Trends Wins Prestigious 'Best Soft Power Communication' Award

UAE Research Center Wins Government Communication Award for Democratizing Strategic Knowledge

The Trends Research and Advisory Center has claimed the Sharjah Government Communication Award for its innovative approach to making complex strategic knowledge accessible to both experts and the general public. The recognition highlights the UAE's growing emphasis on soft power projection through knowledge-based initiatives, positioning the nation as a thought leader in critical global issues.

Award Recognition for Knowledge Democratization

At the 14th International Government Communication Forum 2025, held at Sharjah Expo Centre, the Trends Research Center received the award in the "Best Communication Messages through Soft Power Elements" category. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, presented the award to Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of the Trends Research and Advisory Center.

The award specifically recognized the center's "Trends Knowledge Community" service, which transforms specialized research into digestible content for diverse audiences while maintaining scientific rigor.

Strategic Focus on Critical Global Issues

Bridging the Knowledge Gap

According to Dr. Al-Ali, the Trends Knowledge Community serves as the center's awareness arm, simplifying and disseminating specialized knowledge on strategic issues including cybersecurity, climate change, artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and sustainability. This dual-audience approach makes research accessible to academics and specialists as reference material while simultaneously reaching non-specialists.

Building an Informed Society

The initiative reflects a broader strategy to create what Dr. Al-Ali describes as "an aware society that understands global events and developments." This approach aligns with the UAE's Vision 2071, which emphasizes knowledge-based economic transformation and positions the country as a global hub for innovation and research.

Soft Power Through Knowledge Leadership

The award category itself—soft power communication—signals the UAE's sophisticated understanding of influence in the modern world. Unlike traditional diplomatic or economic leverage, soft power projection through research and knowledge sharing builds long-term credibility and positions the UAE as a trusted voice on global challenges.

This strategy mirrors successful models from Singapore's research institutes and Switzerland's think tanks, where small nations punch above their weight through intellectual leadership rather than resource dominance.

Implications for Regional Knowledge Economy

The recognition comes as Gulf states intensify competition for knowledge economy leadership. The UAE's investment in research communication infrastructure suggests a long-term commitment to influence-building that extends beyond oil wealth. For investors and policymakers, this signals continued government support for research and development sectors.

The award underscores how effective science communication has become a strategic asset, transforming research centers from ivory towers into platforms for national influence and economic diversification.