IB Research Opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa

Abstract

This chapter aims to give an overview of emerging themes of research currently not on the international business (IB) community radar. As the founder of the Middle East North Africa Chapter for the Academy of International Business, it is observed that since 2009 the research and publishing situation, while improving, still has a long way to go. Not only have I been spearheading the teaching and research agenda in IB in the region, but my experience is multi-sectoral, working with academia, industry, and government. This experience gives me the advantage of a bird’s eye view of an emerging topic that may become more relevant with time. The historical discourse often opined by western scholars may not be applicable in a region like ours or other emerging markets. This overview analyzes decades of experience in the field and observations of publications in leading IB journals. By addressing some of the knowledge gaps, I hope that we can create a more inclusive research agenda. The MENA region is strategic from an IB perspective since it 1.is a significant trade and logistics route2.has a significant population 3.is the heart of international affairs. I will briefly deconstruct the perception of the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region. Then I will present new areas of research relevant to international business in the region but not captured in current IB publications. Finally, I will offer recommendations to remedy the situation by adding more promising topics to the IB research agenda.