A high-level delegation from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) concluded a successful trip to Abu Dhabi and Dubai last week.. Led by HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP, the delegation established valuable ties and partnerships with prominent institutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to foster education, research, and innovation. 
The visit took place during the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road (B&R) initiative when both the Hong Kong government and HKUST had pledged to enhance cooperation in areas such as innovation and technology, and investment and infrastructure development with key B&R members such as the UAE. This is the first visit from Hong Kong's higher education sector following Hong Kong Chief Executive John LEE's delegation to the region last year.
During the four-day trip between April 15 and 18, the HKUST delegation engaged with prominent institutions and organizations including the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), the University of Sharjah, Khalifa University of Science and Technology (KU), the United Arab Emirates University, and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. Discussions focused on research collaboration, technology transfer, and talent development in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, medical technology, clean energy, and start-up incubation. The delegation also had the privilege of meeting Mr. ZHANG Yiming, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the UAE. Additionally, an alumni gathering was held to strengthen ties with HKUST alumni in the region
Additionally, an alumni gathering was held to strengthen ties with HKUST alumni in the region
Other HKUST delegates included Prof. WANG Yang, Vice-President for Institutional Advancement, Ms. Daisy CHAN, Associate Vice-President (Global Engagement and Communications), Prof. WANG Yu-Hsing, Associate Dean (Undergraduate Studies) of School of Engineering, and Prof. ZHOU Xiaofang, Head of Department of Computer Science and Engineering.
Prof Nancy Ip described the trip as fruitful and rewarding. "During the visit, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable progress and investment the UAE has made in innovation and knowledge transfer, which aligns closely with Hong Kong's own advancements. I am excited about the many ways HKUST, with our unique edge in innovation, AI and entrepreneurship, can work with partners in the UAE to drive technology advancements in the region while fostering academic cooperation," she said
I am excited about the many ways HKUST, with our unique edge in innovation, AI and entrepreneurship, can work with partners in the UAE to drive technology advancements in the region while fostering academic cooperation," she said

Source prnewswire