According to Dr Saidi, 60% of couples end their engagements after receiving their results, which he says is a sign of success. "The high percentage of failed engagements due to medical risks shows that the society has become more educated and aware of the importance of physical health," he says. "This will also save money for the family and the country." In January, a Riyadh-based genetic researcher said Saudi Arabia has one of the highest rates of genetic diseases in the world. Pre-marital health tests aim to prevent marriages between close relatives - a longstanding practice in Saudi Arabia - which can lead to serious medical problems in offspring.