Governor of the Authority
H.E. Dr. Munir M. Eldesouki serves as Acting Governor of the Research, Development and Innovation Authority, bringing over 22 years of experience in research, development, innovation, and digital transformation in Saudi Arabia.
As research, development and innovation advance rapidly worldwide, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the guidance of its wise leadership, is taking confident steps to strengthen its global position in this sector. These efforts include developing research infrastructure, launching strategic programs and initiatives to empower researchers and innovators, and strengthening collaboration across the ecosystem to advance national objectives.
The Research, Development and Innovation Authority (RDIA) works to advance the Kingdom’s ambition to become a leading global hub for innovative solutions. Through an integrated and collaborative approach, RDIA places researchers and innovators at the heart of the ecosystem’s growth and development, creating an attractive environment that supports research and innovation and helps address local and global challenges.
Strengthening integration among research institutions, research centers, businesses and investors is a key priority for RDIA. This helps connect research and development outputs with the needs of industry and service sectors, supporting the translation of promising research ideas into products, services and solutions that advance knowledge and create economic and societal value.
RDIA believes that achieving the Kingdom’s ambitious national objectives requires joint efforts across the public, private and non-profit sectors. International experience shows that effective partnerships support the growth of the knowledge economy and establish innovation as an approach to addressing challenges across vital sectors.
At RDIA, we are committed to empowering researchers and innovators, facilitating their access to research resources and facilities, strengthening their partnerships with businesses and investors, and helping overcome barriers to translating their ideas into practical applications that advance the Kingdom’s ambitions, for the betterment of humanity.