How to Get Married in the UAE: A Guide to Premarital Screening and Counseling

Marriage is a sacred bond that unites two people in love and commitment. However, before tying the knot, it is essential to ensure that both partners are healthy and compatible. Getting married is a big decision that involves many legal and social aspects. There are certain requirements and procedures that couples need to follow before they get married in the UAE. One of these is the premarital screening and counseling service, which aims to protect the health and well-being of the future spouses and their children. Premarital screening and counseling are not only mandatory but also beneficial for couples who want to get married in the UAE. They can help to ensure a healthy and happy marriage that lasts a lifetime. In this guide, we will explain what premarital screening and counseling is, why it is important, how to apply for it, where to get it in the UAE, and other relevant information.

What is Premarital Screening?

Premarital screening involves a medical examination testing for infectious and genetic diseases that can impact the couple’s health and the well-being of their future children. Alongside screening, premarital counseling provides guidance on various aspects of marriage, such as communication, expectations, roles, responsibilities, family planning, and finances. These counseling sessions help couples understand each other’s needs, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationship.

Why is Premarital Screening Mandatory in the UAE?

In the UAE, premarital screening is mandatory for Emirati and resident couples aiming to get married. This requirement serves several crucial purposes:

• Safeguarding Health: It ensures that potential infections or genetic diseases aren’t transmitted between partners, safeguarding their health and that of their future children.
• Preventing Diseases: Premarital screening aids in preventing the spread of communicable diseases like HIV, hepatitis, syphilis, and rubella. It also helps in reducing the incidence of inherited blood disorders like thalassemia and sickle cell anemia.
• Health Education: Premarital screening educates couples about reproductive health, pregnancy, family planning, and contraception, empowering them to make informed decisions.

Benefits of Premarital Screening in the UAE:

The advantages of premarital screening and counseling are vast:

• Disease Prevention: It prevents the transmission of infectious diseases that could harm the partners or their children. Therefore, if the couple is found to have a sexually transmitted infection, they can get treated before conceiving to prevent transmitting the infection to their partner or their child.
• Genetic Disorders: Detecting and treating genetic diseases ensures a better quality of life for the partners and their future family. Should the couple be diagnosed with a high risk of passing on a genetic disease to their children, they can receive genetic counseling and explore options such as prenatal diagnosis, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or adoption.
• Consanguinity Risk: Premarital Screening helps avoid consanguinity, reducing the likelihood of birth defects or genetic disorders in children.
• Vaccination Awareness: Couples are educated about the importance of vaccination and preventive care for themselves and their children. For example, if the couple is found to have a low immunity to certain diseases, they can get vaccinated before conceiving to protect themselves and their unborn child from infection and complications.
• Legal Requirement: Premarital screening provides couples with a necessary marriage fitness certificate for legal registration.
• Relationship Enhancement: Counseling sessions enhance compatibility and harmony by addressing concerns and misunderstandings, preparing couples for the challenges and joys of married life.

How to Apply for Premarital Screening and Counseling in the UAE?

To apply, individuals can visit the UAE government’s health facilities or access services at premarital screening and counseling centers located in various emirates like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman. Online applications are also available for convenience.

Cost of Premarital Screening and Counseling in the UAE:

The cost varies based on the chosen tests and services:

• On average, premarital screening for UAE and GCC Citizens is AED 100,
• While for Non-UAE Citizens, it is AED 250.

Terms and Conditions for Premarital Screening and Counseling in the UAE:

• The service is available to citizens and residents aged 18 and above. Applicants under 18 require a guardian.
• Reports are valid for three months and applicable only to the mentioned partners.
• Utmost confidentiality is maintained regarding test results.
• Premarital screening is not mandatory for civil marriages.
• Required documents and service fees are outlined in the service card.
• Both partners must visit the same health center for their premarital screening report, meeting the doctor individually.

Documents Required for Premarital Screening and Counseling in the UAE:

• Copy of passport or identity card for both partners.
• Two colored passport photos displaying the full face of each partner.
• Proof of payment for fees.
• Health or insurance card.

Dubai Court Marriage Assistance:

If you are planning to get married in Dubai, you may need the help of a marriage lawyer at Dubai court marriage to assist you with the pre-marital screening and other legal marriage requirements in the UAE. A marriage lawyer can provide you with the following services:

• Explain the legal procedures and documents required for your marriage, depending on your nationality and religion.
• Arrange for the pre-marital screening test at the Ministry of Health, which is mandatory for all couples who want to get married in the UAE.
• Register your marriage at the Dubai Courts or the relevant embassy or consulate, depending on your preference and eligibility.
• Advise you on the legal implications of your marriage, such as marital rights and obligations, inheritance, divorce, custody, etc.
• Draft and review any pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreements that you may wish to have.

A marriage lawyer at Dubai court marriage can make your wedding process easier and hassle-free by taking care of all the legal aspects for you. You can focus on celebrating your special day with your loved ones, without worrying about any legal issues.

Dubai court marriage is a leading law firm that specializes in marriage and family law in the UAE. We have a team of experienced and qualified lawyers who can handle any type of marriage case, whether it is a simple or complex one. If you are looking for a reliable and professional marriage lawyer in Dubai, contact us today and let us help you with your marriage needs.