Oman Introduces Mandatory Premarital Health Screening to Protect Future Families

Oman has officially enforced mandatory premarital medical examinations for all citizens intending to marry, effective Thursday, January 1, 2026. The new requirement follows a royal decree and is part of a national effort to strengthen family health and reduce the spread of genetic and infectious diseases.

According to the Ministry of Health, the regulation applies to all Omanis planning to marry, even if one partner is non-Omani, and regardless of whether the marriage takes place inside or outside the Sultanate. Completion of the premarital health check has now become a basic condition for finalising a marriage contract.

Health authorities explained that the screening focuses on detecting hereditary blood disorders such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia, in addition to infectious diseases including hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS. The policy forms part of broader preventive health measures aimed at limiting the social and medical impact of genetic and infectious diseases within the community.

The ministry noted that early detection can significantly reduce the number of children born with hereditary blood disorders, while also easing health, psychological, social and financial pressures on families. It further helps prevent the transmission of infectious diseases between spouses and from mother to foetus, while allowing affected individuals to access appropriate preventive and treatment options.

Premarital screening has been available on a voluntary basis in Oman since 1999. However, participation stood at only 42 percent in 2025, a level the authorities said underscored the need to move toward mandatory implementation.

Officials emphasized that the requirement is limited to undergoing the medical examination and does not interfere with a couple’s decision to proceed with marriage. The objective, they said, is to ensure that both parties are fully informed about potential health implications for themselves and any future children. The process includes laboratory testing and medical counselling based on the results.

Screening services are provided at primary healthcare institutions across Oman. Citizens may attend any government health facility, while accredited private health institutions are also authorized to conduct the examinations. Couples have been advised to complete the screening well in advance of their marriage date, as some cases may require additional confirmatory tests.

Upon completion of all required tests and counselling sessions, a premarital medical examination certificate will be issued. The certificate will be electronically linked to the Notary Public platform of the Supreme Judicial Council, with a digital copy sent to both parties.

The Ministry of Health confirmed that all medical information will be treated with strict confidentiality and will not be shared with any external party. Authorities expressed hope that the initiative will help couples make informed decisions and contribute to healthier future generations.