DED showcases Dubai Economic Research Award at international conference

Held recently by Zayed University in association with the Middle East Economic Association under the patronage of UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and President of Zayed University His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan.

Reaching out to professionals, academics and students, DED provided detailed information on the Dubai Economic Research Award, which highlights the importance of applied research in shaping the economy. DED employees were present at DED's pavilion on the sidelines of the conference to explain the objectives, research areas, eligibility and dates of the second cycle.

"We are inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to enhance the position of the UAE regionally and internationally. Through DERA, DED seeks to develop the various economic sectors, support economic studies in Dubai and provide applicable practices that contribute to the UAE's development drive," said Saeed Rashid Al Suwaidi, Director of Economic Affairs Division at DED.

"Launched under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance and Industry, DERA is part of DED's efforts to create a wider applied research base that will support decision-makers in the government, business and academic sectors and help them formulate growth strategies," added Al Suwaidi.

DERA covers eight economic sectors: tourism, oil and gas, health, education, finance and banking, industry and trade, real estate and construction, transport and storage. The deadline for submissions is September 30, 2007. The DERA competition is open to UAE nationals and other researchers residing in the UAE at the time of submission. The awards will be presented at a ceremony to be held in December 2007.

Partners of the second cycle include Zayed University, which has been associated with DERA since the first cycle, Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, Dubai Investments Company, Dubai Financial Market, Dubai World Trade Center and Dubai Cable Company (DUCAB).