Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a groundbreaking move towards enhancing security and defense studies in the Middle East, Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, unveiled the Rabdan Security and Defence Institute (RSDI) during the ISNR 2024 Conference. This specialized think tank, established as part of a strategic initiative led by Rabdan Academy, aims to provide in-depth analysis, research, and recommendations on defense and security matters in the region.
The launch of RSDI marks a significant milestone in the efforts to deepen understanding of regional security dynamics, identify potential threats, opportunities, and challenges, and ultimately contribute to peace, stability, and security in the Middle East and globally. The institute will serve as a platform for policymakers to access expert insights and strategic policy recommendations on a wide range of defense and security issues.
Speaking at the event, His Excellency James Morse, President of Rabdan Academy, emphasized the institute’s commitment to advancing peace and security through meticulous analysis and active engagement with stakeholders worldwide. He highlighted the unique role that RSDI will play in addressing defense and security concerns that are often overlooked by existing think tanks, setting it apart as a valuable addition to the landscape of security studies in the UAE.
Morse also announced a strategic partnership between RSDI and the Middle East Institute in Washington, a renowned global research center specializing in Middle East and North African affairs. This collaboration will focus on defense and security fields, leveraging a network of senior researchers, academics, and experts to enhance the development and management of scientific research.
Naji Al Seiari, Research & Innovation Director and Interim Dean of Faculty at Rabdan Academy, expressed enthusiasm about the institute’s potential to establish partnerships with various international research centers, academic institutions, and organizations dedicated to addressing security and defense matters on a global scale. He highlighted the importance of engaging policymakers, diplomats, and experts in international dialogues to exchange ideas and visions.
The RSDI will prioritize several strategic research areas, including threat assessment, geopolitics, energy security, human security, conflict resolution, military capability development, defense technology, regional security cooperation, cybersecurity, and more. Through seminars, workshops, conferences, and expert analyses, the institute aims to provide valuable recommendations to policymakers, military leaders, governments, and international organizations.
The launch of RSDI at the ISNR 2024 conference, jointly organized by the Ministry of Interior and Rabdan Academy at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, underscores the commitment of the UAE to advancing security and defense studies in the region. With its focus on fostering international cooperation and enhancing strategic planning and decision-making support, RSDI is poised to make a significant impact on the security landscape in the Middle East and beyond.