RAK Transport Authority Welcomes Emirates Scholar to Explore Research Collaboration

Ras Al Khaimah – His Excellency Eng. Esmaeel Hassan Al Baloushi, Director General of the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority, received a delegation from the Board of Trustees of the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies. The delegation was led by Dr. Firas Habbal, President of the Center, alongside Dr. Fawaz Habbal, Director General and Dr. Yousef Al Ali, in the presence of several officials from the Authority.

The meeting was held as part of efforts to strengthen institutional collaboration in the fields of scientific research and applied studies, aligning with the goals of the “UAE Vision 2031” and embodying the spirit of the “Year of Community” which seeks to reinforce knowledge-based ties between national institutions.

During the meeting, both sides discussed areas of collaboration in applied research, the launch of specialized research initiatives, and the formation of joint academic and peer-review committees. The discussions also covered the development of quantitative and qualitative studies based on the Authority’s operational data, mechanisms for publishing research outputs in peer-reviewed scientific journals, organizing scientific conferences, and registering the Authority’s staff as recognized researchers both locally and internationally — all aimed at strengthening the research environment and expanding institutional knowledge impact.

H.E. Eng. Esmaeel Al Baloushi emphasized the importance of applied scientific research as a strategic tool to advance the transport and smart services sector. He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to equipping national talent with research and analytical skills, while fostering an environment of institutional innovation to support the path of sustainable development.

For his part, Dr. Firas Habbal stated that the meeting marked a strategic step toward establishing a long-term partnership with one of the UAE’s leading transport authorities. He reiterated the Center’s dedication to expanding its national partnerships to produce applied scientific research that supports decision-makers and enhances the country’s competitiveness in research and technology.

As a token of appreciation, the Emirates Scholar Center presented the Authority with a copy of the Emirati Journal of Civil Engineering and Applications, in recognition of its support for scientific and research initiatives and its commitment to advancing national collaboration in service of the community and sustainable development goals.

The visit concluded with a field tour of the Authority’s Smart Control Center, where the delegation was briefed on the key digital systems built on scientific foundations and international standards. The tour also showcased several of the Authority’s achievements in the scientific and research fields.