External environment factors and their impact on international business entry modes

The article presents a comparative analysis of the impact of external environmental factors on the choice of international business entry modes in Russia and the United Arab Emirates. The political, economic, socio-cultural, and technological conditions that determine companies’ internationalization strategies are examined. It is shown that in the Russian context, cautious forms of entering foreign markets prevail - for example, indirect export, licensing, and project-based contracts - whereas in the UAE, favorable institutional and economic conditions stimulate the establishment of subsidiaries, joint ventures, regional headquarters, and franchise networks. Special attention is paid to the role of small and medium-sized enterprises, digitalization, and investment attractiveness as drivers of global expansion. Based on the analysis, conclusions are drawn regarding the most suitable international business entry modes for each country. Practical recommendations are also provided for Russian companies planning to enter the UAE market.