• Oman

    • Oman Lays Foundation Stone for National Genome and Human Data Center

    By on October 7, 2026

    Muscat:  The Ministry of Health today laid the foundation stone for the National Center for Genome and Human Data (Omani Genome) in the Wilayat of Seeb, Governorate of Muscat.

    The project, patronized by Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, Minister of Health, is being constructed at a cost exceeding RO4.2 million for construction works. It covers a total area of 10,625 square metres, with implementation scheduled to take nine months, followed by 45 days for equipment installation and preparation.

    The center represents the main infrastructure of the Omani Genome Programme and aims to establish a national genomic and genetic database that supports scientific research, precision medicine and the development of healthcare in the Sultanate of Oman.

    Professor Dr. Khalid bin Hamid Al-Rasadi, Professor at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Sultan Qaboos University and Supervisor of the Omani Genome Programme, said that the project embodies the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and will contribute to studying the genomic characteristics of Omani society and establishing a national reference database.

    He explained that the programme focuses on developing national capabilities in bioinformatics, statistical genetics, clinical genetics, biobanking and artificial intelligence, while advancing the use of genomic data in precision medicine, drug discovery and clinical research.

    The center will be equipped with high-throughput whole-genome sequencing technologies and a fully automated national biobank capable of preserving more than one million samples at temperatures reaching minus 80 degrees Celsius and using liquid nitrogen technology.

    It will also include a high-performance national data and computing center for storing and processing genomic data, with advanced cybersecurity and data-governance systems aimed at protecting the privacy and sovereignty of national genomic data.

    Dr. Ali bin Abdulhussain Al Lawati, Advisor to the Minister of Health for Engineering Affairs, said the center was designed in accordance with the latest standards for biological laboratory construction, taking into account biosafety, energy efficiency, smart building management and future expansion.

    The project comprises a main laboratory building covering 3,000 square metres and a 600-square-metre service building connected by a concrete service tunnel, in addition to an electrical station, parking facilities and external services.

    The project’s strategic objectives include advancing healthcare towards precision and personalized medicine, strengthening the prevention and early detection of genetic diseases, protecting national genomic data, investing in national capabilities and supporting Oman’s growing role in genomics research.

    The first phase of the Omani Genome Programme, covering 2025-2030, aims to sequence the complete genomes of 20,000 citizens representing the geographical and demographic diversity of Omani society. The programme is planned to expand through subsequent phases to reach 100,000 participants by 2040.

    The resulting national genomic reference database is expected to support precision healthcare by enabling preventive and therapeutic approaches based on individual genetic characteristics, improving the early detection of genetic and chronic diseases, and supporting premarital and newborn screening programmes.

    The center will also facilitate research into new therapeutic targets and medicines for genetic diseases, while creating opportunities for international scientific partnerships and emerging biotechnology industries in line with Oman Vision 2040.

    The programme places emphasis on developing young Omani specialists in genomics and bioinformatics in partnership with Sultan Qaboos University and other academic and research institutions.

    The Ministry of Health affirmed that the project will operate in accordance with high standards of privacy, security and ethical governance, with participation based on informed consent.

    The laying of the foundation stone marks the launch of construction of the center at the Central Public Health Laboratory campus, bringing together advanced laboratory testing, genome sequencing and large-scale genomic data analysis under one integrated national facility.

    The ceremony was attended by a number of officials, specialists, academics and experts in healthcare, scientific research and biodata.

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