The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has launched the Newborn Genetic Screening Programme, a groundbreaking initiative that positions the emirate at the forefront of precision and preventative medicine.
As one of the world’s most comprehensive programmes, it uses whole genome sequencing to screen newborns for over 815 treatable childhood genetic conditions. These include metabolic disorders, immunodeficiencies, blood disorders, and rare diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy, many of which can be managed or cured through early intervention like gene therapy.
With parental consent, doctors collect and analyse cord blood samples at birth. This enables early detection of conditions not visible at birth but potentially harmful if left untreated. Results are shared within 21 days, and families of affected infants are referred to genetic counsellors and multidisciplinary specialists for timely care.
Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, emphasized:
“Healthcare begins long before symptoms appear. With science and technology, we can now act earlier than ever before.”
She highlighted that the initiative strengthens Abu Dhabi’s role as a global leader in proactive healthcare.
Dr Mohamed Al Ameri, Acting Director of the Genome and Biobank Division, noted the goal of expanding the programme across all maternity hospitals, moving healthcare from a one-size-fits-all model to a personalised and proactive approach.
In the first phase, screening is voluntary and offered at Kanad Hospital and Danat Al Emarat Hospital in collaboration with M42. The service is currently available to UAE Nationals and children of Emirati mothers born in Abu Dhabi, with plans to scale up across all maternity hospitals.
To ensure smooth implementation, DoH conducted workshops and training sessions with genetic specialists, paediatricians, neonatologists, obstetricians, midwives, and nurses across key hospitals, including Corniche, Danat Al Emarat, and Kanad.
This programme is part of the Emirati Genome Programme, alongside premarital screening and expanded genetic counselling services. Together, these initiatives aim to:
Reduce the burden of genetic diseases
Support informed reproductive decisions
Empower families with vital health insights
Foster a future where personalised, preventative healthcare is the norm