Dubai Police has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oxford Nanopore Technologies, cementing a partnership focused on forensic sciences and genomics. The agreement covers educational exchanges, research and development (R&D) programmes, and specialised training — positioning Dubai Police as a global leader in forensic innovation.
MoU Signed at General Department of Forensic Sciences
The MoU was witnessed and signed by His Excellency Major General Ahmad Thani Bin Ghalita, Director of the General Department of Forensic Sciences and Criminology at Dubai Police, and Phil Watkins, Vice President of Finance at Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc.
Major General Bin Ghalita noted that the cooperation aligns with Dubai Police General Command policy to develop R&D, share knowledge, and improve the capabilities of its specialised laboratories. "Such partnerships contribute significantly to learning about different experiences and practices that can improve the performance of laboratories," he said.
Advancing Genomics and Nanopore DNA Sequencing
Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Mohamed Almarri, Director of the Genome Centre at the General Department of Forensic Sciences and Criminology, highlighted the importance of cutting-edge genomic techniques in modern policing.
"The exchange of knowledge in genomics through this cooperation means that Dubai Police is always on top in terms of using advanced technologies in apprehension of criminals," he said.
The agreement will enable Dubai Police to adopt international best practices in forensic sciences and criminology, with the Genome Centre serving as a hub for deploying Oxford Nanopore's sequencing technology in real-world criminal investigations.
Oxford Nanopore Brings Rapid DNA Sequencing to Dubai Forensics
Tonya McSherry, VP Commercial EMEAI at Oxford Nanopore Technologies, described the collaboration as a significant step forward for DNA sequencing in law enforcement.
"It's exciting to be able to partner with Dubai Police and use DNA sequencing in the field of safety and health security," she said. "In collaboration with Dubai Police, we will strive to achieve best practice in forensic and pathogen detection, as well as improving the speed and accuracy of analysis that can save lives."
Oxford Nanopore's platform is known for its portable, real-time sequencing capabilities — allowing faster forensic analysis at the point of need rather than waiting for centralised lab results.
Training, Capacity Development, and Technology Implementation
The general activities outlined under the Dubai Police Oxford Nanopore Technologies MoU include:
- Technical training programmes on genomics and nanopore sequencing - Capacity development for Dubai Police forensic personnel - Implementation of nanopore technology across forensic laboratory workflows - Joint research and development into forensic and pathogen detection applications
These programmes are intended to enhance the force's overall forensic capabilities and ensure Dubai Police remains at the forefront of scientific innovation in criminal investigation.
Dubai Police's Vision for Technology-Led Policing
The agreement reflects Dubai Police's broader strategy to incorporate advanced technology and human expertise into its forensic and criminology division. With Oxford Nanopore Technologies as a partner, the force gains access to one of the world's most advanced portable DNA sequencing platforms — tools that improve both the speed and accuracy of forensic analysis, which can ultimately save lives and strengthen public safety across Dubai and the UAE.
