From its role as a platform for academics passionate about knowledge and as a meeting point for researchers at both the regional and international levels, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, in collaboration with the Gulf Research Center, has established the Arab Think Tanks and Research Centers Network. This initiative stems from the belief of both institutions in the necessity of upholding the virtue of intellectual thought and the value of research and learning. The network thus welcomes research centers and think tanks from across the Arab world to join a collaborative environment that aspires to new horizons in strategic studies, social sciences, and field research related to Arab affairs on regional and international levels.

Given the critical role that research centers and think tanks play in addressing emerging issues at local, regional, and global levels, all topics are worthy of research. However, in these challenging times, Arab think tanks must prioritize their research agendas in alignment with unfolding events, with one of the most pressing priorities being the strengthening of the nation-state. This requires a deep awareness of the risks that threaten the Arab region—whether internal, regional, or international—posed by states with specific agendas in the region. Research institutions and think tanks play a vital role in addressing these challenges, as they are essential for advancing scientific research and linking it to economic, social, technological, and other development processes.

The idea behind launching this network is to empower Arab think tanks and research centers to collaborate under one umbrella, thereby maximizing the impact of research, elevating intellectual discourse, and addressing the opportunities and challenges facing Arab nations. It aims to bring together researchers and experts from different regions and countries to facilitate dialogue, organize regular events, and foster intellectual exchange. To achieve this goal, we aspire to host annual international conferences, panel discussions to encourage the free exchange of ideas, and workshops that contribute to enriching serious academic research. These activities will take into account the diverse local contexts and the shared Arab heritage when addressing regional challenges.

Through these engagements, we aim to promote the exchange of studies and expertise, benefiting from the findings and recommendations that emerge from these academic gatherings. These insights, in turn, will aid Arab policymakers in navigating contemporary developments, anticipating future challenges, and preparing for them effectively.

Thus, we extend a public invitation to all Arab think tanks and research centers to join this network, contribute to its growth, and engage actively in its initiatives. Let us move forward towards a knowledge-driven future that reflects the intellectual stature of the Arab world and its deep-rooted scholarly legacy. Just as Arab scholars in the past enriched the world with their research, thought, and experimentation, today, we have the opportunity to reclaim and revitalize that role.

Prof. Dr. Ahmed Abdullah Zayed
Director, Bibliotheca Alexandrina