The re-exam will be held at three centres in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi under enhanced security measures and revised procedures.
Nearly 1,800 to 1,900 students across the UAE are set to appear for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination on June 21, after India’s National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the original test held on May 3 over allegations of malpractice and a paper leak.
The re-exam will be conducted at three centres in the UAE — Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi — under enhanced security measures and revised procedures designed to protect the integrity of one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations.
For thousands of Indian expatriate families in the UAE, the retest means renewed preparation and anticipation, as students once again gear up for the gateway examination for medical courses such as MBBS, BDS and Ayurveda.
With more than 2.2 million candidates appearing worldwide, the UAE remains the largest overseas NEET testing hub.
Why is the re-examination being held?
The National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the May 3 examination after reports of alleged paper leaks surfaced. Investigators later found striking similarities between leaked question papers and the actual exam.
A multi-state probe was launched in India, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) taking over the case on May 12. Several arrests were made, including that of a chemistry professor from Pune allegedly linked to the examination process.
What changes are in place for the re-exam?
The exam duration has been increased from 180 to 195 minutes. The additional 15 minutes are intended to accommodate administrative procedures such as collecting signatures and distributing and collecting exam materials, ensuring candidates do not lose writing time.
Sharjah Indian School principal Pramod Mahajan said students will also benefit from additional rough-work sheets. “Two extra rough pages will now be made available to candidates at the beginning, right after the instruction page,” he said, adding that left-handed students will no longer need to reach to the back. “Total rough-work pages have been doubled from two to four.”
Mahajan also noted changes in candidate allocation. “In our centre, 55 more students have been allotted. NTA opened the link earlier and allowed candidates to change centres. Some may have returned from India due to the regional conflict, which is why the number has increased,” he said.
What has the Government of India said?
India’s Cabinet Secretary Dr TV Somanathan has warned of strict action against any attempt to compromise the examination.
“The full might and weight of law will fall on any person trying in any manner to distort, disrupt, or tamper with the integrity or smooth conduct of the re-examination,” a government statement said.
Why is NEET important for medical aspirants?
Mahajan said NEET remains the single gateway to medical education in India.
“Those who qualify are eligible for programmes such as MBBS, BDS and Ayurveda (BAMS), as well as systems like BHMS and BUMS. This is the fourth year NEET is being conducted in the UAE,” he said.
Held annually on the first Sunday of May, NEET is one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations.
NEET footprint in the UAE
The UAE hosts three main examination centres. The Indian High School in Dubai accommodates around 900 students, Sharjah Indian School over 700, and Abu Dhabi Indian School more than 300 candidates.
Together, they account for nearly 1,800 to 1,900 students, making the UAE the largest NEET testing destination outside India.
Security measures in place
Mahajan said multiple authorities are overseeing the process, including representatives from the Indian government, the Consulate General and the Embassy.
“Videography is conducted in every room, ensuring the candidate’s face, admit card and OMR sheet are clearly visible,” he said. Mock drills and verification exercises will also be carried out a day before the exam.
Exam structure and timing
The paper consists of 45 questions each in Physics and Chemistry, and 90 questions in Biology. The exam will be held from 12:30pm to 3:45pm UAE time, with results typically declared within a month.
School preparations and support
The Indian High Group of Schools, the largest NEET centre in the UAE, is preparing to host around 900 candidates. CEO Punit MK Vasu said extensive arrangements are made to ensure fairness and transparency.
“The introduction of a stringent two-tier frisking system reflects a zero-tolerance approach to malpractice,” he said.
He added that logistical support is also prioritised. “Our centre is easily accessible with ample parking to ease stress for candidates,” he said, noting that the Oud Metha campus is equipped with multiple examination halls.
Entry rules and exam-day guidelines
Candidates must report early, as entry gates will close at 12pm sharp. Late arrivals will not be permitted under any circumstances.
Students must carry their admit card, valid photo ID and photographs. Security screening will be mandatory.
Dress code and permitted items
The NTA advises candidates to wear light clothing to facilitate frisking. Full-sleeved attire is allowed but may require additional screening time.
Only essential items, such as transparent water bottles, are permitted inside the exam hall. Low-heeled footwear is recommended. Any permitted religious items must be declared in advance and will be inspected before entry.
