MBRF Launches ‘Knowledge Lounge’ in China to Expand Global Reading and Knowledge Exchange
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) has launched its flagship ‘Knowledge Lounge’ initiative in the People’s Republic of China, marking another milestone in its international expansion aimed at promoting reading, intellectual dialogue, and knowledge sharing.
The initiative was introduced in collaboration with the UAE Embassy in Beijing and coincided with the successful conclusion of MBRF’s participation in the Beijing International Book Fair 2026. The launch forms part of the Foundation’s broader strategy to establish reading as a daily habit while supporting the development of knowledge-based societies through global collaboration.
The Knowledge Lounge serves as an interactive platform that brings together readers, researchers, and thought leaders to exchange ideas, encourage intellectual discussions, and explore innovation and creativity across multiple disciplines.
H.E. Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, said the initiative reflects the strong strategic and cultural relationship between the UAE and China while reinforcing the role of knowledge as a bridge between civilizations and a driver of sustainable development.
He noted that the launch aligns with the UAE’s commitment to fostering cultural openness, encouraging reading, and supporting innovation and lifelong learning through impactful global partnerships. He added that the platform is expected to strengthen dialogue between readers, researchers, and intellectuals across China while promoting mutual understanding between the two nations.
H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, said the expansion into China represents an important step in advancing the Foundation’s vision of making reading an integral part of everyday life.
He highlighted that knowledge transcends language and cultural boundaries, enabling the Foundation to build platforms that encourage learning, dialogue, and the exchange of expertise on a global scale.
Bin Huwaireb added that the Knowledge Lounge has evolved into a leading Arab model for building reading communities and promoting meaningful intellectual engagement. Following its international expansion to Sydney, Melbourne, and Toronto, the initiative continues to extend its global reach through strategic partnerships that strengthen the knowledge economy and support future talent development.
During the Beijing International Book Fair 2026, the MBRF pavilion attracted strong interest from visitors, including Chinese literary figures, representatives of international knowledge institutions, authors, writers, and specialists who explored the Foundation’s latest initiatives, projects, and publications.
Over the past decade, the Knowledge Lounge initiative has expanded across the UAE and internationally to countries including Egypt, Jordan, and Oman, operating through 15 specialised knowledge groups and lounges that promote reading culture, intellectual exchange, and lifelong learning.
