If you are struggling with bloating, IBS like symptoms, fatigue, unexplained inflammation or you are simply curious about your gut health, a gut microbiome test may provide answers that routine tests cannot. This page is for patients ready to explore whether this test is suitable or to book their test directly.
I am Dr Pranab, Consultant Gastroenterologist with over twenty five years of experience in London and Dubai. I use advanced shotgun metagenomic sequencing in selected patients to help understand the gut ecosystem in a way that is clinically meaningful.
If you want to learn more about what the gut microbiome is and how it affects health in general, please see our detailed information page on the microbiome here: Gut Microbiome Information.
Gut Microbiome Testing in Dubai
Why Consider a Gut Microbiome Test
The gut microbiome influences much more than digestion. It can affect immunity, inflammation, metabolism, skin, mood and how your body responds to diet and medications.
Patients who tend to benefit most from this test include those with:
- Persistent bloating or gas despite normal scopes or blood tests
- Recurrent IBS like symptoms
- Unexplained fatigue or inflammatory markers
- Suspected food sensitivities
- Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or autoimmune illness
- A wish to optimise gut health and longevity
Why Choose Dr Pranab – Clearer Comparison
| Feature | Dr. Pranab Gyawali | Other Providers |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Shotgun metagenomic sequencing | Mostly 16S or less advanced methods |
| Licensed in UAE? | ✅ DOH-licensed, processed within UAE | Often shipped abroad with unclear licensing |
| Medical Oversight | ✅ Consultant Gastroenterologist (14+ yrs exp.) | ❌ Often unclear, no GI input |
| Result Interpretation | ✅ 1-on-1 face-to-face consultation with doctor | ❌ Automated reports, minimal explanation |
| Dietitian Review | ✅ Personalised diet plan by experienced microbiome dietitian in face-to-face consultation | ❌ Generic diet suggestions |
| Home Collection | ✅ Sample collected from your home via FedEx | ❓ Varies by provider |
| Turnaround Time | ⏳ ~4 weeks (due to detailed reporting + review) | Often shorter but less comprehensive |
It is not just about the test itself. It is about who interprets it and how your plan is tailored.
What You Are Paying For – And Why It Matters
Many microbiome services offer basic analysis with no medical oversight or outdated techniques. With this service you are investing in:
- Department of Health licensed testing carried out within the UAE
- Shotgun metagenomic sequencing for detailed microbial and functional profiling
- A one to one consultation with an experienced Consultant Gastroenterologist
- A personalised nutrition plan from a microbiome trained dietitian
This is a premium, medically guided service designed to provide meaningful, practical recommendations rather than raw data alone.
How the Process Works
- Home test kit delivered to you by FedEx
- Sample collected from your home by FedEx
- Analysis performed in a licensed laboratory within the UAE
- Comprehensive report describing gut bacteria, diversity, function and key microbial signals
- Face to face or teleconsultation with Dr Pranab and a dietitian to review the findings and agree a plan
Results are usually ready in around four weeks, due to the depth of sequencing and clinical review.
What About SIBO
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, is different from large bowel microbiome imbalance. SIBO breath tests assess the small intestine and are often useful when there is early upper abdominal bloating, gas or reflux. Microbiome testing looks mainly at the colon and gives a broader view of the gut ecosystem.
In many patients, SIBO testing and microbiome testing are complementary. You can read more about hydrogen and methane breath testing here: Hydrogen and Methane Breath test for SIBO
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this test useful even if I have had a colonoscopy
Yes. Colonoscopy examines the structure of
the bowel and looks for visible disease. A microbiome test looks at function and microbial balance, which cannot be
seen on a scope.
Is this suitable for children or teenagers
Yes, with some adjustments to interpretation. The
test is licensed by the Department of Health Abu Dhabi for children aged three years and above. Please contact us
first for younger patients or complex cases.
Will I receive a personalised diet plan
Yes. You will receive tailored dietary advice based on
your microbiome profile, developed in consultation with a microbiome trained dietitian.
Can I do this test even if I am generally well
Yes. Some patients choose this test for
prevention, longevity or performance optimisation.
How is the test done and delivered
You collect a small stool sample at home using the kit
provided. FedEx will pick up the sample from your home and deliver it to the UAE laboratory.
How long does it take to get results
Results are usually ready within about four weeks.
How much does the test cost
The fee reflects the depth of analysis, the use of shotgun
sequencing, and the medical and dietetic consultations included. Full cost details are provided on enquiry or at the
time of booking.
Further Gut Health Resources
- Microbiome in Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis
- Hydrogen and Methane Breath test for SIBO
- IBS Treatment in Dubai
- Bloating and Gas Assessment in Dubai
- Yogurt and Gut Health
Book Your Gut Microbiome Test in Dubai
If you are ready to move forward or would like to discuss whether this test is appropriate for you, please use the booking or enquiry form on this page.