Mandatory Genetic Testing For Emiratis To Begin In January 2025 As Part Of Premarital Screening Initiative

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) will introduce mandatory genetic testing for Emiratis planning to marry, starting January 2025. This initiative is part of the premarital screening programme and follows a decision by the Emirates Genome Council, approved during the UAE government's annual meetings. The aim is to protect future generations' health and ensure long-term wellness for Emirati families.

Genetic testing as part of premarital screening helps identify potential genetic mutations in couples. These mutations could be passed to their children, leading to preventable genetic diseases. The tests cover 570 genes linked to over 840 medical conditions, allowing couples to assess risks and make informed family planning decisions.

This initiative positions the UAE's health sector as a global leader in genetic disease prevention and reproductive medicine solutions. By expanding genomic sciences, it strengthens partnerships between local and international medical institutions. This effort enhances research capabilities and healthcare development within the country.

The Ministry emphasised that this decision marks a significant change in healthcare, aiming for sustainable development and improved quality of life. This aligns with the UAE Centennial Vision 2071, focusing on future technologies to drive progress in the healthcare sector.

MoHAP is collaborating closely with relevant authorities as a unified national team to implement genetic testing for marrying Emiratis. It has already provided medical staff, specialised expertise, guidelines, and technical infrastructure in line with the National Genome Strategy. This strategy aims to create an integrated national genetic database for early identification of genetic diseases among Emiratis.

The programme operates under MoHAP's umbrella, working with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Health Services, Dubai Health, and various academic, medical, and technological partners. These collaborations ensure comprehensive support for implementing the genetic testing initiative nationwide.

The Ministry highlighted that this decision represents a major shift in healthcare by using genomic sciences to enhance wellness. It aims to safeguard future generations' health while ensuring Emirati families enjoy long-term well-being and high-quality lives.

This move also supports developing healthcare cadres within the UAE by enhancing research capabilities in genetic disease prevention. It strengthens partnerships between local medical institutions and international counterparts for better healthcare solutions.

By introducing mandatory genetic testing as part of premarital screening, MoHAP aims to proactively identify genetic diseases among Emiratis. This facilitates early medical intervention and helps couples make informed decisions about family planning based on potential risks identified through these tests.

With inputs from WAM