This research has investigated the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) attempts to transition to a knowledge-based economy (KBE), in accordance with UAE Vision 2021. Using systems theory and based on...Show moreThis research has investigated the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) attempts to transition to a knowledge-based economy (KBE), in accordance with UAE Vision 2021. Using systems theory and based on interviews conducted with experts on the Gulf, this study focuses specifically on the pillars of education and innovation within the existing education system. The findings indicate that the UAE’s focus on improving its gains in the four pillars of education, innovation, ICT infrastructure and the institutional regime have yielded some progress over time. However, since the existing education system does not effectively address local obstacles on the national, institutional and cultural levels, the above-mentioned hurdles remain and continue to negatively affect the UAE’s journey toward becoming a KBE. As such, in accordance with the suggestions of key experts in education, it is important for the Emirati government to identify specific education-related challenges in order to address these local issues instead of focusing almost exclusively on global indicators.Show less
