In an era of rapid globalization and evolving trade dynamics, few voices in the Gulf region resonate with the clarity and conscience of Dr. Abbas Sharif Alaskari. A distinguished professor of International Trade Finance at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi and a long-time contributor to the UAE’s trade policy ecosystem, Dr. Alaskari champions a compelling ideal: that trade should be a force not just for profit, but for progress.

From Academic Roots to Policy Reform

Dr. Alaskari’s academic journey mirrors the modern story of the UAE itself — young, ambitious, and globally connected. With degrees from prestigious institutions including the American University in Dubai, Zayed University, and a PhD from UAEU, he has devoted nearly three decades to studying and teaching the complex architecture of global trade.

His doctoral dissertation, “The Role of GCC Ports in Modernizing Regional Trade Corridors,” remains a foundational reference in discussions about infrastructure-driven trade reform. But Dr. Alaskari’s influence extends well beyond academia. As the head of the Center for Trade and Financial Innovation (CTFI), he has become a strategic advisor to policymakers and a mentor to young entrepreneurs navigating the intricate world of cross-border finance.

A Voice for Ethical Globalization

At the core of Dr. Alaskari’s philosophy is the belief in ethical globalization — a concept that asserts the moral responsibility of trade to benefit societies, not just bottom lines. "We must ask not only how we trade, but why," he said in a recent opinion column in The Emirati Economist. “Trade should uplift communities, empower small businesses, and respect both local cultures and global standards.”

This worldview finds expression in his book Currency Currents: Risk, Regulation, and Reform in Islamic Trade Finance, which calls for inclusive, transparent systems that align financial growth with social good. He advocates for reforms that balance efficiency with equity — especially in the Islamic finance domain, where ethical underpinnings already offer a unique foundation.

Connecting Generations Through Education

Dr. Alaskari’s classroom is more than a lecture hall — it’s a launchpad. As a professor, he is renowned for his mentorship of research scholars and startup founders alike. Through initiatives like Hub71, he supports fintech innovators working on solutions for frictionless, fair cross-border payments.

His students, many of whom now serve in government and business leadership roles across the region, speak of his teaching with admiration. "Dr. Alaskari doesn’t just teach trade finance. He teaches us to think about who we serve," said a former student who now works with the UAE Ministry of Economy.

The Art of Balance

What makes Dr. Alaskari especially remarkable is his ability to balance intellectual rigor with cultural grounding. Outside the lecture halls, he finds inspiration in Persian miniature painting and falconry — two arts that demand patience, precision, and a deep respect for tradition.

In these quiet moments, perhaps, lies the source of his clarity — a reminder that while trade connects markets, it must also connect hearts.

Conclusion

In the ongoing conversation about the future of global commerce, Dr. Abbas Alaskari’s voice stands out — principled, practical, and profoundly human. As the UAE continues to assert its role as a trade hub linking East and West, his vision of ethical globalization offers a roadmap not just for economic growth, but for shared prosperity.