Question 1

Is the pre-marriage medical test mandatory in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every couple marrying in the UAE undergoes premarital screening before a marriage certificate is issued, under Federal Law No. 28 of 2005, regardless of nationality.

Question 2

How much does the pre-marriage medical test cost in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The official government fee is AED 100 for UAE and GCC citizens, and AED 250 for every other nationality, at a DHA-approved center. Private clinic packages run roughly AED 300 to AED 2,000 but don't replace the official test.

Question 3

Can I use a private lab result for my marriage certificate?

Accepted Answer

No. Only a test done at a DHA, Emirates Health Services, or SEHA-approved center is accepted for marriage registration, no matter how thorough a private lab's panel is.

Question 4

What does the pre-marriage medical test check for?

Accepted Answer

Blood group and Rh factor, a complete blood count, Hepatitis B and C, HIV, thalassemia and sickle cell trait, G6PD deficiency, and rubella immunity for women.

Question 5

How long does it take to get results?

Accepted Answer

Standard results usually land within about 5 working days. The genetic screening component for UAE nationals can take up to 10 working days.

Question 6

How long is the premarital screening certificate valid?

Accepted Answer

Typically around 3 months from the issue date. Book your Dubai Courts marriage appointment inside that window, or you'll need to repeat the test.

Question 7

Do UAE nationals and expats pay the same fee?

Accepted Answer

No. UAE and GCC citizens pay AED 100. Every other nationality pays AED 250 for the same official test.

Question 8

Can I book the test online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Both partners register through the DubaiNow app or the Dubai Health portal, with an Emirates ID cross-verification step between partners.