MBRF and Arab Federation for Digital Economy Sign MoU to Advance Digital Skills and Knowledge Exchange
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Arab Federation for Digital Economy to promote knowledge exchange, strengthen digital skills and support the development of an integrated Arab knowledge and digital economy ecosystem.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation in institutional development, human capital development and knowledge-sharing initiatives in response to the evolving needs of the digital economy. The MoU was signed by His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, and His Excellency Dr Ali Mohammed Al-Khouri, Advisor to the Council of Arab Economic Unity and Chairman of the Arab Federation for Digital Economy.
The partnership aims to support the UAE’s broader ambitions to develop a knowledge-based economy driven by talent, innovation and access to knowledge, while contributing to digital development across the Arab region.
Focus on Digital Skills and Knowledge Exchange
Under the agreement, the two organisations will explore joint initiatives covering institutional development, knowledge and expertise exchange, information networks and knowledge programmes aligned with their respective objectives. Planned areas of cooperation include sharing specialised books and digital publications, supporting non-profit initiatives, promoting joint programmes through their social media channels and expanding access to educational resources.
H.E. Abdulla Humaid Almazrouei, former UAE Minister of Labour and Social Affairs and a member of the General Assembly of the Arab Federation for Digital Economy, highlighted the importance of collaboration between knowledge institutions and digital economy stakeholders in building an integrated Arab ecosystem capable of adapting to technological change.
He said investment in knowledge, digital skills and Arabic-language content would be important to developing a sustainable, innovation-driven economy centred on human capabilities. “Expanding cooperation in knowledge, digital education, and capacity building presents significant opportunities to nurture Arab talent and harness the potential of modern technologies. These efforts can accelerate development across Arab countries and equip future generations with the skills and capabilities needed to meet the evolving demands of the digital economy and the future,” H.E. added.
Jamal bin Huwaireb said the agreement would help strengthen individual and institutional capabilities through accessible educational platforms, training programmes and digital resources. “At MBRF, we are expanding our network of strategic partnerships to foster knowledge integration across institutions, enhance institutional performance, and develop world-class talent aligned with global standards of excellence. These efforts reflect the vision of our wise leadership, which places human development at the center of building a sustainable and prosperous future,” he said.
Dr Ali Mohammed Al-Khouri described the partnership as a step towards closer Arab cooperation in knowledge and the digital economy. He highlighted the need for sustained investment in people, stronger digital skills and wider access to knowledge, adding that collaboration with MBRF would support capacity-building initiatives, Arabic knowledge content and access to digital learning platforms in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and the region’s future needs.
Connecting Learning Platforms and Developing Arabic Content
A key area of the partnership will be exploring ways to integrate MBRF’s Future Skills Academy, developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the Federation’s Arab Platform for Education and Training. Potential initiatives include exchanging educational content, connecting learning pathways and coordinating certifications and training outcomes to provide participants with a more integrated learning experience.
The organisations will also explore joint initiatives to develop specialised Arabic-language content covering the digital economy and future skills. Scientific publishing and knowledge resources may be shared through both parties’ websites and digital platforms. Further cooperation could include digital capacity-building programmes linked to professional and practical learning pathways, knowledge events and activities, and increased participation in projects led by either organisation.
The agreement provides a framework for the two parties to combine their expertise and resources to expand learning opportunities, strengthen digital capabilities and support the development of knowledge-based economies across the Arab region.
