UAE Urges Emiratis to Submit DNA Samples for Genome Programme

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has called upon all Emiratis to participate in the Emirati Genome Programme.

The program aims to understand the nature of the genetic diseases prevalent among the UAE population, implement personalized medicine for Emiratis to provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, strengthen the prevention of genetic and chronic diseases in the coming generations.

The pilot phase of the Emirati Genome Programme was successfully concluded with G42 Healthcare experts building the first de novo Emirati reference genome based on DNA samples from 1,000 UAE nationals, using cutting-edge next generation and third generation sequencing with artificial intelligence.

The success of the Emirati Genome Programme depends heavily on the voluntary participation of UAE nationals across the country.

The more participants the Emirati Genome Programme has, the more comprehensive the resulting genetic data becomes, creating a rich base for scientists and medical professionals to build the Emirati reference genome.

Where to Volunteer

• Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)

• Biogenix Labs in Masdar City

• Al Towayya in Al Ain
• NMC Royal Hospital in Khalifa City
• Bareen International Hospital
• NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Ain
• NMC Royal Medical Centre - Abu Dhabi
• NMC Royal Women’s Hospital.

Participation is voluntary, and participants would be required to go through an informed consent process before joining the program.

Details of the Emirati Genome Program, including complete participation information, can be found at www.emiratigenomeprogram.ae  or by calling 800 UAE GENOME.