Frequently Asked Questions

ASTF is a non-governmental, non-profit, independent, regional and international entity that brings together Arab scientists from around the world to leverage their expertise for regional development while avoiding duplication of effort.

Four factors prompted the creation of ASTF: the science and technology gap between Arab nations and the West, the disconnect between Arab scientists and their countries' developmental needs, isolation among Arab research organizations, and the necessity for a unified umbrella entity for Arab scientific professionals.

The initiative emerged from a 2000 Sharjah University symposium on scientific research titled "Scientific Research Outlook and Technology Development in the Arab World" (April 24?26, 2000). Arab scientists recognized the need for unified organizational efforts. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al-Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Sharjah, endorsed the concept, with Sharjah selected as the headquarters location.

ASTF aims to become an influential Arab and international entity, supporting the efforts of Arab scientists while strengthening linkages between universities and research institutions, and attracting private funding for vital research domains. The Foundation aspires to safeguard the region's interests in science and technology, and help protect humanity from the negative impacts of technological change.

ASTF has five primary missions:

• Identify and support outstanding science and technology research in the Arab world
• Mediate between developers, funders, and beneficiaries of research
• Unite scientists inside and outside the Arab world to harness local and expatriate expertise
• Serve as the primary center for executing scientific programs and champion the region's interests
• Establish itself as a powerful international advocate for the region's interests in scientific and technological progress

ASTF pursues four primary objectives:

• Mobilize human resources according to merit
• Support coordinated research initiatives
• Organize expert meetings addressing developmental priorities
• Promote international cooperation networks advancing technological capabilities

Yes, ASTF operates according to the Charter approved by 50 distinguished Arab scientists in the First ASTF Meeting.

ASTF has a three-tier organizational structure:

• Board of Trustees ? Provides supervisory oversight
• Board of Directors ? Handles operational oversight
• Advisory Board ? Offers guidance on future orientations

ASTF focuses on four primary areas:

• Arab science and technology advancement
• Expatriate Arab scientific expertise
• Human resources development in science and technology fields
• Technology transfer initiatives

ASTF is distinguished by nine key characteristics:

• Autonomy through financial independence
• Responsiveness to the scientific community
• Convergence with institutional priorities
• Strong networking capabilities
• Flexible organizational structure
• Focused programming
• Financial and political stability
• Credibility for resource mobilization
• Impartial treatment of all Arab nations

ASTF's foundation rests on six key strengths:

• The Emiri Decree ensuring independence
• Endowment-based financial security
• Charter drafted by eminent scientists
• Rigorous financial auditing
• Distinguished board membership
• The UAE's neutral, transparent environment

ASTF operates through eight key mechanisms:

• Providing financial and technical support to research initiatives
• Selecting strategic research fields aligned with regional priorities
• Leveraging technology for development
• Activating business sector participation in R&D
• Establishing exchange programs for researchers
• Organizing scientific conferences and workshops
• Converting brain drain to brain gain by engaging the diaspora
• Facilitating international scientist networking

ASTF focuses on three strategic priorities:

• Offering research grants to outstanding projects
• Launching independent and collaborative research projects
• Establishing worldwide researcher networks

ASTF's primary source of funding is an endowment that began with an initial $1 million donation. The Foundation has set a target of reaching $100 million minimum, allocating 80% for operations and reinvesting 20% into endowment growth to ensure long-term sustainability.

All ASTF accounts undergo strict financial control through established auditors, with Board of Trustees endorsement. The organization publishes annual bulletins reporting investment outcomes, ensuring transparency and accountability.

ASTF allocates resources across six key areas:

• Scientific research grants
• Priority project participation
• Establishing centers of excellence
• Developing comprehensive scientist databases
• Creating internet portals for knowledge sharing
• Establishing specialized scientific committees

Two factors led to the UAE being chosen as ASTF's home: continuous high-level support, including a $1 million initial donation and facility commitments from His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, and a propitious environment featuring leading universities, international organizations, scientific openness, and world-class infrastructure.

Investment in Arab science and technology yields four significant benefits:

• Increased global market competitiveness
• Reduced dependency on foreign expertise
• Private sector growth opportunities through innovation
• Job creation through emerging industrial ventures