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Ramil Dinglasa, Manchester Metropolitan University Business School, United KingdomAbstract
This study investigates the cultural adjustment experiences of Self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) in Saudi Arabia, focusing on the challenges they face and the strategies they employ to overcome them. Saudi Arabia has attracted a significant number of expatriates despite its culturally conservative environment and challenging climate, primarily because of the tax-free salaries it offers. Although SIEs constitute a significant proportion of the expatriate population in Saudi Arabia, there is a scarcity of literature documenting their experiences. The objective of this study is to fill this gap. The study interviewed 13 SIEs of different nationalities from various locations in Saudi Arabia, revealing that economic factors are the primary drivers for SIEs seeking employment in the country. Religion also plays a significant role, as participants value visiting the two holiest sites of Makkah and Medina. The study also revealed the challenges experienced by SIEs, which include culture shock and homesickness. It is noteworthy that the subject of racism and stereotyping arose, as Asian participants reported feeling less favoured by the locals compared to Westerners. In practical terms, the research suggests that providing pre-departure cross-cultural training helps with adjustment since it was found that learning about Saudi Arabian culture through the Internet may not be reliable. In addition, learning the local language should also be encouraged. In addition to the extensively studied subject of social support, previous expatriation experiences, and setting realistic expectations, this study contributes to the literature by positing that open-mindedness and optimism also help SIEs address the challenges they encounter.
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