Chapter 8: Exploring Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the MENA Region: A Multi-Sectoral Perspective

This chapter aims to analyze the dynamics of entrepreneurship and innovation within the MENA region, specifically focusing on Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, and Qatar. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach, this chapter will draw upon theories from entrepreneurship, innovation, and regional development to understand the interplay between the manufacturing and service industries and their contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the selected countries. The MENA region, particularly Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, and Qatar, is experiencing significant economic transformation driven by the need to diversify economies and reduce dependency on oil revenues. Entrepreneurship and innovation are critical drivers of this transformation, fostering economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development. The focus on manufacturing and service industries reflects their strategic importance in these nations’ economic policies and development plans. The Country Oman is actively pursuing economic diversification under Vision 2040, emphasizing the development of non-oil sectors. The manufacturing sector, including petrochemicals, textiles, and food processing, is being strengthened alongside the services sector, with significant investments in tourism, logistics, and finance. These efforts aim to enhance the industrial base, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship. Whereas Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 outlines a comprehensive plan to diversify the economy with a strong focus on manufacturing and services.