Internet and Online Governmental Services Use Divide: Evidence From Oman

Abstract

Based on a sample of 21,546 individuals and 5,224 households, we use multilevel probit models to analyze the divides in the use of the Internet and online governmental services in Oman. We also study the main self-reported reasons for not using the Internet. The results reveal that characteristics such as education, employment status, nationality, role in the household, or age influence the likelihood of using both the Internet and online governmental services. Gender is only a relevant explanatory variable in the Internet use case. Although a gender divide exists in the online governmental services use, it is explained by differences in other individual characteristics. No need, lack of basic Information and Communication Technology skills and illiteracy are the most common explanations for not using the Internet.