The Global Innovation Index – Where’s the Middle East?

Why are there no Middle East countries in the top 25 on the Global Innovation Index?

The Global Innovation Index rates countries around the world according to their innovation capabilities. The latest one has Qatar at #26 and UAE at #34. There are no Middle East countries higher on the list. Why do you think this is?

Here’s one thought: A professor at INSEAD (which produces the Innovation Index) was interviewed by TheNational and when asked if Masdar makes the UAE more innovative he said it has to show results first, which could take 10 years or more. Then he goes on to say, “For quick results, you have to have focused efforts like Masdar, but you also need to build the scientific foundation. You need both; it’s not a question of either or.”

Quick results?? 10 years?? Does anyone else think this is not very quick? Also, there is the stereotype again that innovation is only about scientific achievement, and can only be accomplished by tremendous efforts and organizations like Masdar.

I don’t mean to pick on this person or on Masdar. But I think this mentality sends the wrong message about innovation.

What do you think?