The establishment of the Arab Think Tank and Research Network is a culmination of significant efforts undertaken individually by various Arab research institutions. Recognizing the need for such a network, the Gulf Research Center proposed the creation of a dedicated platform, with its headquarters housed in the esteemed cultural, scientific, and research institution—Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

This initiative aims to achieve several key objectives that have been central to my priorities since I founded the Gulf Research Center 25 years ago in Saudi Arabia and its branches abroad. The opportunity to realize this vision arose when I proposed the idea of establishing the network—a proposal that received approval, support, and endorsement from Professor Dr. Ahmed Abdullah Zayed, Director of Bibliotheca Alexandrina (BA).

The network was established to advance research and intellectual exchange in the region by fostering collaboration between Arab research centers across different countries, expanding the dissemination of their work, and strengthening connections among their members and leadership. Additionally, it seeks to facilitate discussions on key regional issues, enhancing the role of these institutions in providing informed advisory insights to decision-makers in Arab states.

Among the network’s ambitious initiatives is the organization of an annual conference to address pressing regional issues, explore relations with major global blocs, and strengthen ties among member think tanks. The network will also promote the exchange of research studies and facilitate discussions on shared interests—whether through direct dialogue in meetings or via its dedicated online platform. This, in turn, will enable the exchange of expertise and provide research centers with opportunities to become acquainted with one another’s work and contributions.

We hope that Arab think tanks and research institutions will actively participate in this network to ensure its success, achieve its objectives, and fulfill its intended mission.

Dr. Abdulaziz Sager

Chairman, Gulf Research Center (GRC)