emirates7 - The Knowledge Lounge, an initiative of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), is marking a decade of driving knowledge impact and promoting a culture of reading across the Arab world.
Since its launch, the initiative has organized over 1,800 sessions featuring more than 1,500 book discussions with over 350 writers, thinkers, and translators, engaging thousands of readers and enthusiasts. What began as a local reading group called “Ladies Lounge” has evolved into a cross-border knowledge event operating through 15 specialized groups across the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Australia, and Canada. In 2020, the initiative was rebranded as Knowledge Lounge to reflect its expanded, inclusive mission.
Beyond book discussions, the initiative has become a space for professional development, nurturing writers, publishers, editors, and knowledge content creators with practical experience in managing discussions and events. Its topics span literature, philosophy, history, science, arts, personal development, and business management, fostering a culture of continuous and diverse learning.
His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, said: “The Knowledge Lounge represents an exemplary model that elevates reading from an individual activity into an interactive social practice that contributes to building awareness, enhancing dialogue, and developing skills.”
He added: “We firmly believe that nurturing robust knowledge societies starts with reading and dialogue, and we continue to support initiatives that sustainable impact and contribute to a more prosperous tomorrow.”
Knowledge Lounge’s sustained growth is underpinned by a volunteer-driven model rooted in social responsibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it seamlessly transitioned to virtual sessions, connecting readers and writers across borders and reinforcing its adaptability. Community outreach efforts have extended its reach further, with activities organized in partnership with schools, senior care centers, and orphanages.
The Knowledge Lounge has also championed Emirati literature by spotlighting local authors and publications, strengthening the presence of Emirati books in the broader Arab reading landscape.
Since its launch, the initiative has organized over 1,800 sessions featuring more than 1,500 book discussions with over 350 writers, thinkers, and translators, engaging thousands of readers and enthusiasts. What began as a local reading group called “Ladies Lounge” has evolved into a cross-border knowledge event operating through 15 specialized groups across the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Australia, and Canada. In 2020, the initiative was rebranded as Knowledge Lounge to reflect its expanded, inclusive mission.
Beyond book discussions, the initiative has become a space for professional development, nurturing writers, publishers, editors, and knowledge content creators with practical experience in managing discussions and events. Its topics span literature, philosophy, history, science, arts, personal development, and business management, fostering a culture of continuous and diverse learning.
His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, said: “The Knowledge Lounge represents an exemplary model that elevates reading from an individual activity into an interactive social practice that contributes to building awareness, enhancing dialogue, and developing skills.”
He added: “We firmly believe that nurturing robust knowledge societies starts with reading and dialogue, and we continue to support initiatives that sustainable impact and contribute to a more prosperous tomorrow.”
Knowledge Lounge’s sustained growth is underpinned by a volunteer-driven model rooted in social responsibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it seamlessly transitioned to virtual sessions, connecting readers and writers across borders and reinforcing its adaptability. Community outreach efforts have extended its reach further, with activities organized in partnership with schools, senior care centers, and orphanages.
The Knowledge Lounge has also championed Emirati literature by spotlighting local authors and publications, strengthening the presence of Emirati books in the broader Arab reading landscape.
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