The recent announcement by the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) regarding the regulations and procedures for abortion cases has been positively received by the medical community and women in the country. This move comes as a relief for many women like M.K, who have faced high-risk pregnancies and had to travel abroad for safe abortion services in the past. The new regulations stipulate the formation of a committee in each health authority to assess abortion requests, comprising of specialists in obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and a representative from the Public Prosecution.
Dr. Dani Hanna, head of department and consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology at Canadian Specialist Hospital Dubai, and Dr. Kishan Pakkal, CEO at International Modern Hospital, applauded the government for prioritizing women’s health and safety with this new rule. Dr. Jasbir G. Chhatwal, a specialist in obstetrics & gynecology at Zulekha Hospital, emphasized how this policy will be a life-saver for families dealing with heartbreaking situations such as anomalous pregnancies or risks to the mother’s life. Dr. Amal Aburawi, consultant obstetrics & gynecology at Saudi German Hospital Dubai, highlighted the reduction of physical and mental risks for women seeking abortion under the new law.
The decision-making process for abortion requests will involve a dedicated committee consisting of medical specialists and a representative from the Public Prosecution. Legal consultant Ghouson Bashir praised the new regulations for aligning with international standards and protecting individual rights, especially in critical circumstances for pregnant women. However, there is a need for further clarification at the emirate level, as James Clarke, Of Counsel at BSA Law, pointed out the devolvement of reproductive health rules to individual emirates and the importance of navigating these regulations carefully.
Overall, the announcement by Mohap regarding abortion regulations in the UAE has been widely welcomed as a progressive step towards ensuring women’s healthcare rights and providing access to safe abortion services within the country. This move will not only reduce the physical and mental risks associated with unsafe abortions but also provide much-needed support to women facing challenging pregnancy situations. It is essential for both medical professionals and legal experts to collaborate effectively in implementing these regulations at both federal and emirate levels to ensure the well-being and rights of women seeking abortion services in the UAE.
