Dr Ebtesam Al-Ketbi is a distinguished political scientist, thought leader, and the first Arab woman to lead a think tank. As the Founder and President of the Emirates Policy Center (EPC), one of the most influential think tanks in the Arab world, she has been instrumental in shaping policy discussions in the UAE and the wider Gulf region. Her leadership at EPC has positioned the organisation among the top-ranked think tanks in the Middle East and North Africa. The centre’s annual Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate (ADSD) has become a critical platform for global discussions on security and foreign policy. Her extensive career in political science, international relations, and strategic analysis makes her a sought-after speaker for global conferences and high-level events.
With over two decades of experience in regional and global affairs, Dr. Al-Ketbi is recognised for her in-depth analysis and strategic recommendations on geopolitics, security, and diplomacy. As a Professor of Political Science at the United Arab Emirates University, she has contributed significantly to academic and policy research. Her work has earned her several prestigious appointments, including serving as a member of the Consultative Commission of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) since 2015 and as an Advisor on the Global Commission for Post-Pandemic Policy in 2021. Recognized for her impact, she was named one of the '50 Most Influential Women in the Arab World' in 2018 and received the ‘Women Super Achiever Award’ in 2019.
Dr. Al-Ketbi’s expertise spans multiple areas, including regional power dynamics, security threats, governance, and diplomacy. Her authorship of key publications, such as "The UAE’s Role in Empowering Religious Diplomacy" (2023) and "The UAE Power-Building Model: Mohamed bin Zayed’s Vision" (2022), further solidifies her reputation as an authority on the political landscape of the Middle East. Her insights into international relations have made her a regular commentator on global television networks and a key participant in conferences such as the Munich Security Conference, Manama Dialogue, and Raisina Dialogue.
Dr. Al-Ketbi is frequently hired as a speaker due to her deep expertise in policy-making, security strategies, and diplomatic relations. Her ability to bridge academic research with practical policy insights makes her an invaluable voice in international forums, providing business leaders, policymakers, and analysts with crucial perspectives on the evolving global landscape.
