On the sidelines of the 2025 International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance Conference, TRENDS Research & Advisory and the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies (ESRC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen research collaboration, exchange expertise in various fields, and enhance their role in serving society by providing insightful perspectives that contribute to future foresight.

In the presence of H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al-Nuaimi, Chairman of the Advisory Council of Sharjah and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of ESRC, the agreement was signed by Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, and Dr. Firas Habbal, President of the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

The MoU aims to produce evidence-based research that supports scholars and academics while enriching knowledge in areas such as public policy and sustainable development. It also seeks to expand the knowledge base and foster academic cooperation between the two institutions, ultimately benefiting society and promoting civilizational dialogue and tolerance.

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, emphasized that this partnership reflects the Center’s commitment to supporting rigorous scientific research and contributing to policy development based on solid scientific foundations. He stated, “At TRENDS, we believe that research collaboration is key to a deeper understanding of global issues. This agreement will open new avenues for joint work towards a more tolerant and knowledgeable future.”

For his part, Dr. Firas Habbal expressed his optimism about achieving tangible outcomes through this collaboration. “We will work on producing valuable studies that enhance the role of scientific research in serving society and decision-makers,” he said, noting that the MoU underscores both institutions’ dedication to research integration and leveraging expertise to support dialogue and tolerance initiatives.