Diagnostic Amniocentesis in the UAE
Amniocentesis in the UAE obtains a small amniotic-fluid sample from 15 completed weeks under continuous ultrasound guidance at Mediclinic MFM Units (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain Hubs). The laboratory test selected determines which chromosomal, genetic, or infectious question can be answered and the limitations of the result.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Mothers at 15+ weeks who need diagnostic testing for a specific chromosomal, genetic, or infectious question.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians referring patients with high-risk genetic screens, structural abnormalities, or suspected fetal infections.
Abnormal Screening
Patients with high-risk NIPT, elevated combined screening risk, or specific ultrasound anomalies.
Second Opinion
Parents wanting to discuss safety profiles, diagnostic details, and procedure alternatives with MFM experts.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
Counseling session to review risks, benefits, and diagnostic pathways.
Sterile preparation of the abdomen and discussion of analgesia according to clinical practice and patient preference.
Insertion of a fine needle under direct, continuous ultrasound visualization.
Post-procedure rest and clinical guidance on recovery.
When urgent referral is needed
- Leakage of amniotic fluid or vaginal bleeding.
- Severe cramping or pelvic pain.
- Fever or chills 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
Fellowship-trained, internationally recognized consultants offering evidence-based precision care.
Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim
Head of Unit, Consultant Maternal Fetal MedicineConsultant in Maternal-Fetal Medicine in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi with more than 25 years of experience, University of Toronto fellowship training, and Arab and Saudi Board certification in OBGYN.
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Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG
Consultant in Fetal & Maternal MedicineOver three decades of clinical excellence, serving as Chair of Fetal Medicine at Corniche Hospital from 2014-2025.
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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG
Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology, Consultant Maternal Fetal MedicineFormer Department Chair of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Corniche Hospital with immense experience leading tertiary maternity services.
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Dr. Najwa Mohamed El Fky
Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine SpecialistConsultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist with extensive experience in high-risk obstetrics, prenatal diagnosis, and obstetric ultrasound.
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Dr. Bernard Nasr
Consultant Obstetrics/Gynecology, Maternal Fetal MedicineFrench-trained MFM expert proficient in invasive therapeutic procedures and multiple pregnancy complications.
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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, Associate ProfessorInternationally trained specialist with 25+ years of clinical experience, renowned for advanced fetal neurology and cardiology.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
Most patients report only mild pressure or discomfort, similar to a blood test. It takes less than two minutes to perform.
The additional procedure-related risk is low but not zero. Estimates vary with the clinical population, operator, technique, and study design; your consultant will discuss the most relevant estimate for your situation.
Amniocentesis is generally performed from 15 completed weeks when there is an appropriate clinical indication.
Turnaround depends on the laboratory and the analysis selected. The expected time for rapid aneuploidy testing, microarray, targeted testing, or exome sequencing is confirmed during counselling.
No. Amniocentesis provides a sample; the selected laboratory test answers a defined question and has specific limitations. Ultrasound and other assessments remain necessary for structural and developmental conditions.
You will receive individualized aftercare instructions and advice about symptoms that require urgent medical review. Routine activity guidance may vary with the clinical circumstances.
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 (about 60–75 minutes on the E11), 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
Book a Clinical Consultation
Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.