Dubai is set to reinforce its position as a global leader in the sustainable knowledge economy by hosting the upcoming Knowledge Summit 2025. Organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the event will take place from November 19 to 20, 2025.
Under the theme ‘Knowledge Markets: Developing Sustainable Communities,’ the summit will highlight Dubai’s strategic fusion of innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, which has established it as a benchmark for smart economies worldwide.
Policy and Vision Driving Economic Momentum
The emirate’s rapid growth is underpinned by forward-thinking government policies. Strategic frameworks such as the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision and the National Innovation Strategy have positioned knowledge as a central economic driver, supported by flexible legislation and attractive investor incentives.
Furthermore, the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) outlines an ambitious plan to double the city’s economy within a decade by cultivating talent, fostering new ideas, and leveraging advanced technology, aiming to establish Dubai as one of the world’s foremost knowledge markets.
The Bedrock of Digital Transformation
Dubai continues to invest heavily in its advanced digital infrastructure, which serves as the foundation for its knowledge economy. The widespread availability of ultra-fast connectivity, 5G networks, and the integration of AI across various sectors have created a fertile ground for both regional and international startups.
This commitment extends to its smart city model, which focuses on providing integrated digital services to enhance efficiency and quality of life, further attracting global innovators and researchers.
An Ecosystem Built on Knowledge and Leadership
The vision of Dubai’s leadership has been a critical factor in its success. As His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, stated, “Knowledge empowers societies to create a bright future.”
This philosophy is brought to life through a robust ecosystem of educational and research institutions. Prominent universities such as the American University in the Emirates (AUE), Khalifa University, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), and NYU Abu Dhabi are instrumental in developing talent and driving research that fuels the knowledge economy.
From Strategy to Tangible Success
Dubai’s strategic initiatives have yielded impressive, real-world results. The emirate’s fintech sector is now producing world-class, data-driven financial solutions, while its AI centers are successfully transforming academic research into globally competitive commercial products.
In addition, Dubai-based digital learning platforms are delivering specialized content to a global audience, effectively turning knowledge into a primary source of income, innovation, and job creation. The Knowledge Summit 2025 is poised to build on this success, fostering critical discussions to shape the future of sustainable knowledge markets.
About the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum with the aim of strengthening future generations and enabling them to devise sustainable solutions to facilitate the process of knowledge and research in the Arab world. The MBRF is committed to creating knowledge-based societies throughout the region by funding research projects, activities, and initiatives.
Source: Zawya
