Muscat: The Ministry of Health (MoH) celebrated on Wednesday the laying of the foundation stone for the National Centre for Genome and Human Data (Oman Genome) in al Seeb, Muscat Governorate, under the patronage of Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health.
The project, which has a construction cost of more than RO4.2 million, will cover a total area of more than 10,000 square metres. Construction is expected to take nine months, followed by 45 days for equipment installation and preparations.
The National Centre for Genome and Human Data serves as the infrastructure for the Oman Genome Programme, which in its first phase (2025–2030) aims to sequence the complete genomes of 20,000 Omani citizens representing the country’s diverse communities and geographical regions.
The programme will expand in its subsequent phases to reach 100,000 participants by 2040, with the aim of establishing a reference genetic database for Omani society.
The database will support the development of precision and personalised medicine, enabling tailored preventive and treatment solutions based on an individual’s genetic makeup. It will also enhance the early detection of genetic and chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and cancer, strengthen premarital and newborn screening programmes, and provide decision-makers with accurate data and evidence to support future health planning.
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