The UAE Ministry of Health has announced that genetic testing will become mandatory for couples planning to marry, effective January 1, 2025. This initiative aims to safeguard public health by identifying and addressing infectious and hereditary diseases before marriage.
The program, conducted in partnership with organizations such as the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, Dubai Health Authority, and Emirates Health Services, will test for over 570 genetic mutations linked to hereditary conditions like cardiomyopathy, genetic epilepsy, spinal muscular atrophy, hearing loss, and cystic fibrosis.
The testing also seeks to establish a comprehensive national genetic information database to facilitate early detection and management of genetic disorders. This step is expected to reduce the incidence of genetic defects in children and curb the spread of hereditary diseases.
Currently, genetic testing is mandatory only for UAE nationals, though pre-marital health screening applies to both citizens and expatriates. The initiative builds on a pilot program launched in Abu Dhabi in 2022, where more than 800 couples were tested. Results revealed that 86% of couples were genetically compatible, while 14% required additional family planning guidance.
By expanding this program nationwide, the UAE aims to promote healthier family planning and improve public health outcomes.
