Technology for business: Supporting industries as a main driving force for e-Commerce adoption in Saudi Arabia

Using a qualitative approach, this study examines e-Commerce adoption in the Saudi tourism industry. The research concerns factors that impact of tourism firms moving their sales online. The study´s findings suggest a relationship between the competency of Saudi´s ICT supporting industry, and the level of e-Commerce integration in the tourism industry. Further, assumptions of global e-Commerce regarding the acceptance of universal payment systems and the intention of firms in pursuing a strategy of e-Commerce may not be valid for some developing countries. The conclusion from this study is that assumptions underpinning global e-Commerce are based on the practices of developed economies and are not yet sufficiently flexible to accommodate elements of difference, as described by this Saudi study.