UAE Mandates Genetic Testing for Engaged Couples

Genetic Testing Becomes Mandatory for Emirati Couples before ​Marriage

Starting today, January 1st,⁤ 2025, genetic testing will be a mandatory part of the premarital screening program for all Emirati‌ couples planning to tie the knot. This groundbreaking initiative, announced by the Ministry of ​Health and Prevention (MoHAP) [[1](https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-pre-marital-genetic-testing-to-be-mandatory-for-all-citizens-from-january-2025)], follows a decision by the Emirates Genome Council and reflects the UAE’s commitment to a healthier future generation. This new policy signifies a major advancement in the UAE’s healthcare sector, aimed at​ safeguarding the well-being of future Emirati families and ensuring a high quality of life. ​ It positions the UAE as a global leader in the field of genetic disease prevention and reproductive medicine. “This decision represents ​a paradigm shift ⁢in the country’s healthcare sector,” emphasized the Ministry. “It aims ⁢to safeguard the ‌health of future generations while ⁢ensuring Emirati families‍ benefit from long-term wellness and a⁢ high quality of life.” The move also strengthens partnerships between medical institutions both within the UAE⁤ and internationally, contributing to global advancements in genomic sciences. Working closely with relevant authorities,‌ MoHAP has ensured the necessary infrastructure, including ⁣medical staff,​ specialized expertise, guidelines, and technical capabilities, are in place to⁢ implement ​this nationwide ​program. This‍ is in line⁢ with‌ the National Genome Strategy, which aims to create an integrated national genetic database to proactively identify ‌genetic diseases among Emiratis, facilitating⁤ early medical intervention.

Empowering Couples with Knowledge

As part of the ⁣premarital screening process, ​genetic testing empowers couples to make informed decisions about family planning. By⁣ identifying potential genetic ⁤mutations that could be passed⁤ down to ⁢future​ children, it allows couples to understand their risk of having children with preventable genetic diseases. this comprehensive ‍testing covers over 570 ‍genes associated with⁤ more ⁣than 840 medical conditions, providing a detailed assessment of potential risks. “This⁣ measure helps couples assess their⁤ risk of having children with genetic diseases,enabling them to make informed decisions​ when planning a family,” explains MoHAP.

A Collaborative effort

The program​ is a collaborative‌ effort between the Ministry of​ Health and Prevention,⁤ the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Health Services,‌ Dubai Health, and a range of academic, medical, and technological partners.
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## Archyde Interview: Genetic Testing for Emirati Couples



**Archyde:** Welcome back to Archyde, where we discuss the latest news shaping our world. Today, we’re diving into a groundbreaking progress in the UAE’s healthcare sector: mandatory genetic testing for Emirati couples before marriage. Joining us is [Alex Reed Name], a [Alex Reed Title] with expertise in [Alex Reed’s relevant expertise]. Welcome to the show.



**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thanks for having me.



**Archyde:** As of January 1st, 2025, all Emiratis planning to marry must undergo genetic testing as part of the premarital screening program. This was announced by the Ministry of Health and prevention (MoHAP) [[1](https://www.gulftoday.ae/news/2025/01/01/uae-starts-implementing-genetic-testing-for-citizens-for-premarital-examinations)]. Can you elaborate on the reasons behind this meaningful policy shift?



**[Alex Reed Name]:**



[Provide a detailed description of the reasons behind the mandatory genetic testing. This could include details about the prevalence of genetic diseases in the UAE, the benefits of early detection, and the government’s commitment to ensuring the health of future generations.]



**Archyde:** This policy marks a major advancement in preventative healthcare, but it’s also a complex issue with ethical considerations.



What conversations are necessary to ensure its ethical implementation?



**[Alex Reed Name]:**



[Discusstheethicalconsiderationssurroundingmandatorygenetictestingsuchasprivacyconcernsinformedconsentandpotentialfordiscrimination[Discusstheethicalconsiderationssurroundingmandatorygenetictestingsuchasprivacyconcernsinformedconsentandpotentialfordiscrimination



Emphasize the importance of open dialog and engagement with the public to address these concerns.]



**Archyde:** The UAE is positioned at the forefront of this initiative globally. What does this mean for the country’s healthcare system and its role in advancing genetic medicine?



**[Alex Reed Name]:**



[Explain how this policy positions the UAE as a leader in genomic medicine. Discuss the potential benefits for research, innovation, and the development of personalized medicine approaches.]



**Archyde:** Thank you for sharing your insights on this crucial topic, [Alex Reed Name]. This is a landmark development that will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare in the UAE and beyond.



**[Alex Reed Name]:** My pleasure.



**Archyde:** We encourage our viewers to stay tuned as we continue to cover this developing story.