Dubai's Crown Prince underscores importance of Emirati Genome Programme

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A major campaign has been launched in Dubai to raise awareness on the Emirati Genome Programme.

The initiative, led by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) aims to highlight the importance for Emiratis to register with the Programme.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, underscored the importance of the Programme in further developing the healthcare system and consolidating the UAE’s leadership in the field of genomic studies, which seeks to understand genetics to reduce the prevalence of chronic and epidemic diseases.

He added that the Programme must be supported by various members of the community, including institutions, authorities, and individuals.

The Emirati Genome Programme is being executed in Dubai by G42 Healthcare, in collaboration with the DHA, which will provide Emiratis in the emirate with information on the strategic objectives of the Programme as well as how they can register for it.

It's an ambitious national study that aims to draw a comprehensive genetic map for UAE citizens to accelerate the development of advanced preventive and personalised healthcare solutions.

The project utilises the most advanced AI technologies for genome to identify genetic causes and predict susceptibility to diseases.

It aims to build the first de novo Emirati reference genome, based on the DNA of UAE nationals.

This will allow scientists, researchers and medical experts to understand the unique genetic make-up of Emiratis, which will help establish the foundation for innovation in health and wellness in the UAE.