The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Knowledge, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, has unveiled the details for the new Knowledge Summit 2026, which it describes as a “special edition” of the summit. Scheduled for November 24, 2026, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai, this year’s event will revolve around the theme “Knowledge: Overcoming Crises in a Changing World.” The summit aims to honour knowledge achievements, assess the current state of knowledge trends, and deepen discussions on its role in supporting development and building more resilient communities in a rapidly changing environment.
Knowledge Performance and Recognition
This special edition will celebrate the winners of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award, highlighting their impactful contributions and achievements. In addition, the event will mark the launch of the Global Knowledge Index for 2026, showcasing key insights and developments in knowledge performance, development paths, and the challenges and opportunities faced by nations.
Future Perspectives
The next iteration of the Knowledge Summit is planned for April 2027, featuring an expanded programme that includes in-depth discussions and dialogues with intellectuals, experts, decision-makers, and specialists from around the globe. This future summit will focus on how to leverage knowledge in addressing crises, anticipating the future, and developing more flexible and sustainable solutions and models.
A Comprehensive Experience
Jamal bin Huwaireb, Executive Director of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Knowledge, emphasised that this year’s exceptional format reflects the foundation’s commitment to providing a comprehensive experience that celebrates knowledge achievements, analyses current knowledge trends, and promotes dialogue regarding knowledge’s future role in accelerating development.
He stressed that while this special edition focuses on recognising the winners of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award and unveiling the Global Knowledge Index 2026, the upcoming summit in April 2027 will serve as the primary platform for extensive dialogues on the significant issues affecting the future of knowledge and development.
Building Resilience Through Knowledge
Dr Hani Turki, Chief Technical Advisor and Director of the Knowledge Project at the United Nations Development Programme, affirmed that a country’s ability to overcome crises is not solely determined by its resource size. Instead, it hinges on the knowledge it possesses, along with effective institutions, human capital, and innovative technological capabilities that enhance resilience and recovery speed.
He elaborated that the importance of the Global Knowledge Index goes beyond merely ranking nations; it provides an in-depth understanding of strengths and gaps, translating findings into more efficient policies and investments. The launch of the new index will offer a practical tool for comprehending transformations and identifying work priorities, solidifying knowledge as a driver of sustainable development and a pillar for building more resilient communities.
Quality Initiatives in Knowledge
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award is one of the foundation’s key initiatives aimed at recognising influential contributions and quality initiatives in various fields of knowledge. It celebrates practices that enhance the production, dissemination, and application of knowledge to serve communities effectively.
The Global Knowledge Index continues to play its vital role in monitoring and analysing knowledge and developmental performance annually, utilising data and indicators to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities, while supporting decision-makers and stakeholders in crafting knowledge-based policies and strategies.