Navigating the Digital Landscape: Factors Shaping Entrepreneurial Dynamics in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors impacting entrepreneurial intentions, behaviors, innovations, and senses of self-efficacy in the digital entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Through illuminating the roles of ecosystem, entrepreneurial intention, innovation, and education, the study aspires to provide insights into the distinctive dynamics of digital entrepreneurship in this geographical setting. The study makes use of both qualitative in-depth interviews with subject matter experts and quantitative statistical analysis of survey responses. The Saudi digital entrepreneur ecosystem is explored qualitatively through 15 in-depth interviews with industry experts, and quantitatively with 248 survey responses that allow for hypothesis testing using structural equation modeling. The quantitative data in this study was analyzed using PLS-SEM. The results emphasize the mediating roles of entrepreneurial ambition and innovation, highlighting the key significance of the digital entrepreneurial ecosystem in driving entrepreneur behavior. Entrepreneurial education emerges as a powerful element, acting as both a moderator in shaping entrepreneurial success. The research provides useful information about the unique characteristics of digital entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia.

Keywords

• entrepreneurship
• ecosystem
• intention
• innovation
• digital ecosystem
• entrepreneurial education