We are delighted to welcome the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research (AQF) as a Member of FORM.

As an international alliance of higher education institutions, research libraries, and other research communities based within the Arab region, we are comprised of a diverse array of stakeholder groups involved in the academic research and scholarly communications ecosystems. As a leading regional funder supporting education and accessibility across the Arab states, AQF is the perfect partner, and will help us in our mission to advance Open Science in research institutions and research communities in all 22 Arab states.

“We strive to make research accessible, particularly for individuals encountering financial barriers to accessing high-quality scholarly work.”

Dr. Natasha Ridge – Executive Director, Al Qasimi Foundation

Becoming a member of FORM means becoming part of an international community of Arab researchers and research institutions, championing the advancement of Open Science policies and practices, and working in a shared direction for positive change and more sustainable and inclusive educational models. Our members agree to:

• Recognise the diverse outputs, practices and activities that maximise the quality and impact of research, and where appropriate incorporate these diverse outputs into their assessment criteria.
• Support the development and implementation of Open Science policies and practices at their institution/organisation.
• Work to enhance the discoverability and visibility of Arab language research.
• Participate in collaborative community development activities and contribute to the growth of an Arab community of best practice in Open Science.

Our membership is institutional, and it is also free. Any research institution or research community based within the Arab region that wishes to support our mission and become a signatory of our principles can become a member. Non-profit organisations and non-profit solutions-providers working to support Open Science policies and practices can also become members. For more information on becoming a member, visit our Membership page.

AQF was established in 2009 to aid in the social, cultural, and economic development of Ras Al Khaimah, a northern emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Established through Emiri decree by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Foundation is considered a non-profit, quasi-governmental organization. For more information about the organisation, visit their website.