Emirates Leadership Initiative Research Fellowship
Emirates Leadership Initiative Research Fellowship supports scholars’ independent policy research on challenges in the UAE, Gulf, and Arab world to build regional capacity and advance evidence-based solutions.
Funder: John F. Kennedy School of Government
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (Applications open) | December 1, 2026 (Applications close) | December 15, 2026 (Recommendations) | February 27, 2027 (Decisions by)
Funding Amounts: $55,000–$75,000 stipend for ten months, depending on career stage; non-stipendiary appointments also available
Summary: Supports independent, policy-oriented research addressing critical challenges in the UAE, Gulf region, and broader Arab world.
Key Information: Fellows must be physically present at Harvard throughout the fellowship and generally take full leave from their employer.
Description
The Emirates Leadership Initiative Research Fellowship supports junior and mid-career policy-oriented scholars and faculty pursuing independent research relevant to the UAE, Gulf region, and broader Arab world. Administered by the Middle East Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School, it provides a ten-month stipend and access to Harvard’s libraries and other resources. The initiative is funded by the Department of Government Enablement — Abu Dhabi Government.
The fellowship aims to build regional capacity, advance scholarship, and identify evidence-based solutions with constructive, real-world impact. Research priorities include optimizing governance, increasing economic dynamism, strengthening human capital, and improving public policy design and delivery. Particular interest is given to scholars from the region who intend to return there.
