Jouf University hosted the Twenty-Eighth Preparatory Meeting for Vice Presidents and Vice Rectors of Universities and Higher Education Institutions in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, with the participation of representatives from GCC universities, to discuss recent developments and emerging trends in higher education and scientific research.The meeting was inaugurated by Dr. Hamid bin Manawar Al-Shammari, Vice President of Jouf University for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, who welcomed the participants and affirmed the University’s pride in hosting this event, which supports the advancement of GCC cooperation in the education sector.The meeting witnessed words of praise from the participants, who expressed their appreciation to Jouf University for the warm reception and distinguished organization. Eng. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Rabie, Director of the Human and Environment Affairs Sector at the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council, conveyed his gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud — may God protect him — and to the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continuous support of joint GCC efforts, commending the level of organization and hospitality. Several university representatives from across the GCC expressed their appreciation, including Dr. Abdullah Al-Sharafi from Al-Baha University, and Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Shibli from the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in the Sultanate of Oman, both of whom praised the high professionalism of the meeting and the generous hospitality of Jouf University.Participants emphasized the importance of the themes addressed during the meeting, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence, innovation, and digital platforms, as core drivers for advancing higher education in the GCC. This was highlighted by Dr. Nasser bin Musbah Al-Zaidi from Sultan Qaboos University, who commended the meeting’s focus on modern issues in education and scientific research. In addition, several guests — including Professor Farid bin Ali Al-Ghamdi from Umm Al-Qura University, Professor Muslim bin Mohammed Al-Dosari from Majmaah University, and Professor Abdulrahman Al-Laili from King Faisal University — extended their thanks to Jouf University for its efforts in ensuring the success of the meeting. Professor Abdulwahid bin Hamad Al-Mazrou’ from Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University praised the vibrant atmosphere of the event and the rich history and generous hospitality of the Al-Jouf region. Professor Hanaa Abdullah Al-Naem from King Abdulaziz University also affirmed the significance of the meeting’s outcomes and recommendations.The meeting concluded with a joint reaffirmation of the commitment to continued collaboration aimed at developing higher education and scientific research, and strengthening integration among GCC universities toward a more innovative and impactful academic future.