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Factors Shaping Sustainability Through Female Entrepreneurship in the GCC: A Systematic Review with Multi-Level and Institutional Perspective

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  • Rabia Naguib

    (Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, School of Economics, Administration and Public Policy, Doha P.O. Box 200592, Qatar)

  • Julia Barbar

    (Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, School of Economics, Administration and Public Policy, Doha P.O. Box 200592, Qatar)

Abstract

This article explores the intersection of gender, entrepreneurship, and sustainability in the context of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The article proposes a comprehensive analytical framework that incorporates multiple levels of analysis and examines the institutional pressures influencing women’s entrepreneurial participation using a systematic literature review. It provides insights into the interconnectedness of individual (micro level), organizational-sectoral (meso Level), and societal and national (macro-level) factors, offering policy recommendations to foster a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem and support women’s contributions to sustainable economic development in the region.

Suggested Citation

  • Rabia Naguib & Julia Barbar, 2025. "Factors Shaping Sustainability Through Female Entrepreneurship in the GCC: A Systematic Review with Multi-Level and Institutional Perspective," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(5), pages 1-36, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:5:p:2163-:d:1603974
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    References listed on IDEAS

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