If you’re preparing to work or live in a GCC country, you’ll encounter two major medical examinations: GAMCA medical and GDRFA medical. Many people confuse them, but they are not the same. They serve different purposes, are taken at different stages, and are required by different countries.
In this guide, we explain:
- What GAMCA medical is
- What GDRFA medical is
- Key differences
- Who needs which test
- Validity and strictness
- Step-by-step purpose of each
- FAQs
This guide helps applicants going to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain.
What Is GAMCA Medical?
GAMCA (GCC-Approved Medical Centers Association), also known as Wafid, handles mandatory pre-employment medical exams for foreign workers traveling to GCC countries.
Countries that Require GAMCA Medical
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Bahrain
- UAE (in certain employment categories only)
Who Requires GAMCA Medical?
- Workers applying for GCC employment visas
- Domestic workers
- Skilled and unskilled labor
- Anyone required by their employer
What GAMCA Tests Include
- HIV test
- Hepatitis B & C
- Syphilis
- Malaria
- TB chest X-ray
- Urine test
- Physical exam
- Vital signs
- Medical history check
Where GAMCA Tests Are Done
In your home country only — NOT in the GCC.
How to Book a GAMCA Appointment
You can register online through:
https://gamcamedicalappointments.com/appointment/
This generates your GAMCA Medical Registration Slip and assigns you to a GAMCA Approved Medical Examination Centre.
What Is GDRFA Medical?
GDRFA stands for General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, a UAE immigration authority.
The GDRFA medical test is required for:
- UAE residency visas
- UAE work visa processing
- Visa renewals
- Family visas
- Investor and partner visas
Who Requires GDRFA Medical?
Anyone applying for UAE residency from inside the UAE.
Where GDRFA Tests Are Done
Only inside the UAE, at:
- Dubai Health Authority (DHA) clinics
- SEHA hospitals
- Emirates Health Services facilities
What GDRFA Tests Include
- HIV test
- TB test (X-ray)
- Hepatitis test (certain categories)
- Additional tests depending on visa type
Unlike GAMCA, you cannot do GDRFA medical in your home country.
Key Differences Between GAMCA and GDRFA Medical Exams
Below is a simple comparison:
1. Purpose
GAMCA
✔ Pre-employment screening for GCC countries
✔ Done BEFORE visa stamping
GDRFA
✔ Residency screening inside UAE
✔ Done AFTER arriving in UAE
2. Location
GAMCA
Done in home country only.
GDRFA
Done inside the UAE only.
3. Who Needs It
GAMCA
Workers going to Saudi, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and some UAE job categories.
GDRFA
Anyone applying for UAE residency—work visa holders, family visas, investors, renewals.
4. Test Strictness
GAMCA
Much stricter.
Covers more diseases and has higher chances of “UNFIT.”
GDRFA
Mainly checks HIV, TB, and Hepatitis.
Less strict than GAMCA.
5. Validity Period
GAMCA:
90 days (3 months)
GDRFA:
Valid until next residency renewal (1–3 years)
6. Can You Need Both Tests?
For UAE Work Visa applicants (from India, Pakistan, etc.):
✔ Yes — GAMCA before travel
✔ GDRFA after reaching UAE
For UAE Family Visa applicants:
✔ Only GDRFA
For Saudi, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait:
✔ Only GAMCA
Do GAMCA and GDRFA Accept Each Other’s Results?
No.
They are separate systems:
- GAMCA → For GCC entry
- GDRFA → For UAE residency
One does not replace the other.
Schedule your GAMCA medical appointment today!
FAQs
No. GAMCA is for GCC employment; GDRFA is for UAE residency.
No. Only in UAE-approved centers.
It depends on your job category. Some require GAMCA before travel.
No. Only GDRFA.
You receive an UNFIT status and cannot receive a GCC work visa.
Yes, GAMCA is significantly stricter and checks more medical conditions.
Conclusion
GAMCA and GDRFA medical exams serve different purposes:
- GAMCA = For GCC employment before visa stamping
- GDRFA = For UAE residency after arrival
If you need to book your GAMCA Medical Appointment, generate your Wafid/GAMCA Medical Registration Slip, or find approved GAMCA Medical Centers, visit:
GAMCA Medical Appointments
https://gamcamedicalappointments.com/appointment/
