Rabdan

Rabdan Security and Defence Institute

Manager’s Message

Manager’s Message

Greetings from RSDI!

It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to the website of Rabdan Security and Defence Institute, a beacon of strategic insight, innovation, and collaboration in these realms.

As the first think tank dedicated to defence and security in the United Arab Emirates, RSDI aspires to become a nexus where expertise, creativity, and foresight converge to address the most pressing challenges facing our nations, the region, and the global community.

The Middle East stands at the crossroads of some of the world’s most complex and dynamic security challenges. From traditional state conflicts and geopolitical tensions to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, terrorism, and climate change, the region faces multifaceted challenges that require nuanced understanding and innovative solutions. In this intricate landscape, the need for a think that offers a Middle Eastern perspective is more urgent than ever. RSDI seeks to fill this vital role by providing strategic insights that are not only informed by global trends but also deeply rooted in the realities of the religion.

Our think tank is committed to peace, innovation, and tolerance, the same core values as the leadership of the UAE. Using rigorous analysis, informed debate, and forward-thinking solutions, the institute aims to generate timely policy solutions that balance the UAE’s rich traditions and commitment to innovation.

RSDI is one of the very first think tanks in the UAE to be established as an affiliate of a higher-learning institution. Rabdan Academy draws upon its rich tradition of innovative teaching and research methods to educate the future leaders of the UAE. The school’s strength is its faculty, who are experts in a diverse array of subjects and come from all over the world. These academics will provide timely, policy-oriented research and analysis of the highest calibre, grounded in empirical evidence, and guided by objectively and impartiality.

We invite you to explore our work and join us in our mission to shape a safer and more secure future for all. 

Manager’s Message

Highlights

Insights
Insights
Federico Donelli
Federico Donelli

is tenure-track Assistant Professor of International Relations in the Department of Political and Social Sciences at the University of Trieste

Insights
Insights
Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris
Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris

is an Interim Manager and Senior Fellow Researcher at the Rabdan Security and Defense Institute (RSDI)

Insights
Insights
Dr. Nils Arne Norlander
Dr. Nils Arne Norlander

is an Assistant Professor at the Rabdan Academy in the Defence and Security Department

Interview
Interview
Sara Alzaabi
Sara Alzaabi

Journalist, Abu Dhabi Media Network, Aletihad- English

Insights
Insights
Dr. John Bruni
Dr. John Bruni

is the CEO SAGE International, Adelaide, South Australia for the Rabdan Security & Defence Institute (RSDI), Abu Dhabi (UAE)

Insights
Insights
Dr. Jacqueline Ann Grace Sebire
Dr. Jacqueline Ann Grace Sebire

is an Assistant Professor at the Rabdan Academy in the Science in Policing and Security Department

Insights
Insights
Dr. Kristian Alexander
Dr. Kristian Alexander

is a Senior Fellow and Lead Researcher at the Rabdan Security and Defense Institute (RSDI)

Insights
Insights
Dr. Olli Pekka Suorsa
Dr. Olli Pekka Suorsa

is an Assistant Professor at the Rabdan Academy in the Homeland Security Department

Security Assessment

We provide rigorous and timely security assessment in the Gulf Region and Middle East

Crisis Management

We provide up to date crisis projection, mitigation and management advice 

First in UAE, First in Defence and Security

The Rabdan Security and Defence Institute emerges as the first UAE based international think tank focusing on defence and security

Defence and Security within the Globalisation Dynamics

We project trends of defence and security industry in the contemporary geopolitics

Technology Infusion in Defence and Security

We analyse how technological changes impact the future of defence and security.

  • Security Assessment

    We provide rigorous and timely security assessment in the Gulf Region and Middle East

  • Crisis Management

    We provide up to date crisis projection, mitigation and management advice 

  • First in UAE, First in Defence and Security

    The Rabdan Security and Defence Institute emerges as the first UAE based international think tank focusing on defence and security

  • Defence and Security within the Globalisation Dynamics

    We project trends of defence and security industry in the contemporary geopolitics

  • Technology Infusion in Defence and Security

    We analyse how technological changes impact the future of defence and security.

Our Mission

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide analysis, research, and recommendations to policymakers on defence and security issues related to the Middle East. The RSDI will aim to enhance the understanding of the region's security dynamics and help identify potential threats, opportunities, and challenges.

Our Vision

To promote peace, stability, and security in the Middle East and beyond through rigorous analysis, strategic policy recommendations, and effective advocacy. 

Team

Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris

Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris

Interim Manager, Senior Fellow Researcher

Read Bio
Dr. Kristian P. Alexander

Dr. Kristian P. Alexander

Senior Fellow and Lead Researcher

Read Bio

Security Assessment


Security Assessment
Threat Assessment

Threat Assessment

The Institute conducts a systematic review of the current and emerging security perils facing the region, including conventional and asymmetric threats, such as terrorism, cyberattacks, and weapons proliferation. We also analyse the capabilities, intentions, and objectives of regional actors, such as states, non-state actors, and transnational groups.

Geopolitics

Geopolitics

Geopolitical research explores the strategic interests of nation-states, as well as the evolving relationships between states and other actors, such as international organisations and non-state actors.

Energy Security

Energy Security

The Institute studies the role of energy in international relations, the politics of energy security, and the economic and security implications of energy dependence.

Human Security & Conflict Resolution

Human Security & Conflict Resolution

This area focuses on the human costs of conflict and the potential for ending disagreements through diplomacy, negotiation, and other non-military means.

Regional Security Cooperation

Regional Security Cooperation

The Institute studies the potential for cooperation in the Middle East and surrounding areas, including the development of common defence policies, joint training, and exercises, and the sharing of intelligence and military capabilities.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity

We study digital threats and vulnerabilities, including the risks posed by state-sponsored attacks, cybercriminals, and social-media disinformation.

Terrorism and Extremism

Terrorism and Extremism

The Institute researches the nature and scope of extremism in the Middle East, including the evolution of terrorist groups.

Border Security & Immigration

Border Security & Immigration

This area examines the challenges of maintaining national borders and managing immigration and refugees, including the implications of border policies for national security and human rights.

Defence


Defence
Defence Technology

Defence Technology

We research the role of technology in national security and the potential of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and robotics to transform defence capabilities.

Civil Military Relations

Civil Military Relations

We examine the nature of interactions in the region between society and the institutions in charge of its defense. This study includes the role of the military in politics, the effectiveness of civilian oversight and control, and the impact of political instability on the military's role and functions.

Military Capability Development

Military Capability Development

We explore the defence readiness of regional actors, including the effectiveness of their policies, strategies, and doctrines.

Defence Industry and Innovation

Defence Industry and Innovation

We examine the potential of the regional security industry to contribute to the development of indigenous capabilities, including the production and acquisition of advanced technologies and systems.

Weapons Proliferation and Arms Control

Weapons Proliferation and Arms Control

We assess the production of conventional and non-conventional weapons, including nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. In this field we analyse the role of states, non-state actors, and international organizations in promoting or hindering disarmament efforts.

Emergency Preparation


Emergency Preparation
Disaster Risk Assessment

Disaster Risk Assessment

The Institute conducts a systematic assessment of the risks facing the region, including the likelihood and potential impact of various natural and man-made catastrophes.

Emergency Management and Responses

Emergency Management and Responses

In this area of research, we study the readiness of first responders and emergency management agencies, the availability and accessibility of resources, and the effectiveness of communication and coordination mechanisms.

Crisis Management


Crisis Management
Disaster Recovery & Reconstruction

Disaster Recovery & Reconstruction

We observe the challenges in the region of recovering from natural catastrophes and the opportunities for rebuilding, including the role of government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector stakeholders in restoring affected communities and infrastructure.

Risk Communication & Community Engagement

Risk Communication & Community Engagement

Another focus of the Rabdan Defence and Security Institute is the importance of identifying disaster risks and working with the community to reduce these risks and manage emergencies. This can include an analysis of the effectiveness of current communication and engagement practices.

Our Publication

We're excited to introduce Insights, the Institute’s publication series offering concise expert commentary on pressing security issues. Each 1500-word piece features analysis from leading academics, scholars, and Rabdan faculty, highlighting key developments in the field.

Contribute your insights — submit your pitch or inquiries to rsdi@ra.ac.ae. We look forward to collaborating!

Insights
Insights
Federico Donelli
Federico Donelli

is tenure-track Assistant Professor of International Relations in the Department of Political and Social Sciences at the University of Trieste

Insights
Insights
Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris
Dr. Wan Zokhri Bin Wan Idris

is an Interim Manager and Senior Fellow Researcher at the Rabdan Security and Defense Institute (RSDI)

Insights
Insights
Dr. Nils Arne Norlander
Dr. Nils Arne Norlander

is an Assistant Professor at the Rabdan Academy in the Defence and Security Department

Interview
Interview
Sara Alzaabi
Sara Alzaabi

Journalist, Abu Dhabi Media Network, Aletihad- English

Insights
Insights
Dr. John Bruni
Dr. John Bruni

is the CEO SAGE International, Adelaide, South Australia for the Rabdan Security & Defence Institute (RSDI), Abu Dhabi (UAE)

Insights
Insights
Dr. Jacqueline Ann Grace Sebire
Dr. Jacqueline Ann Grace Sebire

is an Assistant Professor at the Rabdan Academy in the Science in Policing and Security Department

Insights
Insights
Dr. Kristian Alexander
Dr. Kristian Alexander

is a Senior Fellow and Lead Researcher at the Rabdan Security and Defense Institute (RSDI)

Insights
Insights
Dr. Olli Pekka Suorsa
Dr. Olli Pekka Suorsa

is an Assistant Professor at the Rabdan Academy in the Homeland Security Department

Latest Events

28

Oct 2024
Project Management

Project Management

09:00 AM
Online-Microsoft Teams

22

Oct 2024
Dubai Helishow 2024

Dubai Helishow 2024

08:00 AM
Skydive Dubai, UAE

14

Oct 2024
Introductions to Information and Media Operations

9

Oct 2024
International Education Show 2024

International Education Show 2024

08:00 AM
Expo Centre Sharjah

Get in Touch

PO Box

114646, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Telephone

+971 25999111

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