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Ruling the Arab Internet: An analysis of Internet Ownership Trends of Six Arab Countries

Abstract: 
An analysis of the ownership and financial relationship of ISPs serving countries in the Middle East show the emergence of large media conglomerates which dominate the market. Many of the Oligarchies that serve the Gulf and Levant region are funded in Saudi Arabia. There is still room for competition, however, the high start-up costs and the regulatory web restrict the market to insiders and businesses connected to the state powers. These practices concentrate control of Internet Freedom, Internet Security and Internet development in the hands of a few.
Author: 
Oghia, Michael J. and Helen Indelicato
Institution: 
American University of Beirut; George Washington University
Year: 
2012
Dimensions-Problem/Solution: 
Region(s): 
Industry Focus: 
Information & Telecommunication
Internet & Cyberspace
Country: 
Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan
Datatype(s): 
Case Studies