Current and future issues concerning Arab higher education are discussed, along with the structure and growth of the economy and the development of general education. Economic data for 21 Arab countries are provided for 1979 that cover the per capita national income; annual rate of growth in national income; and the share of growth by the labor force and by agriculture, industry, manufacturing, and services. Demographic data on population trends and the adult literary ratio are also included for each country. The number of college students and teachers in 1970 and 1978 by country are examined, along with the percentage distribution of college students by type of institution, field of study, and study level in 1978. In addition, enrollment increases for primary, secondary, and college students are projected for 1980-2000. It is suggested that the Arab higher education system needs to expand research and public service functions. Changes are needed in educational objectives, structures, content, and methods. Greater attention should be paid to scientific and techonological studies, and a wider geographical dispersal of colleges is needed. (SW)