Dr. Mohammed Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, emphasized that innovation is no longer a mere intellectual luxury, but has become an “existential necessity” and a fundamental pillar for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) amidst accelerating global challenges. In a statement marking the World Creativity and Innovation Day, observed this year under the theme “Launch and Innovate,” Dr. Al-Ali explained: “True innovation is not born in a vacuum; it is the ripe fruit of long-term investment in robust scientific research. In 2026, we see that the nations and institutions that have successfully navigated crises are those that adopted the scientific method as their compass, transforming laboratories and research halls into launchpads for practical solutions to societal and economic problems.” Regarding the role of research centers, Al-Ali noted that think tanks act as the “intellectual engine” of societies. “They do not merely analyze reality; they work on forecasting the future and providing policy innovations that offer decision-makers an accurate roadmap. Innovation, in our view, is the transformation of knowledge into added value that serves humanity and supports global stability.” Reviewing the experience of TRENDS Research & Advisory, Dr. Al-Ali affirmed it represents a pioneering model in modernizing scientific research: “TRENDS has succeeded in breaking traditional research molds by integrating Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies into analysis and forecasting processes. We don’t just provide research; we create an integrated innovative environment that connects academics, practitioners, and youth to ensure the sustainability of creative thought and its cross-border impact.” Dr. Al-Ali concluded his statement by calling for enhanced support for the creative economy, stressing that investing in innovative minds and supporting research centers is the true guarantee for building a prosperous future. He emphasized that the 2026 slogan, “Launch and Innovate,” must serve as a catalyst for all institutions to embrace initiative and positive change.