Overview
The Omani Genome Programme is a national initiative to map the genetic diversity of the Omani population and develop precision medicine capabilities for the Sultanate’s healthcare system. The programme aims to sequence the genomes of a representative sample of the Omani population, creating a comprehensive genetic reference database that can inform personalized medical treatment, disease prevention, and public health planning. Oman’s unique demographic history, with population groups reflecting centuries of trade connections across the Indian Ocean, Africa, and the Middle East, makes the Omani genome particularly valuable for understanding genetic diversity and disease susceptibility in understudied populations.
Key Facts
- National initiative to map the genetic diversity of the Omani population
- Aims to create a comprehensive Omani genetic reference database
- Supports development of precision medicine tailored to Omani patients
- Addresses genetic diseases prevalent in the Omani population
- Builds local capacity in genomics, bioinformatics, and genetic counselling
- Collaborates with international genomics research institutions
- Housed within Sultan Qaboos University’s research infrastructure
Significance for Vision 2040
The Omani Genome Programme positions Oman at the frontier of biomedical research and personalized healthcare, directly supporting Vision 2040’s objectives for healthcare system development and scientific innovation. The programme addresses Oman’s relatively high prevalence of certain genetic disorders, including sickle cell disease and thalassemia, by enabling targeted screening and treatment approaches. Building domestic genomics research capacity contributes to the knowledge economy that Vision 2040 envisions, creating high-skilled employment for Omani scientists and technicians. The genetic database generated by the programme is a unique national asset that could attract international pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to establish research partnerships in Oman, supporting economic diversification into the life sciences sector.