai Based on Education Level

Holders of a bachelor’s degree typically occupy entry-level positions in retail pharmacies or assist in hospital settings. A master’s degree often leads to roles with increased responsibilities, such as clinical pharmacy positions or supervisory roles.

A PharmD is considered the highest level of education for pharmacists and is associated with advanced clinical roles and leadership positions. Pharmacists with a doctorate often engage in research, policy development, or academic roles, contributing to the advancement of the profession.

To determine how much more you can make at each education level, we analyzed the earnings of workers in the same job and career level but with varying degrees of education in our research.

Level of Education Average Salary Per Year
Bachelor’s Degree AED 261,300
Master’s Degree AED 372,600

Here you can check the Part-Time Jobs in Dubai for Students 

Pharmacist Salary in Dubai Based on Organisations

The type of employing organization significantly impacts pharmacist salaries in Dubai. While retail pharmacists earn around AED 4,109 per month, those in healthcare institutions and specialized roles like clinical or consulting pharmacists can expect higher compensation.

Pharmacists at DOCIB HEALTH CARE in Dubai earn an average of AED 4,881 per month, which is 22% above the national average.

Here’s an overview of how different organizational settings influence pharmacist compensation as of 2025:

Company Name Average Salary Per Year
Life PharmacyAED 60,000
Digital PharmacistAED 65,000
BootsAED 96,000
Aster PharmacyAED 71,000
BinSina PharmacyAED 84,000
NMC HealthcareAED 69,000
DOCIB HealthcareAED 59,000
Adam Vital HospitalAED 72,000
Marina PharmacyAED 49,000
Mercato Family PharmacyAED 95,000
Al Garhoud Private HospitalAED 60,000
Pharmacist’s LetterAED 71,000
AstraZenecaAED 52,000

Pharmacist Salary in Dubai Based on Cities 

In Dubai, top cities like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, and Fujairah are offering the highest average salary for pharmacists, potentially due to the presence of upscale healthcare facilities and a higher cost of living.

Pharmacists in Al Barsha, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman earn approximately 14.2% more than the city average, potentially due to the presence of upscale healthcare facilities and a higher cost of living.

The salary range can vary based on experience, the type of pharmacy (hospital or retail), and other factors such as housing and transportation allowances.

Cities Average salary Per Year
Abu Dhabi AED 313,700
Al Ain AED 294,700
Fujairah AED 294,700
Ajman AED 312,400
Ras Al Khaimah AED 299,500
Um Al Quiwain AED 279,400
Sharjah AED 332,500

Pharmacist Salary in Dubai Based on Positions

In Dubai, a pharmacist’s position significantly influences their salary, with specialized roles such as clinical and consulting pharmacists earning substantially more than standard or entry-level positions.

Professionals aiming for higher compensation should consider advancing their careers into specialized areas within the pharmaceutical field.

Jobs Profile Average Salary Per Year
Hospital PharmacistAED 120,000
Retail PharmacistAED 54,000
Staff PharmacistAED 66,000
Assistant Pharmacy DirectorAED 394,300
Clinical ConsultantAED 330,700
BiotechnologistAED 301,600
Clinical PharmacistAED 341,153
Clinical ProgrammerAED 164,200
Nuclear PharmacistAED 367,200

In 2025, the salary for pharmacists in Dubai and across the UAE continues to reflect the growing demand for healthcare services. Larger cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer higher salaries due to a higher cost of living and greater opportunities in both public and private healthcare sectors.

However, even in smaller emirates like Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, pharmacists can enjoy competitive compensation with additional benefits such as housing, transport, and medical coverage, making the UAE an attractive destination for healthcare professionals.

Here is detailed information about Work and Study in Dubai

FAQs 

Q1: What is the average salary of a Pharmacist in Dubai?

In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, a pharmacist makes an average of AED 11,500 a month. In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, a pharmacist’s supplementary financial remuneration ranges from AED 2,300 to AED 12,000, with an average of AED 6,000.

Q2: How much does a Pharmacist make a year?

Here is the average pay of a Pharmacist based on the report we get from different sources: 
₹19.6 lakhs per year (approximately USD 23,300) based on 6figr.com
₹20 lakhs per year (approximately USD 23,800) based on Payscale
₹260,000 per year (approximately USD 3,100) based on Talent.com

Q3: What is the Pharmacist’s average salary by country?

Here is a list of a few Top countries with the highest Pharmacist salary
The average salary of pharmacists in the United States is USD 133,014.
The average salary of a pharmacist in Canada is CAD 106,000
The average salary of a pharmacist in Australia is AUD 88,843
The average salary of a pharmacist in Switzerland is $83,600 – $127,000

Q4: Can I become a pharmacist in another country?

It usually depends on the curriculum of the university where the pharmacist got their degree. Besides the recognition of the diploma, the guest country may also ask for other criteria, like knowledge of the language, specific national regulations (prescription-only medicines, reimbursement, etc.), reliability, etc.

Q5: Which Arab country is best for a pharmacist job?

United Arab Emirates, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait are some of the best countries to work as a pharmacist. On the other hand, the best arab city to work as a pharmacist is Dubai.

Q6: How do I pass the DHA exam for a pharmacist?

You need to clear the DHA exam to work as a pharmacist. The DHA consists of both clinical and theoretical pharmacology questions. You need to prepare topics on drug interactions, patient safety and pharmacy laws, among others. Use the available study materials like online courses, review books, and practice questions.

This was all about the Survey of Pharmacist Salary in Dubai in 2025: By Experience, Education, and Cities. For more articles on salaries follow the Jobs Abroad page on the Leverage Edu site. 

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13 comments
  1. what is the procedure to get a job in dubai for female who have completed master in pharmacy and fresher who is also quick learmer, ready to adopt things quickly, hard worker. please guide

    1. Hey Rabeena Farheen,

      Completing Master in Pharmacy would prepare you for several jobs in Dubai. Some of the jobs you can apply for are: Trainee Pharmacist, Pharmacist, Senior Product Specialist – Biologics, Store Manager, medial representative amount others. However, getting a degree is just a basic qualification for these jobs. To get hired, you need to meet the specific requirements of the employer. For example, to become a pharmacists in Dubai, apart from the degree, you need to have at least 2 years of experience of working in a hospital as a pharmacist, excellent knowledge of UAE laws, and need to have a DHA license. You must also have good command of the English language. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable. For further information, consult the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.

        1. Hey Vaseem Ahamd,

          If you are interested in further education abroad, you can connect with us. Our phone number is: 1800 57 2000.

  2. hi I am post graduate in pharmaceutics and having 4 year industrial experience in quality assurance and 3 years experience in hospital pharmacy ..what’s my scope in dubai

    1. Hi Gurbinder, Your postgraduate degree in pharmaceutics and experience in quality assurance and hospital pharmacy, you’ve got a great foundation for a career in Dubai. Dubai is a major healthcare hub, so there are plenty of opportunities for pharmacists like you. You could work in a hospital pharmacy, a retail pharmacy, or even in the pharmaceutical industry. Your experience in quality assurance would be especially valuable in roles like regulatory affairs or clinical research.

      Just make sure to research the licensing requirements and visa process for working in Dubai. Also, networking with other pharmacists in the area can help you learn about job opportunities and get your foot in the door.

      Good luck with your job search!

  3. I am D.Pharmacist looking for service for suitable educational qualification. As Hospital pharmacist, Retail pharmacist, Medical Transcriptionist or any other

    1. Hi Joshi,
      To work as a Hospital Pharmacist, Retail Pharmacist, or Medical Transcriptionist in Dubai, you’ll need specific educational qualifications and often, licensing from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). For Pharmacist Roles (Hospital and Retail) and Medical Transcriptionists you must fulfill fil, the education requirements which are mentioned below:

      1. Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) Degree: This is the minimum educational requirement for a pharmacist role in Dubai.
      2. DHA License: You must obtain a DHA license to practice pharmacy in Dubai. This involves passing the DHA licensing exam and meeting specific eligibility criteria.
      3. Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is essential for effective communication with patients, healthcare professionals, and regulatory bodies also must have good knowledge of Medical Terminology.

  4. hi, I have 20 years experience as a registered pharmacist in New Zealand worked mainly in community pharmacy. I’m Arab so fluent in Arabic and speak English too as it’s main language in NZ. What are the job opportunities and salary please if you could provide some details would be thankful.

    1. Hi S.Hassan,

      With your 20 years of working experience as a registered pharmacist in New Zealand, plus fluency in both Arabic and English, you’re well-positioned for several types of opportunities. Here’s an overview of what to expect, including job roles and salary ranges:

      1. Hospital Pharmacist: Average Salary In New Zealand typically between NZD 80,000 to NZD 100,000 per year
      2. Community Pharmacy Manager or Lead Pharmacist: Community pharmacy managers in New Zealand generally earn between NZD 85,000 to NZD 120,000 annually.
      3. Consultant Pharmacist: Consultants might earn between NZD 90,000 to NZD 130,000 per year.
      4. Medical Transcriptionist or Medical Writer (with a Pharmacy Focus): Medical transcriptionists in New Zealand typically earn around NZD 55,000 to NZD 70,000.
      5. Pharmacy Educator or Trainer: Educators in pharmacy can earn from NZD 70,000 up to NZD 110,000.

      New Zealand has a high demand for experienced pharmacists, particularly in more rural areas or regions with fewer healthcare services. Bilingual abilities like yours can be a huge asset, especially in community pharmacies serving diverse populations. If you are interested in reading more opportunities, you can click on Jobs Abroad and read more about different professions with their salary range.

  5. what is the procedure for working as a pharmacist in Dubai. I have completed my Bachelor in pharmacy and I’m fresher

    1. Hi Ashok,

      To work as a pharmacist in Dubai, you need to pass the DHA (Dubai Health Authority) Licensing Exam. Start by creating an account on the DHA website, upload your documents (Bachelor’s degree, internship proof, passport, etc.), and pay the required fees. Once you pass the exam, you’ll get your DHA license, allowing you to work in pharmacies or hospitals in Dubai. After securing a job, your employer will handle your work visa. Since you’re a fresher, focus on exam prep and UAE pharmacy regulations. Good luck!

  1. what is the procedure to get a job in dubai for female who have completed master in pharmacy and fresher who is also quick learmer, ready to adopt things quickly, hard worker. please guide

    1. Hey Rabeena Farheen,

      Completing Master in Pharmacy would prepare you for several jobs in Dubai. Some of the jobs you can apply for are: Trainee Pharmacist, Pharmacist, Senior Product Specialist – Biologics, Store Manager, medial representative amount others. However, getting a degree is just a basic qualification for these jobs. To get hired, you need to meet the specific requirements of the employer. For example, to become a pharmacists in Dubai, apart from the degree, you need to have at least 2 years of experience of working in a hospital as a pharmacist, excellent knowledge of UAE laws, and need to have a DHA license. You must also have good command of the English language. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable. For further information, consult the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.

        1. Hey Vaseem Ahamd,

          If you are interested in further education abroad, you can connect with us. Our phone number is: 1800 57 2000.