This scoping review examines the critical factors influencing e-learning implementation in emerging economies. Using a comprehensive literature search across major databases, 191 records were screened, of which 127 were assessed for eligibility and 84 studies met the inclusion criteria. Our systematic approach revealed four key themes: critical success factors, critical failure factors, implementation recommendations, and future research directions in e-learning. The findings illuminate the nascent stage of e-learning adoption in emerging economies, highlighting both the potential for enhanced educational access and multifaceted challenges faced by these nations. Our analysis offers nuanced insights into the complex interplay of infrastructural, technological, and contextual factors that shape e-learning outcomes in diverse environments. This study provides a valuable resource for policymakers, technology providers, educators, and students, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies that address the unique characteristics of each learning ecosystem. This critical conclusion underscores the necessity of recognizing and accommodating diverse learning landscapes in emerging economies to ensure effective e-learning implementation. By synthesizing the current knowledge and identifying research gaps, this review not only enriches the existing literature but also charts a course for future investigations. It provides a foundation for developing adaptive, context-sensitive approaches to e-learning, potentially catalyzing educational transformation in emerging economies.