The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, MBRF, kicked off its fourth annual Knowledge Summit on Tuesday, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 22nd November.

Held under the patronage of the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and the directives of MBRF Chairman H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the fourth edition of the Summit bears the theme, "Knowledge and Fourth Industrial Revolution."

The Summit attracts more than 105 speakers from 23 countries, who are set to present new ideas and perspectives on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, in addition to exchanging experiences and exploring best practices. The summit discusses the dimensions and key components of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, as well as its profound effects on all aspects of life, including society, the economy, academia and culture.

The Knowledge Summit 2017 looks back on the history of industrial revolutions and their impact on decision-making, as well as to the future effects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and its results and achievements in sectors such as media, technology, education, healthcare and the economy. Sessions will also take an in-depth look at advanced fields such as artificial intelligence and the future of human-robot relations.

It will showcase the results of the Global Knowledge Index, the first instrument of its kind in the world, which the Foundation launched in collaboration with its strategic partner, the United Nations Development Program, UNDP, to evaluate knowledge on a global scale. The Index enlists more than 131 countries and considers 133 variables, adhering to a set of strict rules and criteria for admissible data.

Day one of the Knowledge Summit 2017 also included the ceremony to announce the winners of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award, which honours individuals and institutions for their contributions to the production and promotion of knowledge around the world.

On the sidelines of this year’s Summit, the foundation is organising a series of events, including the inaugural Knowledge Week, which includes several knowledge-focused activities and enlists a number of government and private-sector entities. Knowledge Week began on 19th November and is set to continue until 23rd November 2017.