For the second day, TRENDS Research & Advisory continued its distinguished activities at the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair as a Platinum Sponsor of the event. Its pavilion captured visitors’ attention with a unique design that reflects the depth of national heritage and a forward-looking vision. Visitors were taken on a vibrant journey through the pearl era, highlighting the stages of the UAE’s development, from the days of pearl diving to its emergence as a leader on the regional and global stage. They also had the opportunity to explore dozens of diverse publications analyzing current issues and anticipating future trends.

Initiative for Lifelong Learning, Training, and Continuous Development

The TRENDS pavilion hosted a special workshop titled “The Year of Community: Launching the Initiative for Lifelong Learning, Training, and Continuous Development.” The workshop was jointly organized by TRENDS Research & Advisory K Abu Dhabi University – College of Law, and The Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals. The initiative aims to promote a culture of lifelong learning and personal development within Emirati society, in line with the leadership’s vision of building an advanced knowledge society.

TRENDS’ Mission in the Year of Community

The workshop started with a welcome address delivered by Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between national institutions to support the objectives of the Year of Community.

Dr. Al-Ali noted that the Initiative for Lifelong Learning, Training, and Continuous Development is a natural extension of TRENDS’ role in promoting knowledge and scientific research, driven by its belief that investing in people is the foundation for building the UAE’s bright future.

A Scientific and Professional Vision

In his speech, H.E. Counselor Zayed Saeed Al-Shamsi, Chairman of the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals, emphasized that law is not merely a profession, but a science, an art, and a noble mission aimed at achieving justice and safeguarding rights.

He pointed to the profound changes the world is witnessing today, particularly with the integration of AI into various fields, including legal practice, which presents both new challenges and opportunities for the profession.

Al-Shamsi stressed that technological advancement should never replace the human element, which is rooted in a deep understanding of the law. He added that while AI can serve as a supportive tool for lawyers, ethical values, legal wisdom, and advocacy skills will always remain at the core of the legal profession.

He concluded by affirming that through the Lifelong Learning Initiative, the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals is committed to enhancing the competence of lawyers and equipping them with modern knowledge and tools, in alignment with the UAE’s aspirations and leadership’s vision for global excellence.

Counselor Mohammed Ahmed Al-Hadhrami, Chairman of the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals – Abu Dhabi Branch, highlighted the association’s efforts to activate the community partnerships team in collaboration with various strategic entities.

He noted that cooperation with partners in academic and legal institutions is a key pillar in promoting legal awareness and increasing public understanding of rights and responsibilities, thus reinforcing the foundations of the rule of law and institutional governance.

Al-Hadhrami stressed that building an informed legal community requires integrated efforts across all sectors to achieve the objectives of the Year of Community.

Professor Talaat Dowidar, Dean of the College of Law at Abu Dhabi University, affirmed that supporting lifelong learning is one of the university’s strategic priorities. He noted that the current initiative stems from the university’s deep belief that education does not end with earning a degree; rather, it is a continuous path of personal and professional growth.

Professor Dowidar added that Abu Dhabi University is committed to providing continuing education and qualification opportunities for all segments of society through academic and professional programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of the labor market. These efforts are carried out in partnership with leading national institutions to ensure the delivery of knowledge outputs that effectively contribute to the advancement of the UAE and its knowledge-based society.

Strategic Thought Bridging Media, Security, and Digital Transformation

Meanwhile, the TRENDS pavilion witnessed the signing of several important publications that addressed pressing current issues and anticipated future strategic shifts.

The first book, titled “The Role of the UAE Government’s Digital Media in Advancing Soft Power,” by Dr. Adnan Hamad, Member of the Federal National Council, highlights the growing role of the UAE’s digital media as an effective tool for enhancing the country’s global position. The book offers an in-depth analysis of soft power concepts and modern digital transformations.

The second book, “U.S. Security Assurance to the Gulf States: Navigating an Era of Strategic Competition,” was authored by researcher Awadh Al-Breiki, Head of TRENDS Global Sector. It examines American security guarantees to the GCC states, presenting multiple scenarios for the future of U.S. engagement amid global strategic shifts and emphasizing the importance of diversifying GCC partnerships and maintaining strategic autonomy.

The third book, “Enhancing E-Service Quality in the UAE – A Roadmap for Smart Governance,” by Dr. Mohammed Al-Ahmad, reviews the UAE’s ambitious and pioneering experience in digital transformation and smart governance. It highlights key digital initiatives and the legislative and technological infrastructure that has positioned the UAE as a global model for smart governance.