Dubai Hosts Ninth Knowledge Summit, Focusing on Future Skills and AI Economy

The ninth edition of the Knowledge Summit kicked off in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The event, running until November 19, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, convenes global leaders, innovators, and experts to share insights on the knowledge sector and future skills.

This year's summit, themed 'Future Skills and AI Economy,' underscores Dubai's commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy and leveraging artificial intelligence across various sectors. The event is jointly hosted by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), reinforcing its status as a premier global platform for knowledge exchange.

During the opening ceremony, the 2024 Global Knowledge Index (GKI) results were unveiled, with Sweden taking the top position, followed by Finland and Switzerland. The United Arab Emirates achieved the highest ranking among Arab countries, highlighting its progress in knowledge capacity. The GKI serves as a comprehensive measure of a nation's knowledge capabilities across education, scientific research, innovation, and information technology.

The summit also saw the announcement of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award 2024 winners, recognizing individuals for their exceptional contributions to science, knowledge, and innovation globally. Additionally, the event hosted the 3rd UNESCO World Open Educational Resources (OER) Congress for the first time in the Arab world, promoting international digital collaboration in education.

A significant development at the summit was the inaugural meeting of the Global Coalition for Skills Development, aimed at supporting the Future Skills Academy initiative. This coalition seeks to enhance national capacities and promote skill development among younger generations in the Arab region, preparing them for future opportunities.

The Knowledge Summit 2024 addresses critical topics shaping the future, including the impact of digital transformation on the global economy, AI applications in addressing future challenges, and strategies for advancing education and resource sustainability. By focusing on these areas, the summit aims to drive innovation and sustainable development, positioning Dubai as a leading center for intellectual advancement and economic growth in the knowledge sector.