Sarah Al Amiri: The rapid changes taking place around the world make it all the more necessary for us to set strategies and plans to promote scientific research in order to propel the UAE to the fore of the international research sector.

The Emirates Scientists Council (ESC) held its regular meeting at Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa University of Science and Technology to explore the future of scientific research in the UAE and develop strategies to regulate and promote it nationwide.

Chaired by ESC Chairwoman Sarah Al Amiri, the meeting sought ways to foster cooperation between various academic institutions, establish research centers, attract creative minds from across the UAE and harmonize all efforts towards achieving the objectives of the UAE National Vision 2021 and establishing a knowledge economy in the Emirates.

“The UAE is witnessing unprecedented technological and scientific development,” Al Amiri said, “which cements the country’s leading position as a scientific and cultural hub, attracting researchers and academics of various disciplines. The rapid changes taking place around the world make it all the more necessary for us to set our strategies and plans to promote scientific research and offer support to experts and researchers from around the world in order to propel the UAE to the fore of the international research sector.”

The meeting touched upon several other topics that seek to increase investment in scientific research in the UAE, protect intellectual property rights, address the most important procedures and standards that researchers should take into consideration, foster collaboration between private and public academic institutes and invest in and develop national talents, especially following the launch of the UAE Centennial 2071.

Al Amiri concluded: “The knowledge economy is a priority for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai. H.H. has taught us that there is no finish line for the race to excellence, and with that in mind, we continue to support scientific research across all sectors and offer our full support for national talents to take the lead in this race.”

The meeting included a discussion with leading academics and experts from Khalifa University and Dr Arif Al-Hammadi, Director of Khalifa University of Science and Technology and member of ESC , to discuss prospects for cooperation in scientific research, especially in sectors such as advanced science, genetics, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, Blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT).

“Scientific research is the backbone of any country’s progress and development,” Dr Al-Hammadi. “Investment in research is an investment in the future. We are delighted to be cooperating with the Emirates Scientists Council to attract young minds and talents, promote academic research and use its outcomes to build a bright future for the UAE.”

Members of the ESC were taken on a tour of the university’s facilities, centers and laboratories, including the Biotechnology Center, Aerospace Research and Innovation Center, Khalifa University Robotics Institute, Etisalat BT Innovation Center – the first international center dedicated to developing the telecommunications sector.

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© Press Release 2017