Entrepreneurship ecosystem in the United Arab Emirates: An empirical comparison with Qatar and Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Entrepreneurial ecosystems play a crucial role in influencing economic development, productivity, and employment across the globe. This research seeks to compare the three countries; United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia based on their entrepreneurship ecosystem using the Global Entrepreneurship Index. In order to compare the performance of these countries across a range of entrepreneurial factors, GEI data from 2012 to 2016 shall be utilized. The section reviewing the literature focuses on the critical domains of Isenberg and the necessity to measure by indices such as the GEI. Prior studies in the area indicate that UAE has a favorable platform of policy support and financial backend. Accordingly, applying the GEI quantitative index, the study finds out that the UAE has remained among the best global performers and is evidenced by an enabling entrepreneurial climate in terms of policy support; financial; and culture and norms factors.