Dubai Municipality has introduced a specialised laboratory service that can detect and measure genetically modified content in food products, strengthening oversight of products sold in the local market.
The service uses advanced genetic analysis techniques to identify genetically modified organisms in agricultural products, edible oils and processed foods, providing both qualitative and quantitative results.
Officials said the move will help manufacturers, importers and food businesses meet regulatory requirements related to GMO labelling while giving consumers greater visibility into product contents.
The municipality has also upgraded its testing capabilities through multiplex analysis methods, allowing multiple genetic targets to be examined simultaneously. The approach reduces testing time, improves efficiency and lowers resource consumption.
Hind Mahmoud Ahmed, Director of Dubai Central Laboratory Department, said the service expands the municipality’s food testing capabilities and provides accurate analysis of the genetic composition of food products.
She said the initiative supports efforts to strengthen food safety standards, improve market transparency and reinforce consumer confidence.
Dubai Municipality is also working towards obtaining Non-GMO Project accreditation, an internationally recognised certification for the verification of non-genetically modified products.
If granted, Dubai Central Laboratory would become among the first laboratories in the Middle East to receive the accreditation, expanding the specialised services available to government entities, manufacturers, suppliers and private sector companies.
The laboratory is also working with international biotechnology companies to develop testing methods, exchange technical expertise and broaden the range of products that can be examined as food technologies continue to evolve.
Officials said these efforts will support Dubai’s food safety framework and strengthen its position as a regional centre for food testing and quality assurance.