A Comparison of ICT infrastructure in Saudi Arabian and Gulf States Universities

This paper compares the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure between Saudi Arabia and Gulf States universities, the latter consisting of Qatar, Oman, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain. A questionnaire, expert-reviewed and pilot-tested, was used to collect data from ten universities in Saudi Arabia and five in the Gulf States. It covered the perspectives offered by faculty members, staff and students. Differences emerged in the Saudi Arabian and Gulf States universities' infrastructure including: internet connection, computer devices, and software and services system availability and effectiveness. The results suggest that Saudi Arabian universities must improve their ICT infrastructure, including the provision of suitable connection networks and formal training of staff in utilising ICT resources. This study's findings aim to advise the Saudi Arabian and Gulf States universities on their plans and programmes for e-learning and the consolidation of required resources.