Dubai Police to Offer Virtual Autopsy in 5 Minutes at New Forensic Hub

Dubai Police will launch a AED 525 million forensic science complex in 2026, designed to become one of the most advanced crime-analysis facilities in the region. The new building, under construction on Tunisia Street, is shaped to resemble the human body and will house specialised laboratories, training centres and AI-supported systems. One of the facility’s key features is the ability to conduct virtual autopsies in five minutes — a significant reduction from traditional post-mortem procedures that typically take several hours. The hub will also introduce expanded forensic disciplines, including forensic dentistry, forensic entomology, genomics, advanced pathology and an AI-enabled medical simulation theatre. Dubai Police’s forensic department has grown substantially over recent years, now comprising 620 experts and specialists across more than 45 scientific fields, with more than 90 percent of the workforce being Emirati. The upgrade forms part of a wider modernisation effort in investigative processes. Recent innovations include rapid drug-testing kits that deliver results in ten minutes, portable DNA devices for field analysis and saliva-based drug tests. Researchers are also developing wearable, real-time drug-detection patches. A newly established genomics department has already applied advanced DNA screening to identify individuals and trace biological evidence. In one case, genomic analysis revealed a rare gene linked to sudden death in a child, enabling preventive care for family members. Last year, Dubai Police conducted around 65,000 specialised forensic examinations across multiple disciplines, supporting investigations across the UAE. Officials noted that the new complex incorporates lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, with integrated labs, autopsy units, repatriation services and post-mortem capabilities built to international standards.