Greater Bay Area

The Greater Bay Area is a global hub for innovation, culture, and opportunity, offering Bristol students world-class study and cultural experiences in Asia’s fastest-growing region.

What is the Greater Bay Area?

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (“Greater Bay Area" ) is made up of the regions of Hong Kong, Macau and the neighbouring Province of Guangdong, home of two of the fastest growing cities in China: Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

It is considered one of the world’s “Supercities” with a population of approximately 86 million peopleand is known as “Asia’s Silicon Valley” due to its ecosystem of business start-ups, incubators and accelerators and also top 50 universities.

Home to some of China’s best food, markets and also new trends like 24-hour spas, the Greater Bay Area is also known for its shopping, ancient Chinese sites and a wealth of hiking trails and beaches.

In 2024, the GDP of the Greater Bay Area surpassed £1.52 trillion! (London’s was £617.915 billion in 2023)
It has the highest concentration of Fortune 500 companiesand is home to some of China's most innovative technology companies, such as Huawei, BYD, and Tencent.

What opportunities are there for me to go to the Greater Bay Area?

We have secured a limited number of tuition free places at Summer Schools at prestigious universities Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Guangzhou and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Guangzhou

HKUST GZ offers a two week cultural summer programme which will really immerse you in the Greater Bay Area and it’s culture. You will get the chance to visit local tourist spots, tour innovative companies and hang out with local students.

Two Bristol students enjoyed participating last year and we are keen for more to have this experience in 2026!

What did previous students say?

“I definitely recommend it, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I made several new friends – the university setting was so friendly. Feel like you’re at home very quickly.”

Further details will be announced in early 2026. Sign up to our Mailing List to receive updates directly to your inbox and follow @bristolabroad on Instagram.

PolyU is an internationally renowned university based in the heart of Hong Kong.

Their 4 week summer school offers the option of studying for across three academic themes. You’ll live in nearby university accommodation and have additional cultural visits and activities.