Exploring trends and prospects of metaverse in emerging economies

Purpose This study explores the current state and challenges of metaverse research in emerging economies, evaluates its future potential across key sectors and introduces the Metaverse Platform for Apprenticeship, Collaboration and Training (MPACT) as a conceptual framework for tacit knowledge diffusion and workforce development in digitally immersive environments. Design/methodology/approach A bibliometric approach was employed to analyze metaverse research in emerging economies between 2005 and 2026, drawing on 4,337 peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. Using visualization and mapping techniques, the study examined research outputs, collaboration networks and influential contributions, enabling the identification of key trends, existing challenges and future research directions. Findings The findings reveal that emerging economies such as China, India and the UAE are leading digital innovation in sectors like education, healthcare and cultural heritage through metaverse technologies. However, persistent digital infrastructure and institutional gaps in regions including Africa, Central Asia and Latin America continue to constrain equitable access and adoption. The MPACT platform holds considerable promise for tacit knowledge diffusion by utilizing immersive learning environments that enable realistic simulations, expert observation and guided mentorship, thereby facilitating cross-border skill development and collaboration between emerging and developed economies. Research limitations/implications While the study offers valuable insights into the metaverse's role in emerging economies, its scope is bounded by the reliance on bibliometric methods, which are effective for mapping patterns and thematic linkages but are not designed to address causal relationships, empirical validation or technical implementation. The proposed MPACT framework for tacit knowledge diffusion makes a conceptual contribution, though it remains at a theoretical stage without mathematical modeling or empirical application, thus offering a foundation for future research. Practical implications Metaverse adoption in emerging economies calls for context-sensitive strategies that emphasize infrastructure development, digital literacy and workforce training in immersive technologies and content creation. The MPACT framework supports this by enabling experiential learning through virtual apprenticeships, with public-private partnerships driving scalable, inclusive pilot programs aligned with regional needs and human capital priorities. Originality/value This analysis provides key insights for business leaders, policymakers, IT developers and stakeholders in emerging economies to stay updated on metaverse trends and invest in workforce skills. By promoting frameworks like MPACT, it supports inclusive, ethical approaches that drive sustainable growth, digital transformation, experiential virtual apprenticeships and scalable pilot programs through public–private partnerships aligned with regional needs.