An Assessment of the Saudi Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Abstract

This paper analyzes the challenges of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. A quantitative survey based on a literature review has been conducted on 50 Saudi entrepreneurs. Recommendations to support the Saudi entrepreneurial ecosystem have been provided as a result of this work. The paper recommends improving university educational programs that encourage entrepreneurship, reducing the bureaucracy level with starting new businesses, and increasing the adoption level of new technologies. The study illustrates that government support, individual support, and education are the major factors influencing the entrepreneurship ecosystem. The top challenges were found to be the lack of individual skills, government regulations, society culture, and economic deterioration.