The sequencing of the human genome has enormous implications for the Eastern Mediterranean Region in medicine, agriculture, law and sociology. Future progress in these fields will depend upon careful collection, analysis, and application of information generated through genomics and biotechnology. Based on a sample of 37 institutes from 11 countries, this publication appraises regional capacity in the field of genomics and biotechnology in health by examining the focus of interest, technical facilities, training facilities, and staff of institutes in the Region where research in genomics and biotechnology is being pursued. It discusses the need for countries to optimize their resources to find genomic and biotechnological solutions to combat disease and other health issues prevalent in the Region. It supplies a listing of infrastructure and expertise for quick reference by health researchers, scholars, policy-makers and other stakeholders of health services.