Glocalization of Tech Startups: AI and Emerging Technologies

Catalog description

This course explores how global best practices in startup development—particularly those leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies—can be adapted to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) context. Students will analyze and compare startup ecosystems across different regions, examining key enablers such as policy frameworks, funding structures, talent development, infrastructure, and cultural factors that shape entrepreneurial success. The course emphasizes a deep understanding of how startup environments operate globally and how these insights can inform the design of technology ventures in the GCC. Students will engage in comparative analysis of leading innovation hubs and emerging ecosystems, identifying patterns, opportunities, and constraints relevant to the regional context. Through applied projects, students will design a technology-driven startup concept tailored to the GCC environment, aligning with regional priorities such as digital transformation, sustainability, and innovation. The course integrates theory, ecosystem analysis, and applied entrepreneurship to develop students' ability to navigate and leverage global startup landscapes while building contextually relevant solutions.