Healthcare and Life Sciences
Genomics
The programme began in Abu Dhabi in 2019 and is led by the Department of Health with the health-technology company M42. It had 815,000 samples by April 2025. The UAE Reference Genome study is analysing more than 50,000 genomes.2,1
Clinical programmes built on the data include precision oncology, premarital and prenatal genetic screening, pharmacogenomics, and newborn screening for more than 815 conditions with results in 21 days.1,3
Regulators
Health facilities and professionals are licensed by the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Health Authority in Dubai, and the Ministry of Health and Prevention in the northern emirates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Emirati Genome Programme?
A national programme, started in Abu Dhabi in 2019, to sequence the genomes of UAE citizens for preventive and precision healthcare. It had more than 800,000 samples by April 2025, towards a goal of one million.
Sources
- Emirates Genome Council: Initiatives
- The National: 800,000 Emiratis contribute to the genome programme (April 2025)
- Department of Health, Abu Dhabi: Newborn genetic screening programme (August 2025)
Figures checked 21 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.