UAE leads Arab states region in Global Knowledge Index 2024
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as the top performer in the Arab world, according to the Global Knowledge Index 2024 (GKI).
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announced the results of the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) 2024 during the Knowledge Summit 2024 in Dubai.
This index serves as a global benchmark for assessing the knowledge capabilities of nations, covering 141 countries and evaluating various indicators related to education, technology, and research.
While Sweden topped the list overall, Qatar came second in the Arab region, securing the 39th position globally with a score of 55.5, while Saudi Arabia placed third in the Arab region and 41st globally, with a score of 54.8
Key figures at the event emphasised the necessity of fostering a culture of information availability and creative expression, particularly for youth.
Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari pointed out the role of educational initiatives in developing knowledge economies, stating that "the Global Knowledge Index is a vital tool for economic planning in countries worldwide."
Jamal bin Huwaireb praised the UAE’s ranking as an important indicator of national progress and innovation, noting that the GKI leverages scientifically validated data to motivate nations toward strategic improvements.
The index indicated particular strengths among Arab nations in pre-university education and ICT sectors, with Saudi Arabia succeeding in the former.
Ten African nations, however, were at the bottom of the ranking, with Chad occupying the last position. The GKI serves as a critical tool for countries to evaluate their readiness to tackle local and global challenges, enhancing their knowledge and development landscape in future iterations.
