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UAE residents and tourists can now verify the purity of their jewellery in just 40 seconds, thanks to a groundbreaking system launched by Dubai Municipality (DM) on Gitex 2025’s opening day. The Smart Gold and Jewellery Testing Lab is among the world’s first to provide self-service testing for precious metals.
This innovative lab utilizes the Internet of Things (IoT), AI, and machine learning to streamline testing processes, enhancing both efficiency and accuracy. Individuals wishing to assess the purity of their gold, silver, or platinum jewellery can access these kiosks, soon to be available throughout the emirate, and pay Dh40 for immediate results.
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Hind Mahmoud, Director of Dubai Central Laboratory Department, shared that tourist feedback inspired the system’s development. “Many tourists expressed the need for a quick way to verify the purity of their gold purchases before leaving the souq,” she stated. “Their stay is often brief, requiring fast results. Currently, testing at the Central Laboratory in Karama takes seven days. This led us to create a self-service option that provides results in just 40 seconds.”
How It Works
On Monday, a prototype was exhibited at the Gitex event. Users can test their jewellery by inserting each piece into the machine’s sample slot. Payments are made via card on the system.
“Before testing, an instructional video will guide users through the process,” Hind explained. “These videos will be available in various languages.”
The machines will be installed in numerous locations across Dubai, including malls and the Gold Souq, by early 2026. “When deployed, they will be housed in enclosed spaces to ensure user privacy,” she added.
While the current model tests individual jewellery pieces, future versions will assess entire sets simultaneously and verify diamond and gemstone authenticity. This advancement enhances consumer trust and service quality in the gold and jewellery industry.
