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The Co-operative Education Programme from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Co-op@CUHK) recently organised a week-long field trip for 40 undergraduate students to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The visit provided students the chance to explore one of the Middle East’s most dynamic economic hubs, offering first-hand exposure to local culture, businesses and innovative development. The initiative aimed to broaden students’ global perspectives and intercultural communication skills in preparation for the globalised workplace.

Cross-sector partnerships enhance exchange

The field trip received strong support from the Consulate General of the UAE in Hong Kong and various overseas partners. Before departure, Professor Isabella Poon Wai-yin, Provost of CUHK and H.E. Shaikh Saoud Ali Almualla, Consul General of the UAE in Hong Kong attended a briefing session with students. During the session, H.E. Shaikh Saoud Ali Almualla provided an in-depth overview of the UAE’s socio-economic landscape, urban development initiatives and cultural etiquette, helping students build essential knowledge for the field trip.

The participating students came from various disciplines, including English, Law, Medicine, Economics, Computer Science, Cultural Studies, Business Administration, and Journalism and Communication. This multidisciplinary approach encouraged innovative thinking. During the trip, students visited government-affiliated entities, universities, private enterprises and other institutions, allowing them to gain insights into local market dynamics and career prospects while engaging with industry leaders.

Comprehensive learning experience showcases the UAE’s diverse landscape

The itinerary included Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Highlights included visits of Hub 71 and the Archireef Eco-Engineering Facility, where students learned about the Gulf region’s thriving innovation and technology ecosystem. In addition, representatives of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai also shared insights on the UAE’s business envirornment.

At Zayed University in Dubai and New York University (NYU) Abu Dhabi, students engaged with local students, alumni and faculty members to gain understanding of study, work and life in the UAE. Students also dived into the UAE’s rich cultural heritage through visits to the Museum of the Future and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, while a crash course in Arabic further enriched their experience of cultural immersion.

Janson Lui, a year two law student, said: “This trip showed me that modern development and traditional cultural values can coexist. NYU Abu Dhabi was a great example – its culture blends forward-looking learn-abroad programmes with local traditions within their school community. I also learned to step out of my comfort zone, think outside the box and take initiative to explore new realms. It was a journey of learning, appreciation, embracing and immersing Arabic culture.”

Iris Jiang, a year four global communication student, said: “I was impressed by their flexibility in business and lifestyle – quite different from other traditional economies. We visited various companies, from government institutions to startups, and learned about their business models and roles in the region. We also had the chance to connect with people along the way, including local students and a Sudanese professional who is building a new career abroad. Their stories opened my eyes to the possibilities of global career development.”

Nurturing future-ready global citizens

CUHK is committed to offering experiential learning opportunities that help students adapt to an increasingly interconnected world. This field trip not only aligns with the Hong Kong government’s trade and investment plans for the UAE and other Belt and Road economies, but also creates opportunities for students to engage with emerging markets, strengthen bilateral relations, foster international understanding and create opportunities for ongoing collaboration and mutual success.