Important Facts of the News
- Saudi Arabia re-elected as MENA regional representative of the Global Research Council.
- Dr. Munir El-Desouki, KACST President, continues as the Kingdom’s representative.
- The new term spans three years.
- Unanimous vote during the Cairo meeting held from October 14 to 16, 2025.
- Saudi Arabia has represented the MENA region since 2012.
- KACST President serves as a vice chair on the GRC governing board.
- The Kingdom hosted the 13th annual GRC meeting in 2025.
- Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030’s innovation and knowledge economy goals.
Saudi Arabia Retains Leading Role in Global Research Council
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been reappointed as the regional representative for the Middle East and North Africa on the Global Research Council (GRC) governing board. King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) President Dr. Munir El-Desouki will continue to represent the Kingdom after a unanimous vote by regional research council heads during a three-day meeting in Cairo.
This fresh three-year mandate reinforces Saudi Arabia’s strong foothold in the scientific research sector on both regional and global stages. The decision reflects trust in the Kingdom’s focus on driving collaborative scientific work, enhancing joint projects, and shaping innovation-led growth.
Boosting Global Presence in Research and Development
The re-election significantly enhances the nation’s visibility in international forums on scientific progress. It also strengthens its role as a key contributor to global research, aligned with the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The milestone is a direct result of consistent efforts to foster an economy powered by knowledge and innovation.
Since joining the GRC in 2012, Saudi Arabia has been an active force within the organization, with Dr. El-Desouki also serving as vice chair on the governing board. The Kingdom marked another distinction by hosting the 13th annual council meeting in 2025, the first such meeting to be conducted in the MENA region.
Driving Future Scientific Advancements
Saudi Arabia’s ongoing involvement in the GRC underscores its commitment to accelerating cutting-edge research, promoting technological breakthroughs, and endorsing sustainable methods of innovation. The Kingdom continues to position itself as a reliable, forward-thinking leader in scientific development.