Hamdan bin Mohammed Launches Dubai Police Genome Center, Pioneering Law Enforcement Genetics
Dubai, September 13 – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai, inaugurated the Genome Center at the General Department of Criminal Evidence and Criminology of the Dubai Police. This center is set to play a pivotal role in advancing Dubai’s technological and scientific leadership and supporting law enforcement operations.
The Dubai Police Genome Center is among the first specialized law enforcement genetic centers globally. It actively contributes to the UAE’s National Genome Strategy, aiming to establish the country as a hub for genomic research and innovation. Notably, the Dubai Police General Headquarters has been an early adopter of genomics, demonstrating regional leadership in this field by sending employees and students to leading international universities to specialize in genomics.
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed by Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, on the organizational structure of the Genome Center. The center comprises four sections:
- Human Genome Division: This section conducts genetic profiling on human samples to determine genetic backgrounds, offering insights into forensic genetic recognition. It specializes in molecular analysis.
- Metagenomics Division: Focused on analyzing non-human and environmental samples, this section identifies their species or strains.
- Biological Data and Bioinformatics Divisions: These teams are experts in statistically analyzing genetic mutations through artificial intelligence and developing algorithms specific to genome data.
This unique initiative also includes the field of forensic entomology within Dubai Police. The specialized team is the first of its kind in the Middle East, relying on a first-of-its-kind database in the region. Their work supports forensic investigations in determining causes of death, with techniques tested under different geographic and climatic conditions.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan learned about the project’s role in resolving cases and how it harnesses Dubai Police’s expertise and technology to apply scientific methods to real cases. The “Forensic Entomology Project” is particularly notable for its impressive ability to deliver results in less than 24 hours, a significant improvement compared to the standard 3 to 14 days employed by law enforcement agencies worldwide. This accomplishment was made possible by building a massive database for this field.
Sheikh Hamdan was also presented with the results of the “Memory Print” system applied to several criminal cases. This system uses cutting-edge technology to analyze brainwave patterns when a suspect views crime-related images or tools. It offers a precise analysis of whether the suspect was present at the crime scene.
Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri expressed his gratitude for the continuous support of Sheikh Hamdan, emphasizing Dubai Police’s commitment to harnessing and developing all its capabilities to enhance security and safety. This initiative exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to progress, prosperity, and security, both regionally and globally.
The Dubai Police Genome Center stands as a beacon of innovation, highlighting Dubai’s dedication to advancing the frontiers of genetic research and its applications in law enforcement. This pioneering effort aligns with the UAE’s ambitious vision for the future and its relentless pursuit of excellence.
