His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah today received an Honorary Doctorate in Economics from Incheon National University (INU) in South Korea as recognition of his outstanding achievements in improving his Emirate’s economic fortunes.

His Highness Sheikh Saud delivered a speech at INU to an audience of students and faculty members to thank INU President Dr Dong-Sung Cho and the university for bestowing the honor on him.

Accompanying His Highness was Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi, United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Korea, Mohamed Ali Musabbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, Khalid Abdullah Yousef, Board Member of Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone and RAK Ceramics, and a number of other senior officials.

His Highness Sheikh Saud said:

“I am humbled to be here to accept this honorary doctorate in economics from this prestigious university.”

Speaking directly to the students present, he added: “Your university years shape your future, so it’s imperative that you pay attention, challenge established thought if you see an alternative and focus on how you, as an individual, can make a difference.

President Cho said:

“Today we take pride in recognizing the inspiring leadership of His Highness with an Honorary Doctorate in Economics.

“His Highness is someone marked by destiny to rule Ras Al Khaimah, and he has devoted his whole life to the development of Ras Al Khaimah.”

His Highness Sheikh Saud added:

 “At the time the UAE was being formed, our countries were on the cusp of economic prosperity.

“The subsequent decades saw both of us go on quite remarkable developmental journeys.

“Now, Korea is a G-20 economy – and a global leader in electronics and manufacturing. The UAE is a stabilizing force in the Arab world, a model for others to emulate. We have created thriving cities, diverse industries and we have welcomed people from across the world to join with us in our vision of a knowledge-based, multicultural society.”

“One of the ways in which I’ve improved knowledge and advanced education in Ras Al Khaimah is through the Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, a think tank that produces insightful research on the Emirate and the wider UAE. The Foundation’s research is vital to understanding UAE society and it also engages the community to ensure they are with us every step of the way … a part of our bright future.”

President Cho added:

 “Today we acknowledge His Highness’ vision and the change that he is inspiring in Ras Al Khaimah through economic development.

“We pay tribute to His Highness for his great leadership and devotion to economic development and societal innovation.

“I know of no one who is more passionate, more committed, more dedicated than His Highness in bringing great change to Ras Al Khaimah.”