Objectives, challenges, and needs of an educational research and development center at Biyadh University, Saudi Arabia are discussed. Major objectives of the center are to cooperate with the ministry of education and other agencies in conducting projects, to foster research projects of qualified individuals, and to exchange information and experiences with similar international organizations. Problems of the institution include controversy over the nature of educational research, the nature of educational improvement and the stereotypical perceptions of educational research and researchers held by practitioners. Solutions include providing a broader definition of educational research, focusing on problems critical to practitioners, and viewing educational improvement as a comprehensive project. Ways to meet these challenges include institutionalizing educational research in every Arab nation; coordinating programs among the nations; understanding the variables which influence education such as psychology, economics, sociology, and anthropology; and to promptly report outcomes of research to practitioners. (KC)