UAE: Sheikh Mohammed recognizes scientist for exceptional achievements in Chemistry
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Professor Omar Yaghi, a pioneering chemist from Jordan, has been awarded this year's prestigious *Great Arab Minds* award in the field of Natural Sciences, as announced on Monday by Dubai's Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Yaghi, currently a professor of Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley, was honored for his contributions to the field of chemistry. Sheikh Mohammed shared the news on X, commending Yaghi's remarkable achievements:
"We congratulate him on this scientific achievement and affirm that our region is rich with minds capable of making genuine contributions to human knowledge in various fields".
The post further highlighted Yaghi's revolutionary work in reticular chemistry.
"His contributions are considered pioneering and revolutionary in the realm of reticular chemistry. He developed innovative methods for linking molecular units to form open structures through strong bonds."
Yaghi's research has been transformative in the development of advanced materials like Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs). These cutting-edge materials have diverse applications, ranging from carbon capture and clean energy production to water extraction from air and chemical catalysis, making them critical tools in addressing pressing global environmental issues.
In addition to his research innovations, Yaghi has published over 300 scientific papers, with his work garnering more than 250,000 citations.
"Reflecting his profound impact on materials science and the development of sustainable solutions for a better future," the post stated.
The *Great Arab Minds* award, launched last year, celebrates outstanding individuals from the Arab world, recognizing their achievements and fostering confidence in the potential of Arab talent.
This year's winners also include Dia Al Azzawi in the field of Literature and Arts, and Professor Oussama Khatib in Engineering.
Sheikh Mohammed praised the awardees, emphasizing the region's intellectual wealth and the invaluable contributions of Arab minds to various fields of human knowledge.