On 15 April 2014, on behalf of the Australian Government, the Hon Andrew Robb AO MP, Minister for Trade and Investment, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Higher Education, Vocational Education and Training, and Research in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The MOU was countersigned by the UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan.

The MOU strengthens Australia’s relationship with one of the largest transnational education provider hosts in the world, with the UAE currently hosting 37 international branch campuses. A recent survey, released in April 2014 by Universities Australia, records 23 bilateral agreements between universities in Australia and the United Arab Emirates.

Australian providers active in the region include branch campuses of the University of Wollongong Dubai and the Murdoch University International Study Centre Dubai.

The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) was the first Western branch campus established in the United Arab Emirates in 1993. In 2013 UOWD conferred its 7000th award.

Murdoch University, established the Murdoch University International Study Centre Dubai in 2008 and reports over 500 current enrolments.

The MOU forms a basis for comprehensive Australian education, research and skills engagement, facilitating high-level and practical policy exchange with the UAE, enhancing recognition of Australian qualifications, and promoting increased institutional collaboration.