A scientific awareness lecture — From Observation to Publication: The Journey of Scientific Research — was organized as part of the ongoing constructive collaboration between TRENDS Research & Advisory and Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
The session was delivered by researcher Saqer Al-Suwaidi, official TRENDS spokesperson, as part of the joint efforts to promote a culture of scientific research and impactful knowledge within institutions and society.
The lecture stemmed from a core belief held by TRENDS: “Every small idea can create a big impact.” It aimed to simplify the concepts of scientific research, link them to practical realities, and offer intellectual and valuable tools that empower individuals to embark on research journeys rooted in their immediate environments.
The session focused on two main themes. The first, titled “Introduction to Scientific Research and its Importance,” explored research to understand the world, analyze phenomena, and find realistic solutions to societal challenges. The second theme tackled the “Reasons and Motivations for Scientific Research,” discussing what drives individuals to research — including personal curiosity, a desire to solve a problem, passion for a scientific field, aspirations for societal impact, or academic and professional ambition.
The lecture clarified the key difference between opinion and information, emphasizing that while opinions are personal and do not necessarily rely on evidence, information is based on verifiable sources — forming the foundation of scientific research.
Al-Suwaidi also highlighted the traits of a genuine researcher — someone who does not stop at asking questions but pursues answers using rigorous scientific methodology. These traits include intellectual curiosity, the ability to pose thoughtful questions, commitment to objectivity, scientific integrity, and strong analytical and interpretive skills.
He emphasized that research begins with a conscious mental state, often sparked by a simple question. Many of the greatest studies began with seemingly ordinary questions with immense intellectual potential.
The lecture also presented practical steps for choosing a research topic grounded in reality. These steps include observing problems or phenomena, consistently recording observations, formulating an open-ended question driven by curiosity, and viewing the issue from the target group’s perspective.
Participants were guided through transforming an observation into a specific research question, crafting a clear hypothesis, and designing a methodological plan to support the study and achieve its objectives.
The lecture underlined several key messages to inspire research engagement: “Every great achievement began with a simple question. An idea without a plan is just a passing dream,” and “Every impactful research started with someone who chose not just to watch.”
Al-Suwaidi encouraged the audience not to wait for the perfect moment or complete expertise, but to take initiative by choosing a relatable idea, consulting reliable sources, crafting an initial research question, and discussing it with mentors or experts.
This lecture reflected TRENDS’ and GDRFA-Dubai’s shared commitment to fostering a culture of research and critical thinking and providing an environment that motivates staff to enhance their academic and intellectual skills — ultimately contributing to institutional excellence and sustainable societal development.
