The Arab region has numerous natural resources and great human capital wealth, perhaps the largest in the world. A long history of civilisation, supported by a geographical location that mediates the whole world, granted it the largest business centre.

Nevertheless, the countries of the region suffer from chronic low-economic growth rates, weak production structures and a decrease in the competitiveness of their products, along with poverty, inequality and corruption rates that are the highest in the world. Despite the success of the development experiences of some countries during the past five decades, they were not sustainable or inclusively planned.

As a result of this situation, many uprisings have taken place in most Arab countries, supported by the middle class, especially youth, asking for a change in the status quo and broad reform that includes the economic, social and political aspects of society.

For the same reason, I have embarked on this research project for over 3 years to contribute to the ongoing debate on ways to revive Arab reform from a holistic approach. The study proposed development frameworks (based on some key economic, political and social variables, taking into consideration the distinctive features of each region group) that may lead to more comprehensive and integrated development in the region. These frameworks are a vital strategy for enhancing the effectiveness of reform programs in the region and achieving targeted inclusive growth outcomes.

During these years, five working papers from the thesis have been presented in several international conferences; three of them published as book chapters in the book entitled ‘Impacts of political instability on economics in the MENA region”. The outcomes also have awarded several international prizes, such as the Ibn Khaldun Prize, during the ASSA meeting in Atlanta, 2019.

In many conferences and meetings, I have received frequent suggestions from experts and discussants to turn the study into a monograph book in order to disseminate the results of the study on a larger scale to target not only academic researchers but also policymakers, especially in the Arab region. I became eager about the idea to deliver my message to all stakeholders. Thanks to Emerald, this transformation has become possible.

Finally, I hope this book represents a good contribution to sustainable development research in the Arab world and inspires the leaders and decision-makers in the region towards achieving the expectations and aspirations of their people.