Abu dhabi: The UAE has joined the International Science Council (ISC) for the first time, with the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) appointed as its national representative, marking a significant step in the country's engagement with the global scientific community and policy dialogue.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ISC is the largest independent, non-governmental international organization focused on bringing together more than 250 scientific bodies worldwide, including national science academies, research councils, and international scientific unions and associations. Together with the World Federation of Engineering Organisations, the ISC serves as a co-convenor of the Scientific and Technological Community Major Group at the United Nations, helping ensure that scientific evidence and expertise inform major global policy processes, including the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The announcement comes as the global scientific community convenes for Science Day 2026, a United Nations event co-organised by the ISC that brings together policymakers, researchers, and international organisations to strengthen the role of science in addressing global challenges. The ISC's newly adopted 2025-2028 strategy focuses on key priorities, including science diplomacy, evidence-based policymaking, and the evolution of science systems in response to emerging technologies.
Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary-General of ATRC, stated that the UAE's participation in this respected global community helps shape crucial conversations at a time when science and technology are central to economic resilience, competitiveness, and international cooperation. Through ATRC, the UAE's contribution to global scientific dialogue is strengthened, creating new opportunities to advance ideas, technologies, and partnerships that define future progress.
Within its role as the UAE's national representative, ATRC will coordinate engagement across government, academia, and industry across the country, ensuring a unified national voice in international forums. This includes supporting global efforts to mobilize expertise into policy processes, strengthening science diplomacy, and positioning UAE experts within influential international networks.
Salvatore Aric², CEO of ISC, expressed delight in welcoming ATRC as the ISC's first member representing the UAE. The inclusion reflects ISC's growing diversity and global reach and reinforces a shared commitment to advancing science for societal benefit.
The UAE's growing role in global science is underpinned by its investment in talent and inclusive STEM development. While UNESCO reports that women represent only 35 percent of STEM graduates globally, the UAE significantly surpasses this benchmark with women accounting for 56 percent of STEM graduates nationally, placing the country among the highest globally.
Through ATRC's membership in the ISC, the UAE is positioned to contribute to global scientific priorities and share practical models for developing diverse, future-ready talent pipelines while learning from international peers. ATRC's appointment complements its existing memberships in the Science and Technology in Society (STS) Forum and the European Association of Research and Technology Organisations (EARTO), strengthening the UAE's voice in global science and expanding opportunities for international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and participation in key policy discussions shaping the future of research and innovation.