TLDR: TRENDS Research & Advisory has announced the winners of its second annual TRENDS Hub Scientific Research Award, which this year focused exclusively on artificial intelligence (AI) and its diverse applications. Shawkat Barakat, Dr. Iman bint Ali Al-Mohammadi, and Iman Al-Mutawa were recognized for their groundbreaking studies, receiving monetary prizes and publication opportunities.
ABU DHABI, September 14, 2025 – TRENDS Research & Advisory today unveiled the recipients of the second edition of the prestigious TRENDS Hub Scientific Research Award. This year’s award was specifically dedicated to advancing studies in artificial intelligence (AI) and its practical applications, underscoring the organization’s commitment to fostering innovation in this critical field. The initiative aims to promote innovation and leadership, support academic excellence, empower researchers, and cultivate healthy competition at both regional and international levels.
The advisory committee for the award meticulously reviewed 82 submissions before selecting three distinguished winners. Researcher Shawkat Barakat secured the first-place honor for his insightful study titled ‘A Comparative Analysis of Algorithmic Personalisation Using Ethical and Unethical AI: Impacts on Filter Bubbles and Critical Thinking Among Arab Youth Across Cultural Contexts.’ Dr. Iman bint Ali Al-Mohammadi was awarded second place for her research, ‘The Use of AI Technologies to Detect Suicidal Ideation in Online Communities.’ The third prize went to Iman Al-Mutawa for her study, ‘Towards an AI-Based Educational Model for Integrating Students with Special Needs into Mainstream Education.’
Each winner received a certificate of recognition along with a financial award. Shawkat Barakat was granted $5,000, Dr. Iman bint Ali Al-Mohammadi received $3,000, and Iman Al-Mutawa was awarded $2,000. Their pioneering research will be further disseminated through publication across TRENDS’ digital platforms and social media channels.
Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, emphasized the significance of dedicating this edition to AI. He stated, ‘Dedicating the second edition of the TRENDS Hub Scientific Research Award to AI research is a significant step toward promoting innovation and development in this vital field, which has become an integral part of daily life and a key driver in the advancement of multiple critical sectors.’ Dr. Al-Ali further highlighted that scientific research is crucial for developing AI tools and techniques, including improving algorithm accuracy and speed, enhancing big data analysis capabilities, and supporting self-learning. He also noted that specialized research can address security and privacy challenges in AI systems and improve human-machine interaction capabilities, encouraging researchers to present innovative solutions to current challenges in AI, strengthening its applications in healthcare, education, industry, economics, and social life.
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The registration for this edition of the award was open from February 9, 2025, until June 30, 2025, with the winners announced on September 9, 2025, coinciding with TRENDS Research & Advisory’s anniversary. The award mandates adherence to internationally recognized scientific research standards, requiring original, individual work delivered in correct Arabic or English, not exceeding 5,000 words (English) or 6,000 words (Arabic), and proper citation using recognized styles like APA and MLA.
