The UAE will introduce mandatory genetic testing for all Emiratis planning to marry from early January. Getty Images
The UAE will introduce mandatory genetic testing for all Emiratis planning to marry from early January. Getty Images

UAE to introduce mandatory premarital genetic testing for Emiratis from January



The UAE is to introduce mandatory premarital genetic testing for all Emirati couples from January in support of a national drive to "safeguard the health of future generations", it was announced on Wednesday.

The screening strategy was initially rolled out in Abu Dhabi in October to bolster efforts to detect and prevent genetic conditions and will now be extended across the Emirates.

The programme will be led by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, with the support of Abu Dhabi's Department of Health, the Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Health Services, and Dubai Health, alongside academic, medical, and technological partners, state news agency Wam said.

The launch of the scheme comes on the directives of the Emirates Genome Council, approved during the recent UAE government annual meetings. The ministry said the screening policy would come into effect in "early January", but not provide a specific date.

The health ministry said its aim was to create an integrated database to proactively identify genetic diseases among Emiratis and allow for early medical intervention.

Under the plans, couples due to marry will undergo tests to identify potential genetic mutations they may carry, which could be passed on to their future children and lead to preventable genetic diseases.

The testing covers 570 genes associated with more than 840 medical conditions, the ministry said, and will help citizens to make informed decisions based on their health status when planning to start families.

Enhancing public health

Abu Dhabi launched a pilot phase of the project in 2022, in which more than 800 couples have taken part since 2022, before making the screening programme mandatory from October 1.

Data from that trial found 86 per cent achieved genetic compatibility and 14 per cent required additional intervention and family planning based on genetic results.

Medical experts said at the time that the screening strategy was key to protecting the health and well-being of UAE citizens.

"The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi has integrated genetic testing as a core element of its premarital screening programme, aiming to reduce the incidence of inherited diseases in the Emirate," said Dr Ayman El-Hattab, a consultant in clinical genetics at Burjeel Medical City, following the announcement of Abu Dhabi's genetic testing policy.

"By screening individuals before marriage, this initiative enhances the ability to identify a broader range of genetic conditions beyond just inherited blood disorders, helping couples make informed decisions about their future. This expanded genetic screening is expected to significantly impact public health by lowering the burden of hereditary diseases."

Dr Fahed Al Marzooqi, deputy chief operating officer of Abu Dhabi technology-enabled healthcare company M42, said genetic testing was critical to identify diseases more prevalent among the Emirati population.

“In the UAE, this is especially important due to the high prevalence of genetic disorders within the Emirati population, partly attributed to the region’s history of consanguineous marriages.

“Understanding genetic risks allows healthcare providers to take proactive measures, improving patient outcomes and reducing the long-term burden of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes," he said.

Our legal consultant

Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais

Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
The Sand Castle

Director: Matty Brown

Stars: Nadine Labaki, Ziad Bakri, Zain Al Rafeea, Riman Al Rafeea

Rating: 2.5/5

The specs

Engine: 3-litre twin-turbo V6

Power: 400hp

Torque: 475Nm

Transmission: 9-speed automatic

Price: From Dh215,900

On sale: Now

COMPANY PROFILE
Name: ARDH Collective
Based: Dubai
Founders: Alhaan Ahmed, Alyina Ahmed and Maximo Tettamanzi
Sector: Sustainability
Total funding: Self funded
Number of employees: 4
Dubai Bling season three

Cast: Loujain Adada, Zeina Khoury, Farhana Bodi, Ebraheem Al Samadi, Mona Kattan, and couples Safa & Fahad Siddiqui and DJ Bliss & Danya Mohammed 

Rating: 1/5

Iftar programme at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Established in 1998, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding was created with a vision to teach residents about the traditions and customs of the UAE. Its motto is ‘open doors, open minds’. All year-round, visitors can sign up for a traditional Emirati breakfast, lunch or dinner meal, as well as a range of walking tours, including ones to sites such as the Jumeirah Mosque or Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Every year during Ramadan, an iftar programme is rolled out. This allows guests to break their fast with the centre’s presenters, visit a nearby mosque and observe their guides while they pray. These events last for about two hours and are open to the public, or can be booked for a private event.

Until the end of Ramadan, the iftar events take place from 7pm until 9pm, from Saturday to Thursday. Advanced booking is required.

For more details, email openminds@cultures.ae or visit www.cultures.ae

 

Updated: December 26, 2024, 5:40 AM