The UAE has announced that all Emirati citizens planning to marry will be required to undergo mandatory genetic testing beginning January 2025. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), aims to enhance generational health and ensure sustainable wellness for Emirati families.
The genetic test will analyze 570 genes linked to over 840 medical conditions to identify potential genetic mutations that could be passed to offspring. This initiative empowers couples with critical information to make informed decisions before marriage.
According to MoHAP, the program is part of the National Genome Strategy, which focuses on establishing a comprehensive genetic data system to identify hereditary diseases and facilitate early medical interventions.
The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with entities such as the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Health Authority, and Emirates Health Services Corporation, along with academic and technological partners.
The decision, introduced by the Emirates Genome Council, was approved during the UAE government’s annual meetings as a progressive step toward improving public health and fostering healthier communities.
