Photograph of H.E. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi with H.E. Abdulla Al Subousi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Italy

 

 

Within the global landscape of geopolitical analysis and strategic thought, His Excellency Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi stands out as one of the most influential and respected figures of our time. A distinguished academic, author and strategic expert, he represents a key reference point in contemporary discussions on security, national identity and international cooperation.

For over a quarter of a century, from 1994 to 2020, he served with vision and authority as Director General of the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), one of the most prominent think tanks in the Middle East. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in advancing a rigorous, multidisciplinary approach to the study of regional and global dynamics. He currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, continuing to provide strategic guidance at the highest level.

Academic Leadership in Service of Global Stability

Throughout his distinguished career, H.E. Al-Suwaidi has contributed to numerous advisory, scientific and executive councils, often holding leading positions. His work is characterised by intellectual rigour, strategic foresight and an exceptional ability to anticipate geopolitical developments.

His contributions have been internationally recognised through prestigious honours, including:
• Sheikh Zayed Book Award (2016)
• Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature (2016)
• Appointment as Ambassador for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation (2017)

This latter distinction reflects his enduring commitment to promoting a culture grounded in tolerance, moderation and intercultural dialogue, values of paramount importance in today’s global context.

A Distinguished and Influential Body of Work

Author of more than 35 books, H.E. Al-Suwaidi has successfully combined academic depth with clarity of expression, addressing complex political and social issues with insight and authority.

His work spans key areas such as:
• Gulf security and international relations
• the evolution of Arab societies
• national identity in a globalised world
• political Islam and contemporary movements

Among his most influential publications, “The Mirage” is widely regarded as a seminal work on the Muslim Brotherhood and political Islam, offering a comprehensive and analytically robust perspective.

Equally notable is “From Tribe to Facebook”, in which he perceptively examines the transformative impact of social networks on societal structures, anticipating trends that are now central to global discourse.

He has also authored and curated important works dedicated to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, highlighting his humanitarian leadership and strategic vision, thereby contributing to a narrative of significant international resonance.

Academic Formation and International Recognition

His intellectual authority is grounded in a distinguished academic background:
• Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science – Kuwait University (1981)
• Master’s Degree and PhD in Political Science – University of Wisconsin (1985, 1990)

In 2017, he was awarded the title of Professor of Political Science and Arts at L.U.de.S. University in Lugano, Switzerland, further affirming his standing within the international academic community.

A Vision Oriented Towards the Future

H.E. Al-Suwaidi’s recent works reflect a growing focus on critical global themes, including:
• human fraternity
• peaceful coexistence among cultures
• the construction of a more balanced and cooperative world order

In particular, “The Human Fraternity Document: Towards Peaceful Coexistence and a World Free of Conflict” (2023) stands as a powerful intellectual contribution towards shaping a more ethical framework for international relations.

Institutional Recognition and Honours

In recognition of the above-mentioned merits, His Excellency Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi has been awarded the prestigious Certificate and Plaque of “Recognition of Merit”, as a formal acknowledgement of his outstanding contribution to strategic thought, international culture, and the promotion of peace and cooperation among nations.

This honour was solemnly conferred by the President of the Golden Lion of Venice, Dr Sileno Candelaresi, and the Vice President, Dr Luz Adriana Sarcinelli, together with the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Italy, H.E. Abdulla Al Subousi, underscoring the high institutional and diplomatic significance of the recognition.

Furthermore, His Excellency Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi has been officially invited to the Senate of the Italian Republic on Monday, 12 October 2026, where, in a setting of the highest institutional prestige, he will be conferred the Golden Lion for Merit.On this distinguished occasion, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Italy, H.E. Abdulla Al Subousi, has likewise been invited, further highlighting the international and diplomatic importance of the ceremony.