From January 1, 2026, Oman has made premarital medical examinations compulsory for all Omani citizens before marriage. This change comes under Royal Decree No. 111/2025, issued by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. The Ministry of Health is enforcing the rule to promote public health and family wellbeing. Marriage cannot proceed without valid medical screening certificates from both parties. This applies regardless of whether the marriage happens inside or outside Oman, or if one partner is non-Omani. The tests check for hereditary blood disorders like sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, and infectious diseases including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS. The Ministry said this measure will reduce the birth of children with genetic disorders, ease pressures on families, health systems, and blood banks, and prevent spreading infections between spouses or from mother to child. Premarital screening has been optional since 1999, but only 42% participated in 2025. The low number pushed the government to mandate testing. The Ministry added, "The requirement does not interfere with a couple’s choice to marry but ensures both parties are fully informed through testing and medical counselling." Exams are available at government and accredited private health centers. Results remain confidential and are linked electronically to the Supreme Judicial Council’s Notary Public platform. Ignoring this law risks imprisonment from 10 days to six months, and fines between 100 and 1,000 Omani riyals.