Global Knowledge Index 2025 Results Reveal Switzerland Leads Worldwide, UAE Tops Arab Region

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) unveiled the results of the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) 2025 during a special session at the Knowledge Summit 2025. The Summit gathered global experts and policymakers to explore the future of knowledge-driven development and the expanding role of innovation in shaping national progress. His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, emphasized that the GKI is a key outcome of the enduring partnership between MBRF and UNDP, reflecting a shared commitment to building a sustainable knowledge economy.

The top 10 countries globally in the GKI 2025 were led by Switzerland, followed by Singapore and Sweden. The remaining positions were secured by Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Ireland, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and Norway, countries distinguished by strong innovation ecosystems and advanced technological frameworks. These nations demonstrate how robust knowledge infrastructure contributes to economic resilience and competitive advantage in the global marketplace.

Regionally, the United Arab Emirates ranked first among Arab nations, reaffirming its leadership in innovation, digital capacity, and knowledge readiness. Saudi Arabia followed in second place, supported by sustained investment in education and technology, while Qatar ranked third, demonstrating continued progress across key indicators. The GKI shows notable improvements across several Arab states, particularly in technological infrastructure and the application of modern tools in development planning. This regional progress indicates a growing recognition of knowledge as a fundamental driver of economic diversification and social advancement.

Dr. Hany Torky, Chief Technical Adviser and Project Manager, Knowledge Project – UNDP, noted that the GKI aims to share best practices and help countries close performance gaps, emphasizing that universal access to knowledge is vital for building productive societies. He also underlined the importance of human-centered investment for sustainable development. The index serves as a comprehensive tool for policymakers to identify strengths and weaknesses in their national knowledge ecosystems, enabling more targeted investments in education, research, and innovation infrastructure.

As the global landscape continues to evolve, the 2025 GKI reinforces the growing importance of knowledge as a cornerstone of national resilience, innovation, and long-term prosperity. MBRF and UNDP reaffirm their commitment to supporting countries worldwide in leveraging knowledge as a transformative force for sustainable development. The findings underscore that nations prioritizing knowledge development are better positioned to navigate economic transitions, technological disruptions, and global challenges while creating more inclusive and sustainable growth pathways for their citizens.