ABU DHABI: Strategic research capabilities of the UAE are a global talking point today, with the country considered a leader in academic and policy-oriented research internationally.
As CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, an independent research centre in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali is a key figure in this strategic research landscape of the UAE.
With a solid academic background in media, criminology and diplomacy, he has significantly influenced policy and research, making crucial contributions to understanding regional and international issues.
Dr. Al-Ali, who has held several research positions in research and academic institutions, has played a pivotal role in fostering a deeper analysis of key global challenges,
He embarked on his academic journey at the UAE University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Media Studies, specialising in Radio and Television. His academic career continued with a Master’s degree in Diplomacy from the American University in UAE, followed by a Ph.D. in Criminology from Mutah University in Jordan. His doctoral studies allowed him to delve into the intricate relationship between criminology, media and public administration, setting the stage for his future.
Having served in the UAE armed forces, Dr. Al-Ali contributed to the military’s publications, even as he got an opportunity to deepen understanding of security and strategic issues. He spent 26 years of his career as a researcher at The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR). His military experience provided a unique perspective that he later brought to civilian research roles.
Since assuming leadership at TRENDS Research & Advisory in 2019, Dr. Al-Ali enhanced its research output and global impact. Under his guidance, the advisory has produced over 790 research papers and has fostered numerous international collaborations. Dr. Al-Ali’s commitment to nurturing local talent has been particularly impactful, increasing Emirati participation in research, which culminated in TRENDS receiving the Emirates Award for Market Leadership in 2023.
Dr. Al-Ali has striven to give the youth an emphatic push.
“We have ambitious training plans and programmes for youth, including the TRENDS Youth Council, which aims to enhance the capabilities of future generations in the field of scientific research. We hope that these programmes and councils will attract and encourage youth to utilise their capabilities and skills in the field of scientific research to produce scientific studies and research that benefit society and humanity,” he said.
“I would like to point out to the youth that the discussion groups that host them are a unique opportunity to communicate with youth from different parts of the world and from different scientific disciplines,” he added.
Among the many challenges that Dr. Al-Ali has faced is foraying into a field that had limited representation among Emiratis. Addressing this issue, he developed strategic initiatives to encourage local engagement. Singnificantly, 53 per cent of his advisory staff are Emiratis, who, through their collective work have ensured TRENDS is a renowned global research centre with expanding international offices and collaborations.
Dr. Al-Ali aims to integrate modern technologies like artificial intelligence into TRENDS’ operations, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global knowledge exchange.
Beyond his professional endeavours, Dr. Al-Ali is a devoted father of seven, balancing his demanding career with a fulfilling family life. His passion for education extends to his role as an assistant professor at Zayed University, where he teaches media studies and contributes to cultural and academic activities.
