DERA generates tremendous interest as submission deadline approaches

The DERA was established in January 2005 as a joint venture between the Department of Economic Development and Zayed University and is open to all researchers and students resident in the UAE at the time of submission, including both nationals and expatriates. The deadline for submissions has been set for October 1, 2005, while the awards will be presented by mid December 2005.

"We are gratified by the remarkable interest that this award has generated among researchers," said Khalid Al Kassim, Deputy Director General, Planning and Development, DED. "Investment in research is crucial to the long-term economic growth of the UAE and this award will encourage the development of a knowledge-based economy and result in the provision of value-added information for the business community in the UAE," he added.

The DED has been working closely with various organisations across the UAE to reach out to prospective researchers, academics and students and ensure that they are constantly updated about the Award.

Several field visits have been organised along with representatives from Zayed University to promote DERA. In addition, the DED has also participated in the 6th annual conference for researches, held recently at the UAE University, in Al Ain, and the First Scientific Research Forum at Sharjah University.

The DED has also launched a new logo for DERA, which demonstrates the co-ordination of the three aspects of the economy - the government, the private sector and the academic segment - harmoniously working towards national development.

"True economic development must include the significant contribution of the public, private and the academic segment of a country," said Saeed Al Suwaidi, Director of Planning and Studies Division, DED. "

The Dubai Economic Research Award (DERA) spans eight economic sectors including tourism, oil and gas, health, education, finance and banking, industry and trade, real estate and construction and transport and storage.