Egg Freezing in the UAE vs Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know
Egg freezing has become one of the most talked-about fertility options in the region. For women thinking about preserving their fertility, the UAE and Saudi Arabia offer very different frameworks. In the UAE, the law now makes egg freezing accessible for most women, while in Saudi Arabia, it remains limited to medical reasons only. Understanding these differences can help you plan with clarity.
Egg Freezing in the UAE: A Progressive Step Forward
The UAE introduced Federal Law No. 7 of 2019, followed by detailed regulations in 2021, giving women the right to freeze eggs for both medical and social reasons. Importantly, this applies to married and unmarried women alike (UAE Government Portal).
Eggs can be stored for up to five years, with extensions possible through official approval. However, laws still prohibit egg and sperm donation as well as surrogacy. Any frozen eggs must be used personally for IVF, typically after marriage.
Clinics in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have reported growing demand, with more women choosing egg freezing as a proactive stepwhether to focus on career and personal milestones or simply to gain peace of mind for the future.
Egg Freezing in Saudi Arabia: Limited to Medical Needs
In Saudi Arabia, the rules are stricter. Egg freezing is only permitted for medical reasons, such as before undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments that may harm fertility. Elective or “social” egg freezing is not allowed.
Later use of frozen eggs must comply with family law in the Kingdom, which typically means within the context of marriage. For women facing illness, this is a crucial option, but for those looking to freeze eggs for personal or social reasons, the law does not currently provide that pathway.
Comparing the Two Systems
Country | Who Can Freeze Eggs? | Reasons Allowed | Storage Rules |
UAE | Married and unmarried women | Medical & social reasons | Up to 5 years (renewable) |
Saudi Arabia | Married women (case-specific) | Medical reasons only | No fixed limit, reviewed case by case |
How Much Does Egg Freezing Cost in the UAE?
The cost of egg freezing in the UAE typically ranges between AED 15,000–25,000 per cycle, depending on the clinic, medication, and additional services. With Ovasave, women can access a complete Egg Freezing Package at transparent pricing.
For those who prefer flexibility, Ovasave also offers the region’s first subscription plan—an installment option that spreads the cost over up to 3 years, with zero upfront payment. This makes egg freezing more accessible without the financial burden of paying everything at once.
What This Means if You’re Considering Egg Freezing
For women in the UAE, the law gives freedom and reassurance: you can freeze eggs early and preserve options without pressure. In Saudi Arabia, the law is focused strictly on protecting fertility in medical situations. Both frameworks have value, but the choices they allow are very different.
If you’re considering egg freezing, timing is key. Doctors often recommend freezing eggs between the ages 25–35, when egg quality is typically highest.
FAQs About Egg Freezing in the UAE
Is there an age limit to freeze my eggs?
There’s no strict legal age limit in the UAE, but fertility specialists generally recommend freezing eggs before the mid- to late-30s. The younger the eggs, the higher the quality and the better the chances of success later on. Some clinics may set their own medical guidelines, so it’s best to consult directly.
Can I transport my eggs to another clinic or another country?
Yes, eggs can be transported between licensed clinics in the UAE or shipped abroad, provided the receiving country and clinic are authorized to accept them. Specialized cryo-shipping services ensure eggs remain preserved at the correct temperature during transfer.
Can I use my eggs with my partner if we are not married?
No. Under UAE law, embryos can only be created and used within marriage. Even if you have frozen eggs as an unmarried woman, they can only be fertilized and implanted once you are legally married.
What happens to my eggs if I never use them?
Eggs are stored for up to five years, with the option of renewal if approved. If you decide not to use them or do not renew storage, the eggs are thawed and disposed of by the clinic according to regulations.
Takeaway
Egg freezing is a deeply personal choice, but one that’s now more accessible than ever in the UAE. Whether you’re considering it for medical or social reasons, the law provides flexibility and the option to plan on your own terms. With Ovasave’s transparent packages and first-of-its-kind installment plan, the process is easier and more affordable than before.
→ Learn more about Ovasave’s Egg Freezing Packages & Plans
