Welcome to the Gulf Studies Center at Qatar University's College of Arts and Sciences. Since its inception in 2013, our center has been a beacon of knowledge and inquiry into the complex and dynamic realm of the Gulf region, encompassing critical areas of political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics through an interdisciplinary approach. Our commitment to deepening the understanding of the Gulf is rooted in a tradition of excellence, established with the launch of our unique Gulf Studies MA program in 2011, followed by the introduction of the PhD program. These programs are designed to foster intimate learning environments, promoting enhanced interaction and engagement between students and instructors. Our graduates are not just witnesses to history; they are active participants in shaping our understanding of the Gulf's identity through rigorous research and interdisciplinary analysis. As we look to the future, our vision for the Gulf Studies Center is anchored in three pivotal commitments:
1. Strategic Clarity: We will develop and articulate a clear, comprehensive strategy that aligns with our academic ambitions and research goals. This strategy will serve as our roadmap, guiding our initiatives and ensuring that every effort contributes towards our shared vision.
2. Resource Mobilization: Recognizing that our ambitions are only as achievable as the resources we dedicate to them, my administration will focus on mobilizing both our internal assets and external partnerships. We will seek to enhance our collaborations with global academic institutions, policymakers, and industry leaders to enrich our programs and expand our impact.
3. Commitment to Excellence: Our goals are ambitious and reflect our commitment to productivity, quality, and transparency. We aim to not only continue but also enhance our tradition of producing thought-provoking research and providing a transformative educational experience. We will hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards of academic integrity and operational transparency. In fostering these commitments, we will ensure that the Gulf Studies Center not only persists as a premier institution for Gulf research but also thrives as a vibrant community of scholars and practitioners who contribute meaningfully to the global understanding of the region.
I invite each of you, whether you are a student, a researcher, an administrator, or an enthusiast of Gulf studies, to join us in this exciting journey. Together, we will explore the challenges and opportunities of the Gulf region, and strive to make a significant impact through our scholarly pursuits. Let us move forward together, with purpose and passion, to achieve the extraordinary.
Dr. Maryam Alkuwari
Director of Gulf Studies Center