Abu Dhabi-UAE. 15 November 2023: The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has collaborated with the Emirates Research and Development Council (ERDC) to host a workshop titled ‘Shaping the Future of the R&D Landscape’. The first in a series of workshops, the event brought together scientists, researchers, academics, government officials, and experts to discuss the UAE’s Research & Development (R&D) ecosystem and promote innovation across industrial sectors. In line with ERDC’s objectives to advise on and review legislation, policies, strategies and programs for R&D in the UAE and establish the general framework for aligning R&D activities, the workshop provided an update on the council’s policies and initiatives. The session was aimed at promoting collaboration and stakeholder engagement to identify challenges and priorities for the next phase of the council’s initiatives. The event aligns with the ministry’s strategy and commitment to strengthening the UAE’s position as a hub for innovation, boost scientific progress and enhance industrial efficiency through the adoption of advanced technologies. It was held with the participation of more than 30 experts, decision-makers, and representatives from government entities, academia, and the private sector. Amal Al Hammadi, Head of Science and Technology Policies and Programs at the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MoIAT) said: “The workshop provided a platform to delve into potential collaboration opportunities between government entities, academia and the industrial sector to steer the R&D ecosystem towards further growth. It is through such partnerships that we can foster the blueprint for advancing the UAE’s vital sectors by integrating advanced technologies to support R&D endeavors and contribute to economic diversification.” Al Hammadi added that the initiative is in line with the objectives of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, Operation 300bn, to establish the UAE as a global hub for R&D and innovation. During the workshop, participants addressed several challenges within the UAE’s R&D ecosystem. The discussion also tackled aligning R&D initiatives with broader national goals, navigating complex, ever-evolving regulatory frameworks and establishing effective intellectual property protection mechanisms to safeguard innovation. The MoIAT-ERDC workshop addressed attracting and retaining top talent in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the effective implementation of research findings, creating a future-ready market and bridging the gap between industry and academia by promoting collaboration. In addition, the event discussed evaluating the impact of R&D projects and initiatives to track the effectiveness of R&D efforts.The session also explored how promoting collaboration can result in innovative solutions that will pave the way for a resilient industrial future. Participating in the workshop were senior officials from government entities including the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Health & Prevention, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Defense, and Ministry of Economy. Participants also included representatives from Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), ADNOC Group. Scientists from Khalifa University of Science and Technology, UAE University and New York University Abu Dhabi attended the workshop. The workshop presented ERDC’s insights on the R&D ecosystem, current programs, and upcoming initiatives, showcasing the center’s role in shaping the UAE's research and development landscape.