UK

King hails ‘fantastic’ climate technologies as he opens Dubai science campus

The King visited Heriot-Watt University’s Dubai campus ahead of the Cop28 summit (Andrew Matthews/PA)
The King visited Heriot-Watt University’s Dubai campus ahead of the Cop28 summit (Andrew Matthews/PA)

The King has described new climate technologies as “fantastic” during a visit to open a university science campus in Dubai.

Charles spoke to engineers and students at the new Dubai campus of Heriot-Watt University, which is based in Edinburgh, and was shown a host of technologies designed to combat climate change.

The visit is one of a number of engagements for Charles on Thursday, including several bilateral talks with world leaders, before he gives the opening address at the Cop28 climate summit on Friday.

Lord Cameron joined the king during his visit (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Lord Cameron joined the king during his visit (Andrew Matthews/PA)

After greeting well-wishers, Charles was joined on the tour by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron.

Greeting the King, Lord Cameron said he “would not have missed it for the world”.

Charles said new technology designed to capture greenhouse gases is “really encouraging” as he was shown several green inventions.

They also include fishing nets that can release fish if they are the wrong species, and new kinds of solar panels.

Charles also had a warm embrace with Scotland's First Minister, Humza Yousaf (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Charles met Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf at the campus (Andrew Matthews/PA)

Charles also met Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf, with the pair shaking hands and sharing a brief conversation before the King spoke to dozens of students and staff outside the building.

Before leaving, he formally opened the campus and unveiled a plaque.

Charles is meeting multiple climate and world leaders throughout Thursday before addressing Cop28 on Friday at Expo City Dubai.

He met with the president of Nigeria earlier on Thursday and will meet other world leaders as he promotes peace across the wider region.