The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has released the results of the Global Innovation Index for 2026, showing that Egypt has advanced 3 places to reach 83rd globally, up from 86th in the previous years (2023-2025). This improvement reflects Egypt's growing innovation capabilities and its efforts to enhance its scientific research and development landscape.
The report highlights several strengths that support Egypt's innovation ecosystem, including a large domestic market, a strong scientific and research base, and quality universities. Additionally, Egypt boasts available specialized talents and cadres in research and innovation fields. These factors contribute to the country's improved ranking in the global innovation landscape.
In specific areas, Egypt ranks 18th globally in terms of domestic market size, 40th in research talent, 44th in the Hirsch index for citable documents, and 48th in university quality. The country also ranks 54th in terms of the number of researchers. These rankings demonstrate Egypt's progress in developing its innovation and research capabilities.
Egypt is one of 34 economies worldwide with an innovation hub, and it is the only African country with a globally classified innovation hub, namely the Greater Cairo Innovation Hub. This hub is ranked among the top 100 innovation hubs globally. Egypt's presence in the global innovation map underscores its growing importance as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
In terms of economic structure, Egypt ranks 27th globally in the economic diversity index. The country's expenditure on research and development exceeds 1% of its GDP. Furthermore, Egypt has seen an improvement in foreign direct investment inflows, ranking 22nd globally. These indicators suggest a favorable business environment for innovation and investment.
The improvement in Egypt's ranking in the Global Innovation Index is part of the country's efforts to develop its higher education and scientific research systems. The government aims to promote investment in research and innovation, and to increase the contribution of universities and research institutions to the country's economic and scientific development.
The WIPO report provides a comprehensive assessment of innovation ecosystems worldwide. Egypt's advancement in the index reflects its commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. The country's progress in the global innovation landscape is expected to have a positive impact on its economic growth and development.
Key points
- Egypt ranks 83rd globally in the 2026 Global Innovation Index.
- Egypt has an innovation hub, the Greater Cairo Innovation Hub, ranked among the top 100 globally.
- Egypt's expenditure on research and development exceeds 1% of its GDP.
