The Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research was established in 2009 to aid in the social, cultural, and economic development of Ras Al Khaimah, a northern emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Established through Emiri decree by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Foundation is considered a non-profit, quasi-governmental organization.

 

The Foundation acts as a vibrant and collaborative catalyst for positive change and socio-economic impact in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates. Since its inception, the Foundation has actively sought to generate a world-class body of research for public policy challenges specific to Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates by developing collaborative relationships with talented international scholars and world-class universities through a series of competitive international research grants.

 

Research findings are shared and disseminated widely to help influence the development of innovative global-standard public policy tools and models throughout Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates to positively impact social change. This is achieved through collaborative partnerships with both regional and global public policy research centers, established government institutions, and strategic partners in the private and non-governmental sectors.

 

As a dynamic and adaptive organization constantly evolving, the Foundation now places an increasing emphasis on additional priority areas for community investment, such as health and wellness, urban and community development, the arts, and Emirati cultural heritage.

 

The expanding remit of the Foundation’s Ras Al Khaimah Art core initiative plays a vital role in positive socio-economic impact and cross-cultural communication involving local, regional, and international arts and cultural communities and is cementing a unique position for Ras Al Khaimah on the global arts map. This includes presenting its flagship arts and cultural heritage event, the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival held annually at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village.

 

The Al Qasimi Foundation is increasingly able to leverage its elevated platform of regional and global influence and outreach to encourage continual and dynamic innovation. It leads the way for the bright and progressive future of the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.