A first-of-its-kind fertility clinic in the northern emirates has opened in Ras Al Khaimah. Bourn Hall Fertility Centre is now receiving patients at the RAK Hospital.

Dr David Robertson, group medical director, Bourn Hall International, said "top-of-the-line IVF consultancy and intervention will be provided at the doorstep of RAK residents, who were earlier travelling to other emirates for fertility treatments".

"The clinic primarily provides IVF consultation, along with the medical management of genetic disorders such as genetic screening to avoid hereditary diseases."

Dr Sherif Ahmed Baathallah, specialist paediatrician at RAK Hospital, told Khaleej Times studies show that at least one in four couples in the UAE face fertility issues due to genetic disorders, poor sperm or egg quality, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome and other chronic diseases.

"As per the UAE Genetic Diseases Association (UAE GDA), there could be 400 types of genetic diseases prevalent in the UAE, including thalassemia, sickle-cell, cystic fibrosis and Down's syndrome."

Adil Al Zarooni, board member, Bourn Hall International, said genetic testing is the key to improving the quality of genes in a society "where consanguineous marriages are common, and identifying the faulty gene further helps in the success rate of IVF".

Zarooni told Khaleej Times that the UAE sees 11,000 to 12,000 IVF attempts at eight major centres annually. "It costs Dh25,000 to 30,000 each.

"Uninsured patients can get easy payment plans, too"

Dr Raza Siddiqui, CEO, Arabian Healthcare Group and executive director at RAK Hospital, said the centre was "a need of the hour" since many couples had to travel to Sharjah and Dubai for fertility services.

"The fertility clinic will also serve as a one-stop-solution for couples looking for treatment of chronic ailments to help increase the chances of fertility