Emerging markets present opportunity

Dubai: Dubai must take advantage of the opportunity to export its sophisticated information communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, innovation and entrepreneurship as emerging markets begin to shape the world's economic future, said Tejari chief executive Omar Hijazi, speaking at a discussion on the future of the internet.

"Today's emerging markets are shaping the world's economic future and they clearly comprehend their economic potential will be determined by the sophistication of their technology," he said.

"This presents a huge opportunity for Dubai to export its sophisticated ICT infrastructure, innovation, and entrepreneurship to become a significant factor in shaping commerce and society on a global scale."

New online population

Over 100 million Muslim users represent a new online population, with most based in the emerging markets. These indicators, according to Tejari, show that the region can play a key role in paving the way for the Internet in the emerging markets.

According to president of Madar Research, Abdul Kader Kamli, a challenge emerging in the local markets was the lack of transparency in the ICT industry.