The UAE has adopted a world-class platform to drive investment in scientific research and development (R&D) in line with UAE Vision 2021 and Centennial 2071.

Launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the platform represents a gathering of major research institutions in the country, and aims to provide an advanced research environment and outstanding infrastructure to improve scientific sectors in the country by reducing the cost of research activities by 30 per cent.

“The UAE is offering a leading global model for the perfect investment in human potential, and providing a scientific environment and research infrastructure that allows great minds to innovate pre-emptive solutions to major challenges facing humanity, constituting a knowledgeable addition to the region and greater world,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

He added: “Today we have launched the UAE Platform for Scientific Laboratories, the first of its kind in the UAE. It will allow researchers and scientists to access the most advanced laboratory equipment, and create an environment for scientists to exchange knowledge, expertise and scientific results.”

“Through this initiative, we are announcing that the UAE has been turned into an open-air laboratory, a beacon for advanced sciences and their applications as well as a scientific innovation environment for shaping the future of the UAE,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

The platform also aims to establish an integrated working system that is based on a solid foundation of activities by scientific research institutions through effective partnerships with leading international research centres.

The platform will link state laboratories to scientists and experts to ensure the production of knowledge in the country’s investment in specialised laboratories to raise the productivity of research institutions.

The platform is an initiative of the Emirates Scientists Council (ESC), in charge of creating a supportive environment for research and scientists as part of the UAE Advanced Science Agenda 2031, which was launched by Sheikh Mohammed in early April 2018.