nep-tur New Economics Papers
on Tourism Economics
Issue of 2009‒08‒02
two papers chosen by
Antonello Scorcu
University of Bologna

  1. Entrepreneurship in Oman By Yochanan Shachmurove
  2. Entrepreneurship in Qatar By Yochanan Shachmurove

  1. By: Yochanan Shachmurove (Department of Economics, University of Pennsylvania)
    Abstract: The Sultanate of Oman has a diversified economy, unlike many of its neighboring nations that rely almost entirely on oil revenues. Natural gas and several non-energy business sectors, such as tourism, fishing, light manufacturing, and agriculture are expanding rapidly. The Omani economy is one of the freest in its region. A relatively stable government and low taxes make Oman a desirable location for entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, foreign direct investment is welcomed. Tourism is the most attractive area for international entrepreneurs. Oil revenues, coupled with increasing foreign investment are likely to both diversify the Omani economic base and strengthen it.
    Keywords: Entrepreneurship; Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs); Business Ventures; Oman; Middle East; Oil; Tourism; Natural Gas; Foreign Direct Investment; Index of Economic Freedom; Oman-U.S. Free Trade Zone
    JEL: D23 E0 F14 F16 F23 F3 G2 K33 L26 L83 O1 O53 P1 P2 Q4
    Date: 2009–07–20
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pen:papers:09-026&r=tur
  2. By: Yochanan Shachmurove (Department of Economics, University of Pennsylvania)
    Abstract: The State of Qatar is driven mainly by hydrocarbon revenues, which are estimated to support this tiny country for hundreds of years. The Qatari economy is becoming diversified with industries such as manufacturing, banking, social services, and tourism. Additionally, government financed health and educational services have increased rapidly. However, the Qatari government is not able to establish necessary laws and procedures which business requires. Despite recent changes, Qatari laws and regulations are not always friendly towards business ventures or foreign investment, hindering economic growth. Furthermore, enforcement of existing business regulations and rules are occasionally lacking.
    Keywords: Entrepreneurship; Small and Medium Sized Enterprises; Business Ventures; Qatar; Middle East; Oil; Tourism; Natural Gas; Foreign Direct Investment; Index of Economic Freedom
    JEL: D23 E0 F14 F16 F23 F3 G2 K33 L26 L83 O1 O53 P1 P2 Q4
    Date: 2009–07–20
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pen:papers:09-025&r=tur

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