The meeting focused on building a strategic partnership that would allow both organisations to exchange expertise in areas ranging from economic analysis to policy recommendations for the private sector. TRENDS Research and Advisory, an Abu Dhabi-based think tank established in 2014, regularly produces studies on regional geopolitical, economic and social trends that have informed government and business decisions across the UAE. The Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which represents thousands of local enterprises, has been expanding its role in providing data-driven insights to members as the emirate pursues diversification beyond traditional industries.
According to the Emirates News Agency, participants reviewed opportunities for joint research that could support Ras Al Khaimah’s business community, including assessments of investment climates and sectoral growth forecasts. The chamber approved its own five-year strategy running through 2030 that prioritises attracting foreign direct investment, expanding the digital economy and improving the overall business environment, a plan that could benefit from external advisory input. TRENDS has concluded similar cooperation agreements in recent years with entities such as ADNEC Group in November 2024 and the Advanced Technology Research Council in July 2024, patterns that suggest a growing emphasis on applied research partnerships.
Discussions also touched on how combined efforts might produce specialised reports tailored to northern emirates’ needs, where industrial and tourism sectors continue to record steady expansion. Ras Al Khaimah attracted AED 771.5 million in new investments during one recent reporting period, figures that underscore the demand for reliable market intelligence. Both sides agreed to maintain communication channels that would facilitate future workshops, data exchanges and co-authored publications, the news agency reported.
TRENDS Research and Advisory operates offices and virtual presences in multiple countries, including a 2024 launch in Brazil, as part of its mandate to broaden international research networks. The Ras Al Khaimah Chamber has hosted events such as the Ras Al Khaimah Investment and Business Summit, which returned for a second edition in November 2025 and drew participants interested in the emirate’s regulatory reforms and incentive packages. Officials expressed confidence that structured collaboration could translate into practical tools for chamber members facing evolving global trade conditions.
The encounter forms part of wider UAE efforts to align independent research institutions with local business bodies, ensuring that policy advice remains grounded in up-to-date empirical data. No formal agreement was announced at the conclusion of the session, but both parties indicated they would pursue concrete follow-up steps in the coming months to define the scope of any eventual partnership.
