Yes, cousin marriage is legal in the UAE under specific conditions, governed by federal laws and Islamic Sharia principles. The UAE does not explicitly ban cousin marriages but imposes restrictions to prevent genetic risks and uphold social norms. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and local health authorities monitor such unions through mandatory premarital medical screenings.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in United Arab Emirates
- Premarital Screening Requirement: Couples must undergo genetic testing under MoHAP’s Premarital Screening Program to assess hereditary disease risks, including thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. Failure to comply may invalidate marriage applications.
- Sharia Compliance: In emirates like Sharjah and Dubai, marriages must align with Islamic jurisprudence, which permits cousin marriages but discourages them if genetic risks are identified. Local Sharia courts may reject applications if health screenings reveal high-risk conditions.
- Emirate-Specific Variations: Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health enforces stricter oversight, requiring additional counseling for high-risk couples. Dubai’s Community Development Authority mandates cultural sensitivity reviews for non-Muslim expatriates seeking cousin marriages.