Global Knowledge Index 2025 Reveals Switzerland Leads Worldwide, UAE Tops Arab Region

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have unveiled the results of the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) 2025 during a special session at the Knowledge Summit 2025. The summit gathered global experts and policymakers at the Dubai World Trade Centre to explore the future of knowledge-driven development and the expanding role of innovation in shaping national progress.

His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, emphasized that the GKI represents a key outcome of the enduring partnership between MBRF and UNDP, reflecting a shared commitment to building a sustainable knowledge economy. The UAE's top ranking in the Arab world highlights the nation's belief in investing in people as the foundation for progress, according to H.E. bin Huwaireb, who reaffirmed MBRF's commitment to advancing the Index with international partners.

Switzerland leads the global rankings in the GKI 2025, followed by Singapore and Sweden. The remaining top ten positions were secured by Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Ireland, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and Norway. These countries are distinguished by strong innovation ecosystems and advanced technological frameworks that support knowledge creation and dissemination.

Regionally, the United Arab Emirates ranked first among Arab nations, reaffirming its leadership in innovation, digital capacity, and knowledge readiness. Saudi Arabia followed in second place, supported by sustained investment in education and technology, while Qatar ranked third, demonstrating continued progress across key indicators. The GKI shows notable improvements across several Arab states, particularly in technological infrastructure and the application of modern tools in development planning.

Dr. Hany Torky, Chief Technical Adviser and Project Manager of the Knowledge Project at UNDP, noted that the GKI aims to share best practices and help countries close performance gaps. He emphasized that universal access to knowledge is vital for building productive societies and underlined the importance of human-centered investment for sustainable development. The 2025 GKI reinforces the growing importance of knowledge as a cornerstone of national resilience, innovation, and long-term prosperity as the global landscape continues to evolve.

MBRF and UNDP reaffirm their commitment to supporting countries worldwide in leveraging knowledge as a transformative force for sustainable development. The Index serves as a critical tool for policymakers and development experts to identify areas for improvement and track progress in building knowledge-based economies that can withstand global challenges and drive inclusive growth.