Abu Dhabi DoH integrates genetic testing for Emiratis as key component for Premarital Screening Programme

The Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH) is set to make genetic testing a key element of its premarital screening program for all Emiratis planning to marry in the emirate from October 1, 2024. The move is aimed at empowering individuals to make informed health decisions that can positively impact their future families.

Building on the success of a pilot program launched in 2022, this initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to advancing healthcare through innovative genetic testing.

How does it work?

Starting in October 2024, premarital screening for Emiratis in Abu Dhabi will include comprehensive genetic testing. The test — available at 22 primary care centers across Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra, and Al Ain — examines 570 genes linked to over 840 genetic disorders. This process helps identify if couples carry shared genetic mutations that could be passed on to their children, leading to preventable genetic diseases.

Results are provided within 14 days, allowing couples ample time to consult healthcare professionals and genetic counselors to understand the risks and make informed decisions about their future.

Why does it matter?

Integrating genetic testing into premarital screening offers several critical benefits. According to data from the 2022 pilot phase, 86% of participating couples achieved genetic compatibility, while 14% required further medical intervention or family planning based on their results. This proactive approach helps reduce the incidence of severe genetic conditions — such as vision and hearing loss, developmental delays, and blood disorders — while enhancing public health by empowering couples with the information needed to make well-informed decisions.

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, emphasizes the importance of this integration: "The integration of genetic testing as part of the premarital screening programme is a proud milestone for Abu Dhabi. It positions the emirate at the forefront of leading healthcare destinations globally, harnessing the power of genomics and the latest technologies to promote informed decisions."

The context

The decision to incorporate genetic testing into Abu Dhabi's premarital screening program comes amid a broader global trend toward preventive and personalized healthcare. With a focus on proactive health management, Abu Dhabi aims to shift from traditional reactive approaches to a more holistic and informed health planning strategy.

His Excellency Dr. Ahmed AlKhazraji, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, highlights the program's role: "The Premarital Screening Programme plays a vital role in protecting the health of couples planning to marry by detecting infectious diseases and inherited blood disorders, while offering appropriate genetic counselling."

By leveraging its advanced healthcare infrastructure and the Emirati Genome Programme, Abu Dhabi is setting a global standard for health management. The initiative demonstrates a commitment to improving the health of future generations through early intervention, genetic counseling, and the integration of cutting-edge genomic science into everyday healthcare practices.