Dubai: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Dubai Council, inaugurated the 9th edition of the Knowledge Summit, one of the world’s leading platforms for sharing insights and experiences on the future of knowledge and innovation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Summit, organised by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre and will continue until 19 November 2024. Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed emphasized the Summit’s role as a global platform for experts, researchers, academics, thought leaders, and decision-makers. She highlighted its significance in driving the exchange of ideas, addressing humanity’s
challenges, and enhancing Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovation.
The Summit plays a crucial role in fostering knowledge-based societies, emphasizing international collaboration for global progress, prosperity, and sustainable development. Her Highness stressed the importance of creativity in building economies rooted in knowledge and innovation, cultivating future generations of skilled talent, and harnessing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). By merging human ingenuity with technological power, AI becomes a key driver of progress and new opportunities.
Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the MBRF, highlighted the Knowledge Summit as a cornerstone among global events focused on knowledge and innovation. He emphasized its role in unifying shared visions and goals, positioning knowledge as a pillar for a sustainable future. This year’s theme, ‘Future Skills and AI Economy,’ aligns with the nation’s commitment to a knowledge-based economy and leveraging AI’s transformative power acr
oss sectors.
The Summit’s first day announced the 2024 Global Knowledge Index (GKI) results, with Sweden, Finland, and Switzerland leading. The UAE achieved the highest ranking among Arab countries. The GKI measures knowledge capacity across education, scientific research, innovation, and IT, introducing new variables to align with global trends. Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari of UNDP stressed the necessity of knowledge production for sustainable development, highlighting the GKI’s role in navigating the Fifth Industrial Revolution.
The Summit also honored winners of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award 2024 for their contributions to science, knowledge, and innovation. Additionally, it hosted the 3rd UNESCO World Open Educational Resources Congress and the inaugural meeting of the Global Coalition for Skills Development, marking significant milestones in advancing global education and skill development.
The Knowledge Summit 2024 brought together global intellectuals and experts to discuss digital t
ransformation’s impact on the economy, AI applications, and strategies for education and resource sustainability. The event emphasized innovative skills for the future labor market and fostering public and private sector innovation for comprehensive development. Sessions explored the role of human intelligence in technological advancements, AI’s impact on employment trends, and strategies for economic growth and social transformation. Discussions also addressed leveraging AI for space exploration, cybersecurity, and future-focused solutions.
