World's first 'BioVault' to preserve genetic samples of 10,000 species

The UAE government has partnered with US-based Colossal Biosciences to create the world’s first BioVault, a high-tech facility at Dubai’s Museum of the Future designed to preserve genetic material from over 10,000 species, beginning with the 100 most endangered animals. This initiative aims to serve as a “backup system” against the accelerating global extinction crisis, which threatens to wipe out half of Earth’s species by 2050. The BioVault will combine advanced technologies such as robotics, AI monitoring, and cryopreservation to securely store millions of genetic samples, generate high-quality genomic data, and support long-term biodiversity conservation and research. Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the project will transform the Museum of the Future into a hub for scientific research and life preservation. The facility will also engage the public as citizen scientists by allowing visitors to observe DNA sequencing and interact with live laboratories, thereby fostering greater awareness and participation in biodiversity efforts