Localisation of knowledge in GCC countries: The case of SMEs

Abstract

Localisation of knowledge is among the important challenges facing Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Knowledge is a key driver of modern economies impacting productivity, employment, wealth creation, poverty reduction and technology diffusion. Building capabilities for knowledge localisation entails appropriate business environments, effective institutions, skilled workforces and sound infrastructure. The role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is critical in building capacity for knowledge localisation and fostering economic growth. The aim of this paper is to shed some light on the contribution of SMEs to knowledge localisation in GCC countries