Fetal Echocardiography in Abu Dhabi
Fetal Echocardiography in Abu Dhabi is a targeted, high-resolution ultrasound examination of the baby’s heart performed at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital. It is indicated for families with histories of heart defects, maternal diabetes, abnormal routine scans, or suspected fetal arrhythmias.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Expectant mothers requiring specialized, detailed evaluation of the baby’s heart structure and function.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians and pediatric cardiologists requiring detailed diagnostic mapping of suspected congenital heart defects (CHD).
Abnormal Screening
Patients with abnormal cardiac findings on routine scans, such as a suspected ventricular septal defect or abnormal chamber size.
Second Opinion
Parents seeking definitive confirmation of fetal cardiac health and guidance from pediatric cardiology experts.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
A comprehensive, dedicated cardiac scan lasting approximately 45 minutes.
Detailed explanation of the heart’s anatomy and any detected variations.
Development of a delivery plan coordinating pediatric cardiac care immediately after birth, if needed.
When urgent referral is needed
- Suspected hydrops fetalis (fluid accumulation in multiple fetal compartments).
- Persistent fetal tachycardia (>180 bpm) or bradycardia (<100 bpm) requiring medical management.
Where the service is available
Available at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi. We receive patients from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, and other emirates.
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.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
It is a specialized, detailed ultrasound scan of the baby’s heart, looking at the structure, function, and rhythm of the cardiac chambers and vessels.
It is ideally performed between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation, although it can be conducted earlier or later depending on clinical indications.
A routine scan checks the basic structure of the baby’s heart, whereas a fetal echo uses advanced imaging to systematically inspect every vessel, valve, and flow pattern.
We work closely with pediatric cardiologists and neonatal surgeons to prepare a structured delivery and postnatal care plan, ensuring the baby receives immediate treatment.
No, it uses safe diagnostic ultrasound waves (sound waves, not radiation) and carries no risk to the mother or baby.
It detects the vast majority of major congenital heart defects, though some minor defects (like small holes) or changes in circulation after birth may not be visible prenatally.
Getting Here & Access
Our Abu Dhabi hub is at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road), a central location with dedicated on-site parking and step-free access. It is an easy drive from Khalifa City, Al Reem Island, Al Reef, Yas Island, Saadiyat and Mussafah, and roughly 60–75 minutes from Dubai via the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road). Families travelling from Al Ain or the Western Region are seen by prior appointment so scans and consultations are completed in a single visit.
Insurance & Coverage
We work with major UAE insurers including Daman — including Thiqa and Daman Enhanced — as well as ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation requirements vary by plan, so our team confirms your eligibility and arranges any approvals before your appointment. Self-pay packages are also available.
Areas We Serve
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Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.