University of Wollongong in Dubai

The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) was established in 1993 as the first international Australian university campus in the United Arab Emirates.

It originated as the Institute of Australian Studies and was the first foreign university to open a campus in the UAE as well as the first Australian tertiary institution in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Initially, the campus offered English language programs and later evolved into a feeder college, allowing students to complete part of their business or IT degrees in Dubai before continuing their studies in Australia.

In 1999, UOWD became the first foreign-owned institution worldwide to be licensed by the Federal Government of the UAE. The campus was formally opened as the University of Wollongong Dubai Campus in 2000 and was officially incorporated under this name in 2004.

Situated in Dubai Knowledge Park, UOWD has grown significantly from its modest beginnings of five staff and eight students to becoming a reputable university that serves over 3,500 students from more than 108 countries.

The institution operates as an autonomous entity distinct from its Australian counterpart, while maintaining an affiliation with the University of Wollongong in Australia. UOWD is recognized for maintaining equivalency with the academic standards and curriculum of the main campus, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, and information technology.

Over its 30 years in Dubai, the university has become one of the region’s respected educational institutions, known for its global alumni network and commitment to innovative teaching, research, and community engagement. UOWD continues to play a significant role in delivering Australian-quality education within the vibrant and multicultural educational landscape of the UAE.