Global Leaders Convene at 10th Knowledge Summit to Build Sustainable Knowledge Economies

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) has inaugurated the 10th edition of the Knowledge Summit at the Dubai World Trade Centre, organized in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This global platform, held under the theme 'Knowledge Markets: Developing Sustainable Communities,' brings together ministers, dignitaries, and senior officials to address the critical role of knowledge in driving sustainable development worldwide.

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, officially opened the summit, which continues through November 20. The event underscores the UAE's commitment to establishing a knowledge-based economy and reinforces the importance of international collaboration in addressing global development challenges. According to MBRF CEO Jamal bin Huwaireb, the summit has evolved over the past decade into a premier gathering for creative minds and decision-makers, solidifying knowledge's role as a catalyst for human development and future prosperity.

United Nations officials emphasized the transformative power of knowledge in today's global landscape. Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), highlighted that "knowledge is a driving force of human advancement" during her opening remarks. She noted that MBRF's commitment to advancing knowledge movements aligns with broader efforts to build sustainable economies, stating that transforming visions into reality requires "innovation, courage, and belief in ideas that shape a better future."

Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Arab States, provided crucial context about knowledge's evolving role, explaining that "knowledge is no longer confined to academic institutions or research facilities, as it has become a strategic asset that defines a country's position in the new global order and opens unprecedented avenues for sustainable development." This perspective underscores why events like the Knowledge Summit matter for national competitiveness and global development.

The summit's opening ceremony featured the announcement of the ninth edition of the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) 2025 results, available at https://www.mbrf.ae/knowledge-summit, with Switzerland ranking first globally, followed by Singapore and Sweden. The United Arab Emirates led Arab nations in the index, with Saudi Arabia and Qatar following in second and third positions respectively. These rankings provide valuable benchmarks for countries seeking to improve their knowledge infrastructure and economic positioning.

The first day of programming included diverse panel discussions, interactive dialogues, and workshops led by international specialists, experts, academics, and decision-makers. Sessions explored critical themes including knowledge markets, innovation, sustainability, community development, technology, education, environmental concerns, and knowledge governance. The comprehensive agenda addresses how knowledge economies can drive sustainable community development across multiple sectors and regions.

This gathering represents a significant opportunity for cross-border knowledge exchange at a time when sustainable development challenges require innovative, knowledge-driven solutions. The partnership between MBRF and UNDP, detailed at https://www.undp.org/arab-states, demonstrates how multilateral cooperation can advance global knowledge sharing and economic transformation. As countries worldwide seek to build resilient, knowledge-based economies, the insights and collaborations emerging from this summit could shape development strategies for years to come.