For the first time in the United Arab Emirates, stakeholders from across education, research, policy, and practice came together with a shared mission: to help build a more inclusive society.This landmark meeting, generously sponsored by the University of Birmingham Dubai and expertly organised by Dr. Shereen Sharaan, Head of Psychology Research, and facilitated by NeuroKinds, focused on defining national research priorities for the UAE. The aim was clear—to identify where evidence-based research can drive the most meaningful and lasting impact.

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A key highlight of the meeting was a panel discussion centred on lived experiences, emerging research needs, and neuroinclusion as an opportunity for growth and innovation. The panel featured distinguished contributors including Dr. Sameera AlObeidli, Berna Bouwer, Kevin Baskerville, Amina Alyafei, Tristan Lavender, and Adam McNeill.

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We were also honoured to welcome internationally recognised professionals, including Dr. Asad Raffi and Tristan Lavender, whose presence brought valuable global perspectives, depth, and inspiration to the discussion.

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While this gathering marks the culmination of months of collaboration and planning, it represents the beginning of a longer journey. Together, we look forward to advancing an inclusive UAE—one where policies are informed by high-quality, locally grounded research, and where progress can serve as a model for the wider Middle East.