Doctoral Research Grants

The Doctoral Research Grants offered by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research are designed to support promising PhD candidates in conducting innovative, policy-relevant research that contributes to the social and economic development of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and the wider United Arab Emirates. The Foundation was established with the aim of encouraging academic exploration and the development of a strong research culture in the region. These grants specifically support applied research that can inform public policy and are open to scholars across a broad spectrum of disciplines, provided the research has a direct relevance to Ras Al Khaimah or the UAE. The grants cover a wide range of expenses associated with the fieldwork component of a PhD dissertation. Successful applicants receive financial assistance for return airfare to the UAE, furnished accommodation for a period of up to 12 months, a living stipend, and research support. This comprehensive package allows scholars to fully immerse themselves in their research without the burden of logistical or financial concerns. In return, recipients are required to produce one to two policy-relevant papers and engage in dissemination activities, including at least one public presentation or a podcast aimed at the local research community. Expected deliverables for grant recipients include a Final Report summarizing key findings and policy implications, a Policy Brief to inform stakeholders of the outcomes, and participation in a Research Majlis Presentation hosted by the Foundation. Additional scholarly contributions include either a Policy Paper or Op-Ed as well as a formal Research Paper suitable for peer-reviewed journals. These outputs are aimed at ensuring that research results reach both academic audiences and policymakers. Eligibility for the grant requires applicants to be enrolled PhD students in good academic standing at an accredited university. Applicants must have completed all PhD coursework and be ready to conduct field research. Proficiency in English is required, with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 85 or IELTS 6.5 for non-native speakers. Furthermore, proposals must be either approved or nearing approval by the applicant’s advisor and graduate program, and IRB approval is also mandatory. Only research with direct policy relevance and involving the UAE is eligible; disciplines such as engineering, computer science, business, marketing, agronomy, and laboratory-based studies are excluded. The evaluation and selection process for the grant is competitive, with only two awards made annually. Applications are judged based on academic merit and the relevance of the proposed research to public policy. Preference is given to projects in education, public health, economics, urban planning, environmental studies, and similar fields. The selection committee comprises the Foundation’s Directors and Advisory Board, who evaluate submissions through a multi-phase process involving administrative screening, peer review, and final approval. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle open in December 2025 and close on April 1, 2026, at 23:59 GST. All applications must be submitted through the Foundation's online grants portal. Required documents include a completed online application form, a two-page cover letter, CV or resume, transcripts, language proficiency scores (if applicable), the approved research proposal, a completed budget template, IRB approval, and two academic references. Notification of results occurs in late May, with successful applicants beginning their projects between June and September. For inquiries, applicants may contact the Foundation at [email protected].

Align your research with Ras Al Khaimah and ensure it has policy relevance; focus on education or public policy topics for stronger applications.