National innovation systems

This chapter reviews the national innovation system (NIS) as a higher level of innovation beyond individual and organizational domains. It also captures the various viewpoints on the value of the NIS in terms of economic growth and competitiveness. According to the OECD, NIS institutions can be divided into five main categories, these include: governments, research councils, private enterprises, universities and other public and private organizations. The chapter covers different levels and domains of innovations; i.e., Individual, Community (or city), Organizational and National (ICON). It presents the Euphrates–Tigris basin as the site of technological innovation. The chapter presents a set of case studies to contextualize the model of integral innovation. It describes about innovative eco-tourism in Jordan. The chapter also describes about Alba, an innovative aluminium manufacturing industry based in Bahrain. It examines Arabian Oud, a fragrance manufacturer and retailer successfully combining heritage, culture and traditions of the Middle East with innovation.