The Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH), in alignment with the Emirati Genome Council’s vision to realise a national shift towards personalised, precision healthcare, has launched the Newborn Genetic Screening Programme. The initiative translates Abu Dhabi’s commitment to pioneering genomics-driven medicine that enables early detection and diagnosis, tailored interventions, and improved health outcomes for future generations.
The Newborn Genetic Screening Programme offers whole genome sequencing to screen more than 815 treatable childhood genetic conditions, making it one of the most comprehensive genetic screening programmes for newborns in the world.
Leveraging the power of genomics and artificial intelligence (AI), the first phase of the programme has been implemented as a voluntary option at Kanad Hospital and Danat Al Emarat Hospital, in partnership with M42. The initiative is planned to be expanded across all maternity hospitals to screen UAE Nationals and children of Emirati mothers born in the emirate, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s leadership in preventive healthcare and precision medicine.
By collecting and testing cord blood samples at birth, with parental consent, healthcare providers can identify conditions that may not be apparent at birth but could significantly affect a child’s health if treatment is delayed. The conditions screened under the programme include metabolic disorders, immunodeficiencies, hematologic conditions, and rare diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy, which is treatable by gene therapy.
Her Excellency Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “Healthcare begins long before symptoms appear, and today, empowered by science and technology, we can act earlier than ever before.
“This programme reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to leveraging innovation to serve our community, starting from the first days of life. Through early detection, personalised care, and strategic foresight, we are building a future of healthier generations and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in proactive, precision healthcare.”
Dr. Mohamed Al Ameri, Acting Director of Genome and Biobank Division, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi said: “As we work to integrate genomics into our preventative healthcare infrastructure, we aim to expand this initiative to all maternity hospitals in the emirate, demonstrating how genomics can reshape healthcare, shifting from a one-size-fits-all model to a precise, proactive, and personalised approach that improves patient outcomes.”
To support the rollout of the programme, DoH conducted a workshop to review the gene panel and patient journey with specialists from stakeholders across Abu Dhabi.
DoH also collaborated with M42 to train 16 paediatricians and neonatologists across three maternity hospitals, Corniche Hospital, Danat Al Emarat and Kanad Hospital, on genetic counselling practices and the importance of newborn genetic screening.
Additionally, comprehensive workshops were conducted for obstetricians, midwives, nurses and technical teams from these facilities.
Results are reported within 21 days, and parents will receive genetic counselling and be referred to multidisciplinary specialists if any actionable findings are identified.
Early detection through this enhanced screening programme allows for timely medical intervention and aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to integrate genomics into various aspects of family health, including premarital screening and genetic counselling, thus creating a comprehensive, family-centred care ecosystem. These initiatives aim to reduce the prevalence of genetic diseases, inform reproductive choices, facilitate access to early intervention, and empower families with vital health information, fostering a future where personalised, preventative healthcare is the standard.
The Newborn Genetic Screening Programme is one of several initiatives that have been made possible by the Emirati Genome Programme, such as the Premarital Screening Programme, harnessing the power of genomics and latest technologies to promote informed decisions. These efforts pave the way forward for more precise and effective treatments, ensuring the long-term health and wellbeing of future generations of Emiratis.
