Dubai Municipality has unveiled the ViruGenetics Lab at Dubai Central Laboratory, making the UAE the first country in the region to establish a dedicated genomic testing facility for detecting foodborne viruses.
The lab uses digital PCR technology, one of the most advanced molecular analysis tools available, to identify viral pathogens including norovirus and hepatitis A and E viruses with high precision. It is equipped to process up to 60 samples per day, with surge capacity of 100 samples during emergencies, and delivers results at record turnaround times to support faster, data-driven decisions.
The facility handles complex food categories such as dairy products, seafood, juices and fresh produce, maintaining accuracy even when analytical inhibitors are present. All testing is carried out under ISO/IEC 17025 standards, aligning with international best practices in food safety and laboratory calibration.
Eng. Hind Mahmoud Ahmed, Director of Dubai Central Laboratory Department, described the launch as part of a wider initiative to build specialised laboratories powered by cutting-edge global technologies.
"This milestone underscores our dedication to consolidating Dubai's position as a global leader in food safety and health oversight,"
she said.
Beyond diagnostics, the ViruGenetics Lab functions as a scientific platform for collaboration with universities and research centres. It aims to develop a national database of foodborne viruses and provide authorities with precise genetic data to enable proactive, science-based public health responses.
The launch reinforces Dubai Municipality's broader commitment to elevating quality of life in the emirate through innovation in laboratory services and globally recognised testing standards.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
