Dubai Municipality has unveiled a self-service kiosk that functions as a complete laboratory, capable of testing the purity of gold jewellery in less than one minute. This world-first technology was introduced at the municipality’s stand at GITEX Global 2025, which opened on Monday at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The prototype, named the “Smart Gold and Jewellery Testing Lab,” is designed to improve consumer protection and service in the precious metals sector. It follows Dubai’s earlier innovation of an ATM-like machine that dispensed gold nuggets and coins.
Rapid and Accurate Testing
The new kiosk uses the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and machine learning to accelerate testing procedures while maintaining high levels of efficiency and accuracy. A spokesperson for Dubai Municipality confirmed that the device can provide results in under 60 seconds.
Consumers can place an item in the machine and receive a detailed report via SMS or a printed receipt. The analysis will show the content of various metals as percentages, including gold, silver, copper, and zinc. This streamlined process mirrors the convenience of using a cash machine, allowing for a quick and simple experience.
The innovation is expected to transform how residents and tourists verify their gold purchases in one of the world’s most active jewellery markets. “This innovation boosts consumer confidence and elevates the quality of services within the gold and jewellery sector,” the spokesperson added.
Strengthening Market Trust
Dubai’s reputation as a major gold trading hub attracts millions of shoppers each year. The new technology reinforces this standing by offering laboratory-grade testing directly to consumers. It provides a significant time saving compared to the traditional process through the Dubai Central Laboratory, which can take up to seven days.
Dubai Municipality plans to strategically place these smart kiosks in key locations across the emirate. Proposed sites include the iconic Gold Souq and major shopping malls, making the service easily accessible to shoppers. This initiative builds on a previous Memorandum of Understanding with the Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group to provide precious metal testing services in the new Gold Souq, benefiting both merchants and individual customers.
