JEDDAH: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Digital Transformation Unit to develop exploratory projects and empower emerging technologies. The deal seeks to build beneficial ties between the two institutions as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Emerging technologies covered under the agreement include 5G technology, drones, autonomous vehicles, smart cities, robotics and more. As part of the deal, the NDU will develop research to support decision-making in digital transformation and the digital economy. It will also examine the use of emerging technologies in digital education and other sectors. KAUST’s role will target the knowledge-based economy and develop an effective model for guiding technology from initial research all the way to product provision. The university will also concentrate on new knowledge-based companies to enable local industry and the business sector to stimulate growth and improve technological competitiveness.