The UAE’s National Genome Strategy, unveiled in the presence of President Sheikh Mohamed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, is a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to develop cutting-edge science, especially in the field of Arab populations. The 10-year genome strategy aims to build a genetic map of the population by collecting blood samples and DNA cheek swabs from more than one million Emirati citizens. Currently, over 400,000 Emiratis have volunteered to participate, demonstrating their willingness to support the project’s mission of developing personalized and preventive medicine.
The National Genome Strategy offers an opportunity to bridge the gap in knowledge about genetic disorders prevalent in the Arab world. The Centre for Arab Genomic Studies was established in 2003 with the aim of reducing the burden of genetic disorders in the region. Since then, it has built up an open-access database of bibliographic data on human genetic variants associated with inherited or heritable phenotypes in Arabs. However, there is still a data gap, which the National Genome Strategy can help close. A research paper by the Centre for Arab Genomic Studies recently described 1,365 gene mutations reported in Emiratis, more than half of which are classified as disease-causing. Almost a fifth of these mutations have not been reported in international genetic databases.
Examining small populations can deliver critical information, such as the sparsely populated Orkney Islands off the north-east coast of Scotland where a recent study identified a gene mutation that increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The manageable size of the UAE population will enable scientists and doctors to identify health trends and risks and help them understand genetic disorders such as sickle cell anaemia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency and fragile X syndrome, which are endemic in Arab populations.
The 10-year genome strategy in the UAE will go hand in hand with the country’s adoption of artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. Upon completion, it will not only benefit the Emirati population but also provide a rich source of data for those researching the health needs of Arab populations. This scientific achievement is a rapid success story, with people voluntarily sharing information that will benefit future generations. Genetic mapping helps us understand where we come from, but it also offers us a clear path to a healthier future.
