مؤشرات المعرفة: فجوة معرفية بـ”دول عربية” رغم القدرات البشرية والرصيد العلمي
The Arab world stands at a critical juncture, grappling with a significant knowledge gap despite possessing a young, capable population and promising scientific potential. Recent indicators from the 2025 Knowledge Index reveal a persistent disparity between the region and global leaders in the knowledge economy. Experts at the Knowledge Summit warn that failure to invest in knowledge infrastructure, research & development, and policies that translate knowledge into economic value risks relegating the Arab region to the sidelines of the future. This article delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the Arab world as it strives to embrace a knowledge-based future, focusing on the critical importance of innovation, skills development, and expanding knowledge markets.
The Widening Knowledge Gap in the Arab World
The Arab region’s ability to compete in the evolving global landscape hinges on its capacity to transform into a knowledge-based economy. However, the 2025 Knowledge Index paints a concerning picture. While some nations are making strides, a substantial gap remains between those actively pursuing robust strategies for the future and those lagging behind. The advent of artificial intelligence and digital economies only amplifies the urgency for Arab nations to adopt new development models centered on innovation and cultivating future-ready skills.
UAE as a Regional Pioneer in the Knowledge Economy
Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, emphasizes the inherent potential within the Arab world. He notes that the United Arab Emirates has demonstrably laid the groundwork for a comprehensive knowledge economy, underpinned by long-term strategic plans extending a century into the future. “The UAE operates with a precise and well-studied vision. Consequently, it consistently ranks highly in global indicators,” he stated.
He contrasts this proactive approach with nations that have yet to prioritize the knowledge economy and future-proofing, highlighting the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in urging government to anticipate and capitalize on future opportunities, rather than merely reacting to them. The UAE serves as a compelling model, showcasing successful strategies in infrastructure, governance, quality control and economic development. Sharing these experiences is crucial for regional progress.
A Platform for Arab Advancement
Bin Huwaireb views the Knowledge Summit as a vital platform for collective progress, arguing that a robust knowledge economy is fundamental to improving the well-being of Arab populations. “Without a knowledge economy, societies remain stagnant. With knowledge, individuals, communities, and nations flourish, as evidenced by global indicators,” he explained. He predicts continued advancement for the UAE, potentially surpassing many global counterparts, while nations that fail to embrace a knowledge-based approach risk being left behind.
The Need for Increased Investment in Research and Development
Dr. Abdallah Al-Dardari, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States, UNDP, highlights a critical challenge: the limited investment in knowledge within the Arab world. He points out the stark contrast between the region’s expenditure on research and development – a mere 0.02% of Arab GDP – compared to the 2% to 3% invested by developed nations. This disparity underscores the long road ahead in establishing a truly knowledge-driven economy in the Arab world.
He positions the tenth Knowledge Summit as a crucial juncture for reassessing the region’s standing in the race towards artificial intelligence and socio-economic development. While nations like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have shown promising progress, the Arab region still lags behind the global top ten.
Building Knowledge Markets and Sustainable Growth
Dr. Al-Dardari emphasizes the UAE’s success in building knowledge markets, not just in production but also in marketing and creating demand for knowledge. This, he asserts, is the pathway for the Arab region to overcome productivity gaps and cultivate a more competitive and innovative economy. He stresses that the summit reinforces a clear vision for the coming years, providing Arab nations with an opportunity to stride forward towards a genuine knowledge economy, fundamentally built on investment in knowledge itself as the cornerstone of sustainable development.
Expanding the Scope of the Knowledge Index
Dr. Hani Turki, Chief Technical Advisor and Knowledge Project Manager at UNDP, announced a significant expansion of the Knowledge Index this year, encompassing 195 countries – a 38.3% increase from the previous 141. This expansion solidifies its position as the most comprehensive index since its inception. The update also included restructuring the primary sectors from seven to six, focusing on areas integral to sustainable development and refining the evaluation system to enhance accuracy and comparability between countries.
Furthermore, the number of variables used in measurement was reduced from 155 to 115 to facilitate a more balanced approach while maintaining thoroughness and analytical accuracy. As a result, the index increases its value as a global benchmark for tracking knowledge and assisting policymakers in adopting policies founded on innovation and sustainable human development. Regular reviews, like those conducted in 2021 and subsequently, are essential to ensure the index’s relevance and reliability.
In conclusion, the 2025 Knowledge Index serves as a wake-up call for the Arab world. Addressing the knowledge gap requires sustained, strategic investment in education, research, and innovation, coupled with policies that foster a vibrant knowledge society. The UAE offers a compelling blueprint for success, demonstrating the transformative potential of a forward-looking, knowledge-driven approach. The future belongs to those who prioritize knowledge – and the Arab world must act decisively to secure its place in that future.
