Job Description
Mental health services in Abu Dhabi have experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years, reflecting a strong national commitment to improving psychological wellbeing across the lifespan. Driven by strategic government initiatives, increased investment, and evolving public awareness, the Emirate has expanded access to high-quality, evidence-based mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. Abu Dhabi continues to develop modern, multidisciplinary services aligned with international best practice, creating a dynamic and supportive environment for mental health professionals to contribute to innovative service delivery and positive patient outcomes.
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist to join a multidisciplinary mental health service in Abu Dhabi.
The successful candidate will provide specialist psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for children and adolescents. The role contributes to service development, clinical governance, and education in line with international best practice and Department of Health (DOH) Abu Dhabi standards.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Responsibilities
Provide specialist psychiatric assessment and management for children and adolescents with a wide range of mental health disorders, including neurodevelopmental, emotional, behavioural, and severe mental illnesses
Conduct comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and formulate evidence-based treatment plans
Prescribe and monitor psychotropic medications in line with best practice and local regulations
Deliver care in outpatient, inpatient, community, and/or emergency settings as required
Provide consultation and liaison support to paediatric, educational, and community services
Engage families and carers in assessment and treatment planning
Multidisciplinary & Collaborative Work
Work closely with psychologists, nurses, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and social workers
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, case conferences, and care planning
Collaborate with schools, safeguarding agencies, and other external stakeholders
Governance, Quality & Safety
Participate in clinical governance, audit, and quality improvement initiatives
Ensure compliance with DOH Abu Dhabi regulations, ethical standards, and safeguarding policies
Contribute to risk assessment, management, and child protection processes
Teaching, Supervision & Leadership
Provide supervision and mentoring to junior medical staff and allied health professionals
Contribute to teaching, training, and continuous professional development activities
Support service development, pathway design, and policy implementation
Essential Qualifications & Experience
Medical degree recognised by DOH Abu Dhabi
Specialist/Consultant qualification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, such as:
CCT/CESR (UK)
Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (Ireland)
Board Certification (e.g. American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry)
Equivalent recognised European, Australian, Canadian, or New Zealand qualification
Minimum 3 to 5 years’ post-specialist experience as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist (preferred for consultant level)
Eligibility for DOH Abu Dhabi Consultant licensure
Excellent communication skills in English (Arabic is an advantage but not essential)
Desirable Skills & Experience
Experience working in multicultural and international healthcare settings
Expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, ASD), mood disorders, trauma, and complex presentations
Experience in service development or leadership roles
Familiarity with safeguarding and child protection frameworks
