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The Advanced Technology Research Council announced its appointment as the United Arab Emirates’ national representative to the International Science Council, establishing the country’s first such connection to the global body. This designation, detailed in a statement released on July 8, 2026, will allow ATRC to contribute directly to international discussions on science diplomacy and evidence-based decision making. The International Science Council functions as the world’s largest independent non-governmental organization of its kind, according to the announcement. It unites more than 250 scientific entities ranging from national academies to specialized unions, the statement from ATRC reported.
Together with the World Federation of Engineering Organizations, the International Science Council co-convenes the Scientific and Technological Community Major Group at the United Nations, the announcement indicated. This role supports the incorporation of scientific evidence into global policy processes and the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The council’s strategy covering 2025 through 2028 emphasizes strengthening science systems to tackle challenges from emerging technologies, according to details provided in the statement.
The announcement was issued ahead of Science Day 2026, a United Nations event set for July 9, 2026 and co-organized by the International Science Council. His Excellency Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General of ATRC, said in the statement, “At a time when science and technology are becoming increasingly central to economic resilience, competitiveness, and international cooperation, the UAE’s participation in this respected global community helps shape the conversations that matter most.” Al Bannai added that through ATRC this milestone strengthens the nation’s contribution to global scientific dialogue and creates new opportunities to advance the ideas, technologies, and partnerships that will define the next generation of future-shaping progress.
Salvatore Aricò, CEO of the International Science Council, noted in the announcement, “We are delighted to welcome the Advanced Technology Research Council as the International Science Council’s first member representing the UAE.” Aricò stated that its inclusion reflects ISC’s growing diversity and global reach and reinforces the shared commitment to advancing science for the benefit of society everywhere. The appointment through ATRC secures the UAE first-ever representation in the International Science Council, as highlighted in the official release.
This step complements ATRC’s existing memberships in the Science and Technology in Society Forum and the European Association of Research and Technology Organizations, according to the announcement. These affiliations collectively promote enhanced international collaboration, knowledge sharing and the UAE’s expanding presence in global research networks. The Advanced Technology Research Council was established by the Abu Dhabi government in May 2020 to develop a vibrant research and development ecosystem, an ISC member profile indicated.
An OECD assessment of investment policy perspectives in the United Arab Emirates found that Abu Dhabi’s share of foreign direct investment in advanced industries has risen, driven by targeted initiatives including those of ATRC. The council oversees programs aimed at converting research into technologies that support economic priorities, according to its published overview. Such efforts form part of the UAE’s broader transition toward a knowledge-based economy, the assessment noted.
