Emirati citizens must undergo genetic testing before marriage: MoHAP

The UAE announced all Emirati citizens will be required to undergo genetic testing before marriage, starting in January 2025. 

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) said the decision represents a pioneering shift in promoting the health of generations and providing a future in which the Emirati family enjoys sustainable wellness and a healthy quality of life.

The genetic test covers 570 genes associated with more than 840 medical conditions and will determine the likelihood of genetic mutations that may be passed down to children, allowing couples to make informed decisions before marriage. 

The Ministry explained that it is working in cooperation with the relevant authorities to implement genetic testing based on the National Genome Strategy, which aims to build an integrated national genetic data system. It seeks to assist in identifying genetic diseases to enable early medical intervention.

The programme operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Health Authority, the Emirates Health Services Corporation and Dubai Health Authority, in addition to partner academic, medical, and technological institutions.

The mandatory tests were based on the decision of the Emirates Genome Council, which was made during the annual meetings of the UAE government.