Mandatory Premarital Genetic Testing in UAE to Begin from 2025

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Premarital Genetic Testing in UAE

Genetic testing in UAE will become a mandatory premarital screening program for all citizens planning to marry from January 2025. Previously, premarital medical examinations were mandatory for both locals and expatriates, but genetic testing in UAE was optional. The decision made by the Emirates Genome Council was approved during the UAE government’s annual meetings.

Genetic testing can identify over 570 genetic mutations linked to hereditary conditions. This includes cardiomyopathy, genetic epilepsy, spinal muscular atrophy, hearing loss, cystic fibrosis, and other chronic diseases that are potentially challenging to treat. Through the genetic testing initiative, the UAE government aims to establish a comprehensive national genetic database. The reasoning behind this move is to proactively identify genetic disorders and enable early medical intervention. Furthermore, the decision highlights a pivotal shift in the healthcare sector of the UAE which strives to leverage advanced technologies to promote sustainable development and improve quality of life, aligning with the UAE Centennial Vision 2071.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention also emphasized its commitment to working with all stakeholders to implement genetic testing for Emiratis preparing to marry. The ministry has already provided specialized expertise, medical staff, and technical infrastructure in line with the National Genome Strategy.

Read: The UAE’s Rise to Prominence in Medical Tourism

UAE Healthcare Strategy Focuses on AI and Genomics

Earlier this year, the UAE government announced a new health strategy concentrating on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Genomics. Both AI and Genomics could facilitate predictive healthcare by identifying potential risks. Similarly, with the help of AI and Genomics, doctors can treat genetic risks early, making healthcare more tailored to each individual’s genetic profile. 

The UAE Healthcare Sector Growth

Initiatives like genetic testing will further accelerate the growth and development of the UAE’s healthcare sector. In 2023, the healthcare sector in the UAE saw significant growth, with AED 4.8 billion  ($1.3 billion) allocated to healthcare and community protection services. The UAE’s healthcare market is projected to reach AED 112.6 billion ($30.7 billion) by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% starting from 2023.  These projections underscore the UAE’s strong commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure backed by AI and genomics.

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