TRENDS Observatory — global data map, connected globe over Africa and Europe, and a family walking toward a lit city skyline with wind turbines and solar panels

Monitoring

Monitoring social transformations and emerging phenomena

Analysis

Evidence-based analysis of social issues and public attitudes

Research & Surveys

High-quality surveys and research to generate reliable data

Foresight

Foresight and scenario building to anticipate future changes

Policy Impact

Turning knowledge into actionable insights for better policies

TRENDS Observatory

For the Study of Social Phenomena and Changes

Trusted Social Knowledge · Evidence-Based Policy · Sustainable Impact

  • Social Trends & Behaviors
  • Social Phenomena Analysis
  • Surveys & Data Collection
  • Global & Local Monitoring
  • Knowledge for Decision-Making
  • Foresight & Scenarios
Cross-Sector
Collaboration
100+ Studies & Research
Projects
50+ Data Sources &
Partnerships
9 Focus Areas of
Social Change
Evidence for a
Better Tomorrow
Emirati family looking at the Dubai skyline, representing society and the future

Understanding Society.
Anticipating Change.
Shaping the Future.

The TRENDS Social Phenomena Observatory is a specialized research division of TRENDS Research & Advisory dedicated to studying social transformations and the issues shaping contemporary societies. Through social research, comparative studies, and data-driven analysis, the Observatory examines emerging social trends, behaviors, and challenges to produce evidence-based knowledge that deepens understanding of social change and supports effective, forward-looking policymaking. Its work focuses on the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf region, and the wider Arab world, while drawing on international research, comparative evidence, and best practices.

Explore More
  • Evidence-Based
    Research
  • Social Phenomena
    Monitoring
  • Social Trends
    & Behaviors
  • Foresight &
    Scenario Building
  • Policy Support &
    Impact

TRENDS OBSERVATORY OVERVIEW

The TRENDS Social Phenomena Observatory is a specialized research division of TRENDS Research & Advisory dedicated to studying social transformations and the issues shaping contemporary societies. By combining field research, public opinion surveys, comparative studies, and advanced data analytics, the Observatory produces evidence-based knowledge that enhances understanding of social change and supports effective, forward-looking policymaking. Its work focuses on the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf region, and the wider Arab world while drawing on international research and best practices.

  • Monitoring
    Social Changes
  • National & Regional
    Surveys
  • Social Phenomena
    Analysis
  • Foresight &
    Scenarios
  • Evidence for
    Better Policies

OUR GENERAL MANAGER'S MESSAGE

Sultan Al Ali, General Manager
“

Welcome to the TRENDS Social Phenomena Observatory, where research meets foresight to better understand the rapidly evolving dynamics of society. Through rigorous analysis, trusted data, and strategic partnerships, we transform social insights into evidence that supports policymakers, researchers, and institutions in shaping resilient, future-ready communities.

Sultan Al Ali

Sultan Al Ali

General Manager

Vision

A leading platform for understanding society's future

To be a leading research platform for monitoring, understanding, and anticipating social transformations, contributing to stronger social cohesion, evidence-based policymaking, and enhanced quality of life.

Mission

Trusted knowledge for sustainable impact

The TRENDS Social Phenomena Observatory monitors emerging social phenomena through rigorous scientific research that combines reliable data with a comprehensive understanding of social, cultural, and human contexts. By producing studies, reports, indices, and public opinion surveys, the Observatory provides trusted evidence that strengthens research, supports informed policymaking, and contributes to sustainable social development.

Core Values

The values that guide our research

Seven core values shape the Observatory's methodology in every study and report we produce.

Scientific Excellence

Applying rigorous research methodologies and evidence-based analysis to produce reliable, high-quality knowledge.

Objectivity

Maintaining independence, impartiality, and integrity throughout every stage of the research process.

Contextual Understanding

Recognizing that social phenomena can only be understood within their cultural, historical, economic, and societal contexts.

Community Impact

Generating research that contributes to stronger communities, improved quality of life, and sustainable social development.

Policy Relevance

Providing practical evidence and insights that support effective public policy and informed decision-making.

Foresight

Identifying emerging social trends and anticipating future opportunities and challenges.

Collaboration

Building strategic partnerships with governments, universities, research institutions, and international organizations to advance social research.

Satellite-style map of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula

ARAB SOCIAL INSIGHTS DASHBOARD

Explore social indicators across the Arab world

View Full Report

Reports & Publications

Access our latest research, surveys, data briefs, and analytical publications on key social issues.

View All Reports

Observatory Magazine

A specialized knowledge platform addressing current social issues from a scientific and societal perspective.

View Magazine