The Department of Management Science and Engineering at Khalifa University of Science and Technology successfully hosted the 53rd International Conference on Computers & Industrial Engineering (CIE53) from 20 to 23 October 2026 in Abu Dhabi, bringing together leading academics, researchers, industry experts, and professionals from around the world to exchange knowledge, showcase innovative research, and explore emerging developments in computers and industrial engineering.
Held under the theme 鈥淔rom Data to Policy: Transforming Systems for Sustainability,鈥� the four-day international conference reinforced Khalifa University’s position as a leading hub for scientific research, technological innovation, and global academic collaboration. Organized with the support of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, CIE53 provided a dynamic platform for advancing research and strengthening connections between academia and industry.
The conference featured 170 research papers representing authors affiliated with institutions across 39 countries, reflecting its broad international reach. The technical program comprised 36 sessions across six parallel tracks, demonstrating the conference’s commitment to international participation and knowledge exchange.
Commenting on the significance of hosting the international conference, Dr. Mahmoud Al-Qutayri, Associate Provost for Academic Operations at Khalifa University, said:
鈥淗osting CIE53 reflects Khalifa University’s commitment to research excellence and international collaboration. Bringing together experts from 39 countries highlights our role as a global platform for knowledge exchange, connecting academic research with industry applications to advance innovation, sustainability, and the UAE’s knowledge-based economy.鈥�
The conference featured five distinguished research keynote sessions delivered by internationally recognized experts: Professor Stefan Minner from the Technical University of Munich, Professor Tinglong Dai from Johns Hopkins University, Professor Samir Elhedhli from the University of Waterloo, Professor O臒uzhan Alagoz from the University of Wisconsin鈥揗adison, and Dr. Horst D. Simon from ADIA Lab, Abu Dhabi.
Complementing the academic program, three industry keynote presentations were delivered by Dr. Souraj Salah from AD Ports Group, Mr. Mahmoud Nader from TAQA Energy Solutions, and Mr. Sivaneswaran Kannan from ADNOC. Their contributions highlighted the practical applications of research and the importance of industry鈥揳cademia partnerships in addressing complex engineering and operational challenges.
Beyond the technical sessions, CIE53 offered opportunities for professional engagement through a Meet the Editors panel, sponsor-led workshops, an industrial visit, networking activities, and a gala dinner and awards ceremony. These activities fostered meaningful dialogue, encouraged new collaborations, and strengthened connections across the international research community.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Prof. Yasser Dessouky, Editor-in-Chief of Computers & Industrial Engineering, praised Khalifa University’s hosting capabilities and the quality of the conference:
鈥淜halifa University provided a wonderful environment, with first-class facilities, for hosting CIE 53. The speakers engaged the audience with modern, state-of-the-art topics and presentations that were both informative and inspiring. A special thank you to Dr. Mecit Can Emre Simsekler for his tremendous efforts and invaluable contributions to organizing such a successful conference, and we hope to have the opportunity to hold another event at Khalifa University in the future.鈥�
Reflecting on the successful organization and scientific contributions of the conference, Dr. Mecit Can Emre Simsekler, Conference Chair of CIE53 and Chair of the Department of Management Science and Engineering at Khalifa University, said:
鈥淐IE53 brought together researchers and industry leaders to explore how data analytics, artificial intelligence, optimization, and industrial engineering can drive smarter decisions and sustainable solutions. With 170 research presentations and distinguished academic and industry speakers, the conference fostered valuable knowledge exchange and new opportunities for collaboration. I sincerely thank our organizing team, partners, speakers, and participants for making this event a success.鈥�
The successful delivery of CIE53 highlights the Department of Management Science and Engineering’s commitment to advancing research excellence, international academic engagement, and industry collaboration, while further strengthening Khalifa University’s role in convening the global scientific community. The conference also contributed to Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a leading international destination for research, innovation, and knowledge-driven events.
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