The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) has announced new procedures and controls for permitted abortion cases, aimed at safeguarding pregnant women’s lives, ensuring their safety, and enhancing oversight of healthcare facilities.
Abortion in the UAE is allowed under specific conditions and regulations, according to Mohap. A dedicated committee will be established in each health authority to meticulously review abortion requests. This committee will include an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist, a psychiatry specialist, and a representative from the Public Prosecution. The committee may also consult third-party experts when necessary.
According to a Khaleej Times report, the ministry emphasized that abortions must be performed in authorized healthcare facilities by licensed physicians. The procedure should not result in medical complications that endanger the woman’s life, and the pregnancy duration at the time of the abortion should not exceed 120 days.
According to Mohap, abortion is permitted if continuing the pregnancy threatens the pregnant woman’s life or if the fetus has severe deformities that will impact its health and life. These cases must be supported by a medical report from a specialized medical committee. Several other conditions for permissible abortion are also stipulated, provided the gestational period does not exceed 120 days.
Licensed healthcare facilities must perform abortions and ensure the procedure is conducted by a specialist obstetrician-gynaecologist. These facilities are also responsible for detailing the rights and responsibilities of the pregnant woman, explaining necessary healthcare requirements before and after the procedure, and maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of the woman’s personal data.
Additionally, health authorities are tasked with monitoring and supervising the activities of licensed healthcare facilities to ensure compliance with the regulations.
Earlier this year, the UAE law on abortion was amended to ease consent rules, making it easier for medical professionals to carry out the procedure if the mother’s life is in grave danger. In emergency cases requiring immediate surgical intervention, consent is not a condition, according to the revised law.