Ministry of Economy launches ‘Knowledge and Innovation Hub’ to strengthen collaboration with UAE’s academic sector in economic policy, research, and studies

MoUs signed with 18 universities and research institutions from across the country

The Ministry of Economy launched the ‘Knowledge and Innovation Hub’ in collaboration with some of the leading institutions from the UAE’s academic sector. This strategic initiative aims to foster partnerships between the Ministry and academic entities in the fields of economic policy, research, and innovation. The launch took place during a dedicated event hosted by the Ministry in Dubai, held in the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, alongside senior officials from the Ministry and representatives from participating academic institutions.

As part of the initiative, the Ministry signed a series of partnership agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 18 universities, research institutions, and innovation centres from across the country. These agreements are designed to enhance the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the Ministry and entities concerned with economic legislation, policy development, and other related disciplines. The collaboration seeks to adopt global best practices to build an integrated national knowledge network that supports the development of forward-looking economic policies and strengthens the competitiveness of the UAE’s economy and business ecosystem.

H.E. Bin Touq said: “The UAE has consistently prioritised the development of economic legislation in line with global best practices, in recognition of its role in driving growth of the national economy and enhancing regional and global competitiveness. Today, through the launch of the Knowledge and Innovation Hub, we are expanding our engagement with universities and academic institutions within the UAE’s academic sector. It creates a new platform that drives research and innovation and connects knowledge with economic policymaking, thereby fostering collaboration in this regard. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to build a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy, in line with the objectives of ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.”

His Excellency added: “The universities and research centres in the UAE are not merely institutions for vocational and technical training and education; they possess deep understanding of the economic and social challenges we are facing. This underscores the importance of this initiative in leveraging the expertise of these institutions to develop globally leading policies that support the UAE’s sustainable economic development.”

The Minister of Economy explained that while education is not directly reflected in GDP, its impact is both profound and far-reaching. It enhances labour productivity, advances technological efficiency, attracts investment, and supports entrepreneurship and innovation. Education also plays a critical role in equipping future generations with the knowledge, skills, and values essential for driving societal progress.

Academic partners of the ‘Knowledge and Innovation Hub’ include Khalifa University, the American University of Sharjah, NYU Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, the University of Sharjah, the American University in the Emirates, the American University in Dubai, the University of Dubai, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), Abu Dhabi University, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, the University of Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain University, the Abu Dhabi School of Management, Al Ain University (AAU), the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, TRENDS Research & Advisory, and Fiker Center.

The MoUs are aimed at building capacities across key economic sectors and disciplines, producing research and studies aligned with the UAE’s economic priorities, and organizing academic roundtables and workshops to exchange insights on economic policies and developments. They also seek to translate academic research into actionable practices, foster collaboration with international universities, and develop academic and executive education programs. In addition, the agreements aim to promote community awareness of entrepreneurship, innovation, and a culture of creativity, while also providing training and awareness initiatives tailored for students.

The signing ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Safeya Hashem Al Safi, Assistant Undersecretary for Commercial Control and Governance Sector at the Ministry of Economy, and Her Excellency Dr. Maria Hanif Al Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for the Policies and Economic Studies Sector at the Ministry of Economy, along with various university presidents, deans, executive directors, and staff representatives from 22 academic institutions and universities from across the country.

The event featured two panel sessions. The first, titled “Academic Insight and Policy Impact: Advancing Innovation through Institutional and Academic Collaboration,” focused on the role of academic institutions in supporting economic development and enhancing competitiveness through innovation and the potential for building effective frameworks for intellectual property (IP). The second session, “Data and Decisions: Role of Academia in Policymaking,” explored the importance of academic institutions and universities in shaping innovative economic policies and driving sustainable growth of economies.