The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) is one of the UAE's oldest and most prestigious universities. Established in 1993 by the University of Wollongong in Australia, currently ranked in the leading universities in the world, UOWD represented a very early Australian initiative in the Gulf region. From a small beginning opposite Al Mulla Plaza, through its landmark presence on Jumeirah Road to its current location at Dubai Knowledge Village, UOWD is now recognized as being an integral part of Dubai.