TRENDS Research & Advisory has debuted its presence at the “33rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair” 2024 with an impressive pavilion. The pavilion boasts a wide array of research publications, delving into contemporary issues, examining political Islam movements, and highlighting a comprehensive knowledge program titled “Foreseeing the Future with Artificial Intelligence.

AI Empowered Pavilion

In a groundbreaking move, TRENDS unveiled its hologram program from a device atop its pavilion, offering comprehensive insights into TRENDS and its array of publications. This initiative not only reaffirms its exhibition slogan but also demonstrates its commitment to leveraging technology for the advancement of knowledge.

Leading the pavilion were TRENDS’ artificial robots “Echo” and “Moxie,” engaging visitors with information about TRENDS’ publications and upcoming events. Additionally, TRENDS’ “Tara” glasses allowed attendees to explore the Center’s publications in the virtual realm.

The opening of TRENDS’ pavilion at Booth No. 11 I05 in Hall 10 drew a diverse crowd, including officials, researchers, academics, students, and the general public. Their appreciation for TRENDS’ focused knowledge initiatives, as well as the breadth and depth of its publications, was evident.

Pavilion supervisors provided an overview of TRENDS’ work, publications, and areas of focus as an independent research center dedicated to comprehensive knowledge and culture. Through the hologram device, visitors were treated to an immersive experience, further enhancing their understanding of TRENDS’ research efforts, which garnered praise and admiration.

Cross-Cultural Knowledge Exchange

Aligned with an agreement established with the China International Communications Group (CICG), TRENDS actively engaged in the unveiling and presentation of the Arabic version of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s book, “Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative.” This significant event, unfolded at the Capital Suite Hall in the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC), drew the presence of notable dignitaries, including His Excellency Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Mr. Du Zhanyuan, President of China International Communications Group, His Excellency Zhang Yiming, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the UAE, and His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC).

Dr. Mohammad Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, extolled the significance of the “Belt and Road Initiative” in nurturing global trade during his address. He hailed the book as a testament to a visionary endeavor embraced by the Chinese President to fortify trade routes and international collaboration under the principle of mutual benefit.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of the United Arab Emirates in the “Belt and Road Initiative,” Dr. Al-Ali underscored its strategic positioning and exceptional logistical infrastructure, emphasizing it as a vital hub in the initiative’s global trade network. He noted that the UAE acts as a critical conduit for Sino-Arab trade, with over 22% of the region’s trade with China flowing through its borders.

Additionally, Dr. Al-Ali underscored the enduring partnership between China and the UAE, with China consistently ranking as the UAE’s largest trading partner. Referring to the substantial bilateral trade volume of approximately $95 billion in 2023, he outlined various factors propelling this collaboration towards greater prosperity, including initiatives outlined in the “Belt and Road” framework and the mutual political will to bolster cooperation, particularly in technology, manufacturing, and energy sectors.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Al-Ali reiterated TRENDS Research & Advisory’s commitment to strengthening ties with China. He stressed the Center’s focus on Chinese affairs, recognizing China’s pivotal role on the global stage and its significance in the global economy. Dr. Al-Ali highlighted the Center’s past endeavors, including seminars, conferences, and collaborative ventures with the China International Communications Group, such as the joint report “Chinese Modernization and the Development of Chinese-Emirati Relations”.

He pledged ongoing collaboration with Chinese research institutions and the China International Communications Group to further foster constructive cooperation, aligning with the shared objectives of both nations.

Dr. Mohammed Al-Ali: A Global Advocate for Cultural Exchange

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, expressed profound gratitude for the diligent efforts of the organizers of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. He emphasized that the meticulously executed fair reflects their steadfast dedication to disseminating knowledge across diverse segments of society.

Dr. Al-Ali highlighted that the fair has evolved beyond its local origins to become a beacon of global culture, illuminating pathways of knowledge and serving as a nexus for the convergence of civilizations and the exchange of ideas. Moreover, he underscored its pivotal role in cultivating a culture of book acquisition and raising awareness about the transformative influence of reading on individual and societal development.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Al-Ali encouraged everyone to visit the fair and the TRENDS pavilion, stressing that reading serves as the gateway to enlightenment and a brighter future.

Program Highlights for the Second Day

The second day of the fair will showcase the signing of three research partnership agreements as part of TRENDS’ dynamic program. Additionally, an event will focus on the launch of Book No. 12 of the Encyclopedia on the Muslim Brotherhood, titled: “The Muslim Brotherhood: Rejection of Tolerance and Exclusion of Nonconformists,” in the conference hall of the exhibition. Furthermore, a book signing ceremony is scheduled to take place.