A Multi-Level Model for Promoting and Practising Entrepreneurship and Open Innovation in UAE Higher Education Institutions: Contextual Drivers, Stakeholder Perceptions, and the Transition towards the Entrepreneurial University Paradigm

Abstract

In the UAE, national policies prioritise innovation, entrepreneurship, and knowledge commercialisation, positioning higher education institutions (HEIs) as key drivers of these goals. Yet, research on entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and open innovation (OI) in HEIs remains limited, fragmented, and largely single-level, with little focus on the UAE context. This study therefore investigates how entrepreneurship and OI can be effectively promoted and practised within UAE HEIs, considering contextual factors and stakeholder perceptions, to support their transition toward the entrepreneurial university paradigm. A concurrent parallel multilevel triangulation mixed-methods design was used, combining document analysis, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated across levels to generate cross-level and meta-inferences. Results indicate that while the UAE provides a supportive policy environment and entrepreneurial ecosystem, institutional implementation is uneven. Leadership, policy frameworks, and collaborations facilitate EO and OI, but gaps remain in inbound and outbound innovation, curricular integration, and alignment between strategic aims and practice. Key challenges include risk aversion, unclear IP policies, and limited cross-sectoral collaboration. EO appears relatively strong among students and faculty, whereas OI is less developed. The study introduces the EOIU Model, a context-sensitive, multi-level framework illustrating how EO and OI can be advanced in UAE HEIs. It contributes theoretically, methodologically, and empirically, while offering practical guidance for aligning national priorities with institutional actions. Future research may further validate the model through longitudinal or comparative studies. Keywords: higher education, entrepreneurship, open innovation, entrepreneurial orientation, entrepreneurial university, UAE, EOIU model