Al-mukhaini, Abdullah Khamis Rashid <br/><br/>
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR CLUSTERS BASED POLICY IN SOHAR INDUSTRIAL AREA IN OMAN / 
ABDULLAH KHAMIS RASHID AL-MUKHAINI ; SUPERVISOR, ASSOC. PROF. DR. FİGEN YEŞİLADA 
 - 238 sheets ;  30 cm  +1 CD ROM 
<br/><br/>Thesis (DBA) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Business Administration 
<br/><br/> This study aims to investigate the leverage of cluster-based policies in the Sohar<br/>Industrial Area, with a focus on the role of stakeholders and the competencies of civic<br/>entrepreneurs. The research employs a qualitative methods approach, consisting of 33<br/>semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. The main findings of the study<br/>reveal that government institutions play a critical role in facilitating cluster-based<br/>policies through policy formulation, infrastructure provision, coordination,<br/>stakeholder engagement, and sector-specific initiatives. Participant firms contribute to<br/>cluster development through collaboration, support for SMEs, alignment with<br/>government initiatives, and investment in infrastructure. Civic entrepreneurs play a<br/>vital role in facilitating policy implementation through visionary leadership, support<br/>for entrepreneurs and start-ups, and continual support from the board of directors. The<br/>study highlights the importance of tailoring cluster-based policies to meet the specific<br/>needs and interests of different stakeholder groups, which can be achieved through<br/>collaboration, clear enablers and incentives, supportive institutions, a favorable legal<br/>environment, and an investment-friendly atmosphere. Moreover, addressing different<br/>cultural backgrounds among stakeholders, including foreign investors, can be<br/>accomplished by evaluating added value, collaborating with established international<br/>companies, facilitating market access, leveraging investor experience, and receiving<br/>support from business councils. The research contributes to the field by providing<br/>insights into effective cluster development strategies, stakeholder engagement, and the<br/>competencies and skills required by civic entrepreneurs. The findings can guide<br/>policymakers, government institutions, industry leaders, and civic entrepreneurs in<br/>their efforts to drive economic growth and create a conducive environment for clusterbased<br/>policies in the Sohar Industrial Area. 
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Topical Terms: </label><br/>Business Administration--Dissertations, Academic