DUBAI: Dubai Municipality has launched a new advanced laboratory to detect viruses that may spread through food, giving the emirate stronger tools to protect public health and food safety.
The new facility, called ViruGenetics Lab, is located at Dubai Central Laboratory. It is the first facility of its kind in the UAE, according to Dubai Municipality.
The lab will use modern genomic technologies to test food samples for harmful viruses, including norovirus and hepatitis A and E viruses.
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A Faster Way to Check Food Risks
The ViruGenetics Lab can process around 60 samples per day. During emergency situations, this can be increased to 100 samples daily.
This faster testing capacity can help inspectors and authorities make quicker decisions when there is a possible food safety concern.
For residents, workers, restaurants, and food businesses, the goal is simple: spot risks earlier before they can affect more people.
What Types of Food Can Be Tested?
The new lab is designed to test complex food samples where viruses may be harder to detect.
These include:
- Dairy products
- Seafood
- Juices
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
These food items are widely consumed across Dubai. Because some are eaten fresh or lightly prepared, accurate testing is important for public safety.
Advanced Technology Behind the Tests
The laboratory uses digital PCR, also known as dPCR. This is one of the world’s advanced molecular testing methods.
In simple terms, dPCR helps scientists detect very small amounts of viral material in food samples. It can give both qualitative and quantitative results, meaning it can show whether a virus is present and help measure how much is detected.
Dubai Municipality said the testing procedures follow ISO/IEC 17025 standards, which are used to ensure quality and reliability in laboratory testing.
Part of Dubai’s Wider Food Safety Push
Eng. Hind Mahmoud Ahmed, Director of the Dubai Central Laboratory Department at Dubai Municipality, said the launch is part of a broader plan to establish specialized laboratories using the latest global technologies.
She said the project supports Dubai’s position as a global leader in food safety and health oversight.
Research Role Beyond Daily Testing
Aside from food testing, the ViruGenetics Lab will also support research with universities and scientific centers.
It will help develop a national database of foodborne viruses and provide authorities with detailed genetic information linked to the food chain.
For Dubai residents and food businesses, this means stronger monitoring, faster response, and better protection against foodborne health risks.
