Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis (Amniocentesis & CVS) in the UAE
Diagnostic amniocentesis and Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) are available at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital (Abu Dhabi) and Mediclinic Al Jowhara Hospital (Al Ain). The result depends on the laboratory test selected, the clinical question, sample quality, and interpretation; no single test provides a complete genomic map.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Mothers needing definitive, diagnostic answers regarding their baby’s chromosomal or genetic makeup.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians referring for high-risk NIPT, increased nuchal translucency, or structural abnormalities.
Abnormal Screening
Patients with positive prenatal screening tests or fetal physical anomalies on scan.
Second Opinion
Parents seeking expert consultation on the safety, risks, and accuracy of invasive diagnostic tests.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
Pre-procedure counseling explaining the technique, risks, and genetic pathways.
Sterile preparation of the abdomen; needle insertion under direct, continuous ultrasound visualization (taking <2 minutes).
Extraction of placental villi or amniotic fluid.
Post-procedure rest and recovery instructions.
When urgent referral is needed
- Leakage of amniotic fluid or vaginal bleeding.
- Severe cramping or abdominal pain.
- Fever, chills, or feeling unwell post-procedure.
Where the service is available
Available across Mediclinic MFM hubs in Abu Dhabi (Airport Road Hospital) and Al Ain (Al Jowhara Hospital), with referral pathways coordinating care for patients nationwide.
Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM
Specialists Available
Explore each doctor’s qualifications, clinical interests and verified practice location.
Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim
Head of Unit · Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineToronto fellowship training and more than 25 years of experience, bringing together fetal diagnosis, maternal medicine and coordinated care.
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Dr. Leanne Bricker
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineExtensive experience in fetal therapy and complex multiple pregnancy, alongside international contributions to research and clinical guidance.
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Dr. Werner Diehl
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineOur team’s most experienced fetal therapist, bringing broad expertise across fetal therapies, advanced fetal surgery and complex twin pregnancy.
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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said
Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine & Obstetrics and GynecologyMore than 28 years of clinical and leadership experience, with particular interests in maternal health and prevention of preterm birth.
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Dr. Gareth James Waring
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineExtensive fetal therapy and surgery experience, alongside expertise in fetal heart conditions and prevention of preterm birth.
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Dr. Bernard Nasr
Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology · Fetal MedicineTraining in France and Spain, with clinical interests in fetal therapy, growth problems and complex twin pregnancy.
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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega
Specialist Maternal–Fetal Medicine · Associate ProfessorMore than 25 years of clinical experience, combining advanced fetal imaging with academic teaching and clinical leadership.
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Dr. Najwa Ibrahim
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineCare for complex pregnancies, with interests in advanced ultrasound, prenatal screening, fetal growth and placental health.
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Dr. Howaida Khair
Consultant Obstetrics and GynecologyA seasoned obstetrician and gynecologist with a special interest in fetal medicine, prenatal ultrasound and counselling.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
CVS tests placental tissue between 11-14 weeks, whereas amniocentesis samples amniotic fluid from 15 weeks onward. Both are highly accurate diagnostic tests.
No, the needle is inserted under continuous, direct ultrasound visualization away from the fetus, ensuring maximum safety.
Invasive diagnostic procedures are usually covered when there is a clear medical indication (such as abnormal screening). We help obtain approvals.
No, the needle used is very fine, and the procedure is so quick (under 2 minutes) that local anesthesia is not necessary and may cause more discomfort.
CVS and amniocentesis obtain placental tissue or amniotic fluid for diagnostic testing. The certainty and scope of the result depend on the laboratory test selected, the condition being investigated, sample quality, and interpretation.
Rest quietly at home for 24 to 48 hours, avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous physical activity, and resume normal routines after.
Getting Here & Access
Our two hubs cover the country: Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital in Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic Al Jowhara Hospital in Al Ain. Patients from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and the Northern Emirates typically attend the Abu Dhabi hub, while Al Ain and Eastern Region families are seen locally. Referrals are coordinated so travel is minimised and, wherever possible, imaging, counselling and any procedure are grouped into as few visits as possible.
Insurance & Coverage
Across both hubs we work with major UAE insurers including Daman (Thiqa and Enhanced), ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation vary by plan and emirate, so our team confirms eligibility and arranges approvals before you travel. Self-pay packages are available nationwide.
Areas We Serve
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Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.