Muscat – The Ministry of Health on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the National Centre for Genomics and Human Data (Omani Genome) in Seeb, Muscat at a construction cost exceeding RO4.2mn.

The ceremony was held under the patronage of H E Dr Hilal Ali Al Sabti, Minister of Health.

The centre will be built on an area of 10,625sqm, with construction expected to take nine months, followed by 45 days for equipment installation and preparation.

Dr Khalid Al Rasadi, Professor at Sultan Qaboos University’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences and Supervisor of the Omani Genome Programme, said the project supports the objectives of Vision 2040.

He said the centre will study the genomic characteristics of Omani society and establish a national reference database, strengthening the sultanate’s position in genomic research, supporting the knowledge economy and advancing precision medicine.

Dr Ali Al Lawati, Adviser to the Minister of Health for Engineering Affairs, said the centre has been designed using the latest construction technologies and biosafety laboratory standards. It will incorporate energy-efficient systems, smart building management and provisions for future expansion.

The centre will be equipped with high-throughput whole-genome sequencing technology and an automated national biobank capable of preserving more than 1mn samples at ultra-low temperatures of up to 80°C below zero and in liquid nitrogen. Continuous monitoring and backup power systems will ensure sample security over the long term.

The project comprises a 3,000sqm main laboratory building and a 600sqm services building connected by a concrete services tunnel, along with a power station, parking facilities and external services.

The centre will serve as the foundational infrastructure of the Omani Genome Programme. In its first phase (2025-2030), the programme aims to sequence the complete genomes of 20,000 citizens representing Oman’s demographic and geographic diversity. The target will expand to 100,000 participants by 2040.

The resulting database will support precision and personalised medicine, improve early detection of hereditary and chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and cancer, and strengthen premarital and newborn screening programmes.

The programme will also focus on developing national expertise in genomics and bioinformatics in partnership with SQU and other academic and research institutions, while supporting research partnerships and emerging bioscience industries.

The centre will operate under strict standards of privacy, security and ethical governance, with participation based on informed consent. The project is expected to enhance healthcare by integrating genomic analysis with national health records and establishing an advanced biobank.