Ibn Sina, the Arabic speaking humanoid robot, recently thrilled other passengers as Emirates Airlines flight EK817 was transporting one of the world's most advanced robots from Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Emirates News Agency (WAM)reported.

A first for Emirates, Ibn Sina the robot, travelled as a First Class passenger on the flight accompanied by Dr Nikolaos Mavridis, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the United Arab Emirates University College of Information Technology in Al Ain where the machine was developed, along with two of his assistants.

Able toverbally interact with people, Ibn Sina stunned fellow passengers as he was checked in at Emirates' dedicated First Class check-in counters and relaxed in Emirates' First Class lounge prior to boarding his flight.

The robot can recognize faces, understand and converse with people speaking in Arabic - complete with gestures, connect to the internet and retrieve information.

It is one of the world's most advanced humanoid robots.

It was accompanied by Dr Nikolaos Mavridis, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the United Arab Emirates University College of Information Technology in Al Ain where the machine was developed, along with two of his assistants.

It had to be cleared for travel by the Dubai Police Authorities, the Dubai International Airport, and the Emirates' safety team.

Ibn Sina was travelling to Riyadh to become the key exhibit at a conference and exhibition on higher education.

'The planning and integration of numerous Emirates departments is testament to our commitment to give every passenger, human or not, the best level of care and service possible,' Mohammed Mattar, divisional senior vice president of airport operations, was quoted in local media as saying.

'Ibn Sina embodies the forward thinking and innovative ethos of Emirates and we were honoured to have him fly with us.

'This was certainly an interesting challenge for the team however through careful planning Ibn Sina was successfully transported to his destination and we look forward to many more trips of the same nature.'