Decade of Global Influence: Knowledge Summit 2025 Poised to Shape the Future of Knowledge
The Knowledge Summit 2025 is set to usher in a new decade of global impact, reaffirming its status as a leading international platform that brings together thought leaders, innovators, and policymakers to shape the future of the global knowledge economy. Organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the two-day summit will take place on November 19 and 20, 2025, under the theme «Knowledge Markets: Developing Sustainable Communities.»
The event strengthens Dubai’s position as a global hub for strategic dialogue on knowledge development, transforming knowledge into an economic and social asset that fuels growth and innovation across all sectors.
Knowledge as the Defining Asset of the 21st Century
This year’s edition underscores knowledge as the most valuable resource of the modern age, surpassing traditional assets such as oil and gas. In today’s evolving economy, wealth is increasingly measured by a nation’s or institution’s ability to innovate and generate knowledge. Against this backdrop, the Summit highlights the critical importance of investing in people, education, and scientific research to build intellectual capital capable of driving economic and social progress through digital technologies, enhanced productivity, and disruptive business models.
Turning Knowledge into Economic Power
Marking its 10th edition, the Summit traces the journey from ideas to real-world impact, showcasing how knowledge evolves into dynamic economic systems that unlock new avenues for growth. Its high-level sessions provide a global platform for visionaries, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers to exchange insights and establish long-term strategic partnerships. Through its «Knowledge Markets» framework, the event demonstrates how intellectual assets and specialized expertise can effectively contribute to sustainable development.
H.E. Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States at UNDP, stated: “The Arab region stands at a pivotal juncture. The challenge of productivity and competitiveness in our region is closely linked to knowledge levels. Without a clear vision for knowledge and establishing knowledge markets that align supply with demand as the foundation for socioeconomic renaissance, our region will continue to face decades-long challenges of low productivity.”
Technology as the Bridge to the Future
The Summit examines the transformative potential of advanced technologies in reshaping the global knowledge landscape, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), advanced analytics, blockchain, and cloud computing. It underscores the need for strong ethical and legislative frameworks to ensure the safe, responsible, and equitable use of these technologies, protecting creators’ rights and narrowing the digital divide between nations.
Knowledge Markets as Drivers of Sustainable Development
Offering a comprehensive roadmap for building future-ready markets, the Summit positions knowledge exchange as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable growth. It provides guidance for youth and entrepreneurs seeking to translate ideas into scalable, productive ventures founded on innovation and creativity. The event also highlights the importance of international cooperation and public-private partnerships in establishing integrated knowledge ecosystems that enhance quality of life and embed innovation at the heart of sustainable development models.
A Decade of Knowledge Leadership
Celebrating ten years of global influence, the Summit’s 10th edition will feature more than 45 sessions and welcome approximately 130 speakers, including global thinkers, industry leaders, and development experts from over 100 countries. The agenda will explore critical themes such as the development of equitable knowledge markets, the future of data-driven economies, and key challenges related to intellectual property, education, scientific research, and innovation. It will also shed light on the role of advanced technologies in tackling pressing global challenges.
The Summit further strengthens the position of Dubai and the UAE as a global center for knowledge exchange and the development of sustainable future pathways. In an era of rapid change, it reaffirms the power of knowledge as a vital asset in the innovation-driven economy, where investment in intellectual capital remains the most effective route to building prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable societies.