UAE makes premarital genetic testing mandatory

Dubai: The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has announced that, starting in early January 2025, genetic testing will be a mandatory component of the premarital screening program for all Emiratis planning to marry.

By incorporating genetic testing into the premarital process, the UAE hopes to promote long-term wellness and improve the quality of life for Emirati families.

The initiative also underscores the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global leader in healthcare innovation, particularly in the fields of genetic disease prevention and reproductive medicine.

The Ministry has emphasised that this initiative is the result of close collaboration among various governmental and health authorities across the nation.

MoHAP has already provided the necessary medical staff, expertise, guidelines, and infrastructure to support the implementation of genetic testing. The initiative is aligned with the UAE’s National Genome Strategy, which aims to create a comprehensive national genetic database to proactively identify genetic diseases among Emiratis, facilitating early diagnosis and treatment.

Through these efforts, the UAE is working to harness the power of genomic science to improve public health, not only within the country but also in collaboration with international medical institutions. This approach is expected to contribute significantly to sustainable healthcare development, in line with the UAE Centennial Vision 2071.

The genetic testing program is being implemented through a collaborative effort between MoHAP and key health authorities, including the Department of Health — Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Health Services, and Dubai Health.

By integrating genetic testing into the premarital process, the UAE is setting a precedent for using advanced healthcare technologies to foster healthier, more informed communities. This transformative shift in healthcare practices is poised to bring significant benefits to the Emirati population, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for generations to come.