The Sharjah Academy for Police Sciences has announced that 500 research papers from 14 countries have been submitted for the sixth edition of the Sharjah Scientific Research Award, underscoring the growing international reach of the initiative and its role in supporting security-focused academic work.
At a press conference held at the academy’s headquarters in Sharjah University City, the institution said the launch of the new edition forms part of its wider efforts to strengthen research and innovation in police and security fields, and to reinforce its position as a leading scientific platform for researchers, academics and specialists. The award, it added, is intended to generate high-quality studies that support the development of security work and keep pace with future changes and challenges.
Supporting practical solutions for security development
Major General Dr Mohammed Khamis Al Othmani, Director of the academy, said the award aims to reach carefully selected scientific studies with added value that contribute to improving the security system in the Emirate of Sharjah and across the United Arab Emirates by offering scientific and practical solutions in awareness, prevention and crime-fighting.
He said the nature of crime has changed rapidly in recent years and is no longer limited to traditional offences, with cybercrime and crimes linked to artificial intelligence now emerging more prominently. This, he said, requires the development of police capabilities and stronger specialised scientific research to produce innovative solutions that help raise awareness, prevent crime before it happens, and improve the efficiency of tackling it.
Growing international participation
Al Othmani noted that this year’s edition has seen increasing international interest, with around 500 research papers received from 14 countries. He said this reflects the award’s advanced standing and the confidence it has earned among researchers.
He added that the participating studies are being assessed according to precise scientific criteria to select the best research capable of offering practical, applicable recommendations that can support decision-makers, help reduce crime and improve the effectiveness of pursuing offenders when crime occurs.
Priority themes focused on future threats
He explained that the award covers several vital themes, including foresight, security management and strategies, criminal investigation, the analysis and monitoring of crimes in all their forms, as well as the development of security analysis tools. These areas are intended to enhance the ability to anticipate security risks and deal with them efficiently.
He also said the award includes a community-focused theme centred on spreading security culture and public awareness, in addition to topics related to crisis and disaster management and the mechanisms for prevention and response. Together, these themes aim to strengthen community safety and stability, while reinforcing the role of scientific research as a key pillar in the development of security work and in sustaining readiness to confront future challenges.