Hong Kong’s John Lee wraps up Saudi Arabia stop on Middle East trip at technology conference featuring ultra-real robot Grace from city AI firm

At a flagship technology conference in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, petite Hong Kong nurse Grace, with her kind eyes and pleasant smile, was often the centre of attention. But she is not human.

The ultra-realistic robot was among displays at the four-day LEAP conference, which kicked off on Monday. A few years ago, Grace’s “sister” Sophia took the world by storm after receiving Saudi Arabian citizenship, becoming the first robot with such status in any country.

Both robots were on display by Hong Kong-based Hanson Robotics, which is seeking to integrate its artificial intelligence-powered machines into Saudi Arabia’s smart city projects.

More Hong Kong technology firms have been venturing into the Middle East market by partnering with experienced local companies, while Chinese technology giants are ambitiously expanding their footprint amid deepening economic ties between both sides.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, on a week-long Middle East work trip, was among keynote speakers at the technology conference. In his speech, he promoted his government’s latest “Hello Hong Kong” campaign and efforts to lure firms into getting listed in the city.

Lee also met Amin Nasser, president and CEO of state-owned oil company Saudi Aramco during the event, according to a government statement. In the meeting, Lee said Hong Kong could play a pivotal role in providing comprehensive financial and professional services to the company, including supporting its listing in the city, handling any of its future funding arrangements and unlocking investing opportunities.