Economic diversification and sustainability in GCC countries: the role of information technology

Umara Noreen, Attayah Shafique and Zaheer Ahmed

Chapter 5 in Economic Challenges in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, 2026, pp 90-108 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Information technology (IT) is pivotal in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries’ journey towards economic diversification and sustainability. The GCC nations, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, confront structural economic challenges hindering diversification and sustainability goals. This chapter delves into these challenges and the role of IT in addressing them, aiming to elucidate the interplay between economic diversification, sustainability, and IT in the GCC context. By employing mixed research methods, both quantitative and qualitative data are analyzed to understand factors like GDP, imports, exports, and employment across various sectors. Sustainability metrics such as the ESG matrix are also employed. The study reveals a symbiotic relationship between economic diversification and IT advancement, bolstering firm and national performance. It underscores the significance of long-term sustainable growth and recommends leveraging technology for diversification at both micro and macro levels. Ultimately, the findings emphasize the need for policymakers to prioritize economic diversification, employing IT as a strategic tool to foster growth, innovation, and global competitiveness in the GCC region.

Keywords: Economic Diversification; Information Technology; Sustainability; Digitalization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035358434
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