ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a critical analysis of the main causes of the deficient state of knowledge and scientific research in Qatar, the UAE, the GCC, and the larger Arab region. Chief among these impediments is the quality of education systems in the region. The chapter also examines, in detail, key structural, societal, and political challenges that impede knowledge acquisition, research, and innovation. It discusses societal and structural barriers, including the poor quality of education, training and research, undemocratic and authoritarian regimes, brain drain, lack of good governance, lack of funding, and poor integration within the international scientific community.
