Gallup Launches Social Research Centre in Abu Dhabi

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Crown Prince Court of Abu Dhabi and Gallup have partnered to create an independent centre for social research and analysis.

Building on Gallup's work in the field of Muslim studies, the Abu Dhabi Gallup Center (ADGC) will offer research on the attitudes and aspirations of Muslims around the world, while also delivering insights on the most important societal challenges facing the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Gallup exec Dalia Mogahed will head the new initiative as ADGC Director. During her career, she has worked as Executive Director of the Gallup Center for Muslim Studies (GCMS) in Washington DC, and co-authored the book 'Who Speaks for Islam? What a Billion Muslims Really Think' with John Esposito. She has also acted as Muslim advisor to the Obama administration.

Along with several Gallup analysts, Mogahed will relocate to Abu Dhabi to build the new institution, while the GCMS will continue to operate in Washington, DC.

'Our vision is for the Abu Dhabi Gallup Center to be a major source for cutting-edge research and foresight on the most important challenges facing Muslim societies today,' explains Mogahed. 'We are honored to collaborate with the Crown Prince Court to build this vital enterprise.'

The ADGC will open later in 2010 and serve as a resource hub for policy makers, thought leaders, and global media. In addition to its research studies, the ADGC will offer briefings, workshops, and seminars around the region and the globe.

Web site: www.gallup.com .