The Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research offers a portfolio of competitive grants supporting high-quality research, creative practice, and community-based initiatives in Ras Al Khaimah and across the United Arab Emirates.
Applicants are welcome from the UAE and beyond. Projects may be comparative, with sites in other countries, provided they include at least one research site in the UAE and deliver clear benefit to Ras Al Khaimah.
Through these opportunities, the Foundation advances knowledge, fosters innovation, and promotes meaningful social impact, contributing to evidence-based policymaking and sustainable development at local and national levels.
Explore Our GrantsThe Competitive Grants Program includes several funding streams, each with specific objectives and eligibility requirements. Across its grants, the Foundation is committed to:
Advancing rigorous and relevant knowledge
Supporting creative and cultural expression
Strengthening community-led initiatives
Generating evidence to inform policy and practice
Applicants are encouraged to explore the opportunities below and select the grant that best matches their expertise, proposed activities, and intended outcomes.
Our Research Grants support original, applied, and interdisciplinary research addressing strategic priorities in Ras Al Khaimah and the wider UAE. Opportunities include TransformRAK Seed and Acceleration Grants, as well as a separate Doctoral Research Grants pathway.
Seed Grants support early-stage, experimental research and innovative ideas with the potential to benefit communities in Ras Al Khaimah and the wider UAE. Projects may test prototypes, explore data gaps, or pilot interventions that can inform policy and practice.
Acceleration Grants support the expansion of successful pilot projects, helping proven research achieve greater policy impact and reach more communities in Ras Al Khaimah and beyond. Applicants must demonstrate successful completion of a previous pilot or Seed project.
Doctoral Research Grants support PhD candidates undertaking dissertation field research relevant to Ras Al Khaimah or the wider UAE. The grants encourage policy-relevant research and support doctoral scholars in sharing their findings with the local research community.
Across its funding portfolio, the Foundation supports work connected to the following areas. Specific priorities and eligibility requirements differ by grant stream; applicants should consult the relevant opportunity page.
Our Arts Grants encourage creative production, artistic innovation, and cultural exchange. The Foundation offers opportunities for filmmakers and artists through dedicated grant and residency programs, each with its own guidelines and application arrangements.
Film Grants support short films about Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE, with preference for documentaries. Grant-supported films are presented at the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival the following year.
Artist Residency Grants welcome local and international artists to develop new work with the Ras Al Khaimah community. Residencies conclude with an exhibition and a collaborative public art installation.
Community Impact Grants support Ras Al Khaimah residents, community groups, and organizations in developing collaborative, community-led initiatives that respond to local needs and strengthen quality of life.
Funding can support programme delivery, infrastructure improvements, or organisational capacity building.
| Individuals | Up to AED 5,000 |
|---|---|
| Organizations | Up to AED 10,000 |
| Collaborations | Up to AED 25,000 |
| Partnerships | Up to AED 50,000 |
Each grant stream has its own eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines. Applicants should review the relevant grant guidelines and Applicant Handbook before applying. Strong proposals demonstrate clear relevance to Ras Al Khaimah, alignment with the applicable grant priorities, feasibility, and potential for measurable and sustainable impact.
Choose a grant category above to view its current application instructions and submission process.
For general grants inquiries, please contact
