SACM - United Kingdom
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/9667
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Item Restricted The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Supply Chain Optimization in Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) AlQahtani, Abdullah Saeed; Khobzi, HamidThis dissertation examines the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on supply chain optimization in Saudi Arabia, with particular emphasis on its alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives. AI technologies such as machine learning, predictive analytics, robotic process automation, and the Internet of Things are increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance efficiency, resilience, and sustainability within supply chain operations. However, despite growing national interest, empirical research focusing on AI adoption in the Saudi supply chain context remains limited. The study adopts a qualitative, interpretivist approach based on multiple secondary case studies drawn from peer-reviewed literature published between 2020 and 2025. The analysis is guided by the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework, supported by the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model, to examine both adoption drivers and process-level applications across key sectors, including telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and national mega-projects. Findings indicate that AI adoption in Saudi supply chains is most advanced in planning, forecasting, and logistics delivery, while challenges persist in system integration, data quality, workforce readiness, and organizational resistance to change. Environmental factors such as Vision 2030 initiatives and government support act as strong enablers, although adoption remains concentrated among large organizations and flagship projects. The study concludes that while AI has significant potential to transform Saudi supply chains, its full benefits depend on improved digital integration, skills development, and supportive policy frameworks.21 0Item Restricted An Evaluation of the Transformation of the Public Libraries in Saudi Arabia – Focusing on their Services, Staff, and Patrons.(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alshehri, Danea; Aarti, SehgalBackground. Saudi Vision 2030 prioritizes rethinking public libraries as vibrant cultural, learning, and digital engagement centers from passive repository spaces. While flagship centers such as Ithra Library and King Fahad National Library are upgraded, there is minimal empirical work that explores how reforms are experienced by users and workers, particularly in community and regional centers. Aims. The research assesses the effect of Vision 2030 reforms on Saudi public libraries in terms of services, staff role, and user interaction, and measures alignment with cultural and educational goals. Methods. A mixed-methods approach combined a bilingual online user survey (n = 54) with a managerial survey of three senior library system leaders. Saudi public libraries were purposely selected to include flagship, regional, and community libraries. Quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive analysis, whereas qualitative responses were analyzed thematically using Institutional Change Theory and Public Sphere Theory. Results. User responses revealed high reliance on legacy services (book lending 20.83%), followed by study/group rooms (13.89%) and digital services (12.5%). Low attendance at cultural events was reported (43% fewer than three times yearly; 28% never). Positive individual and social impact was realized by 50% of the respondents; 83% of the respondents valued staff support. Managerial data corroborated core service stability, cultural programming increase, and high staff development, but commented on uneven innovation facilities and low digital literacy programs. Conclusions. Vision 2030 has broadened the social role of Saudi public libraries through hybrid service models. To maintain momentum, national coordination, investment in rural infrastructure, and further outreach—most critically for innovation and digital competencies—are necessary.23 0Item Restricted Women’s Empowerment in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030: Pathways and Barriers to Gender Equality(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alshehri, Hanin; Mashayekhi، AzadehThis dissertation focuses on women’s empowerment and gender equality in Saudi Arabia within the framework of Vision 2030. It examines state-led development reforms, legal and institutional change, women’s labour force participation, and the social, cultural, and political dimensions shaping women’s lived experiences. The study draws on gender and development theory, the Capability Approach, and Islamic feminist perspectives to analyse both pathways to empowerment and the persistent structural barriers that limit substantive gender equality.21 0Item Restricted Saudi Arabia’s Global Brand Transformation: Vision 2030’s Role in Marketing the Kingdom as a Tourism and Business Hub(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) ALMSHARI, ALANOUD AHMED; George, OfosuAbstract This dissertation analyses international perceptions of the national branding strategies of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030 while focusing on familiarity, trust, perceived innovation and national attractiveness as the factors which influence global perceptions. The research draws on Nation Branding Theory (Anholt, 2005) and Soft Power Theory (Nye, 1990) and analyses how innovative projects, cultural diplomacy and digital campaigns help shape the changing international image of the country. The study was based on a quantitative, cross-sectional survey conducted with 157 international participants using an online questionnaire. The derived data was analysed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent samples t tests, and linear regression to analyse associations between familiarity, trust, innovation and attractiveness. The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between national attractiveness and familiarity, with perceived innovation being the most important predictor of attractiveness. Higher trust levels were shown by participants aware of Vision 2030 as opposed to those unfamiliar with it, thereby indicating the impact of awareness campaigns on external perceptions. However, there are still credibility gaps, specifically among Western respondents where socio-political concerns influence their attitudes. The dissertation effectively contributes towards nation branding literature by providing statistical evidence on international responses to non-Western transformation strategies. From a practical perspective, the study offers Saudi policymakers and brand strategists’ insight into refining tourism, investment and cultural diplomacy initiatives.21 0Item Restricted Drivers and Consequences of Saudization: Exploring Employer and Employee Perspectives in the Saudi Private Sector(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) AlMaghrabi, Khawlah; Sally, WrightExecutive Summary This dissertation examines the impact of Saudization on HR practices and employee experiences in Saudi Arabia’s private sector. Saudization aims to increase national employment, yet questions remain about its effectiveness in reducing expatriate reliance and fostering sustainable workforce development. Guided by Human Capital Theory and Institutional Theory, this study evaluates how localisation policies shape organisational practices, employee perceptions, and labour market outcomes. Methodology A structured questionnaire was used to survey 200 Saudi employees and human resource professionals working in different private-sector organizations. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods like correlation and regression were used to test the research hypotheses. Data collection was performed by means of a questionnaire with a blend of closed-ended (quantitative) and open-ended (qualitative) items. Quantitative responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative responses were thematically analyzed for additional depth and context.11 0Item Restricted Women's Movements in Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) alotaibi, Rehab; Yasmin, Hussain; Wright, KatyEmpowering women is essential to societal development, contributing importantly to cultural, economic, and political progress. In Saudi Arabia, women's empowerment has become a priority of the nation's modernization efforts, particularly under the ambitious reforms of Vision 2030. Historically, Saudi women faced legal and societal restrictions limiting their mobility, employment opportunities, and public participation. However, significant reforms, such as lifting the driving ban, alongside persistent activism, have catalysed important advancements in their rights and roles. This thesis examines the evolution of Saudi women’s rights advocacy, with a particular focus on the role of Twitter (X) and the interplay between progressive movements and counter-movements. Grounded in feminist theory and social movement theories, the research explores how women’s activism in Saudi Arabia has transformed since the early 2000s, gaining momentum and institutional support under Vision 2030. This research highlights a pivotal historical moment in Saudi Arabia’s social and political evolution, marked by the tension between conservative ideologies and modernist perspectives on gender equality. The women’s movement in Saudi Arabia reflects the country’s complex social landscape, where conflicting views on women’s rights and societal roles continue to coexist. This thesis examines the experiences of Saudi women’s rights advocates, both male and female, in their use of Twitter to demand reforms, particularly the right to drive. It explores how Twitter amplified their voices, transforming demands for women's rights into public discourse. At the same time, it reveals how Twitter has also been used to restrict and undermine women’s movements, exposing activists to harassment and hate speech. Through qualitative research and semi-structured interviews, the study investigates how these Saudi activists overcame challenges, engaged with digital spaces, and contributed to broader societal changes. The findings challenge oversimplified narratives of Saudi women as either entirely oppressed or excessively privileged, offering instead an in-depth account of their agency and activism. this research illustrates how Saudi women strategically engage with technology and advocacy to navigate cultural, legal, and societal barriers. It highlights their persistent struggles against opposition, including counter-movements, while also showing their increasing determination and contributions to societal transformation. Finally, this study provides a balanced understanding of Saudi women’s movement and its implications for gender equality and societal reform. It underscores the critical interplay of women’s activism, male allyship, and top-down reforms in shaping the evolving landscape of women’s rights and empowerment in Saudi Arabia.11 0Item Restricted Assessing Financial Risk Exposure in Saudi Healthcare Institutions under Vision 2030(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alduwaihi, Lulwah; Kanungo, RamaThis study explores how Saudi hospitals disclose and govern financial risks in light of Vision 2030 reforms. Using qualitative document analysis and the READ framework, 51 public and private hospital reports from 2022–2024 were examined. Results show that disclosures focused narrowly on liquidity and reimbursement risks, with critical risks like fraud or capital loss rarely mentioned. Private hospitals offered more detailed reporting, but often avoided sensitive disclosures. Public hospitals either lacked reports or reused generic templates, reflecting weak governance practices. Most institutions failed to disclose formal oversight structures, such as audit committees or risk stress-testing, these gaps in financial transparency and governance conflict with the accountability goals of Vision 2030. The study concludes that effective financial risk governance remains underdeveloped, especially in public hospitals, and calls for stronger regulatory enforcement and future research into internal governance practices.13 0Item Restricted HOW HAVE SAUDI THINK TANKS EVOLVED IN THEIR STRUCTURE, FOCUS AREAS, AND OUTPUTS SINCE THE LAUNCH OF VISION 2030 IN 2016?(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Almshrafi, Nasser; Juan, BaezaBackground Think tanks in Saudi Arabia have historically been limited in number, scope, and autonomy compared to regional counterparts. With the introduction of a new development strategy, Vision 2030 in 2016, which is focused on economic diversification and socially oriented reforms, institutions have been actively driven to expand their thematic agendas and exploit greater visibility. Nonetheless, little is known about the degree to which the changes have boosted the policy power and autonomy. This study reviewed how Saudi think tanks have evolved, notably the King Faisal Centre of Research and Islamic Studies (KFCRIS) and the Gulf Research Centre (GRC), in terms of their structure, areas of focus, and outputs since Vision 2030. Methods An interpretivist, inductive qualitative design was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews (n=9) with document analysis of think tank publications (2016–2025). Participants included government/semi-government stakeholders and KFCRIS representatives. Thematic analysis, guided by NVivo, was used to identify patterns across four domains: institutional structure, thematic focus, outputs, and influence. Results Vision 2030 has expanded think tanks’ thematic scope from energy and foreign policy to include socio-economic development, gender equality, climate change, and digitalisation. In accordance with the results of the six interviews with beneficiaries, interviewees emphasised the broadened thematic coverage of Saudi think tanks and their greater presence. However, they observed the continued constraints of autonomy based on dependence on state funding. This was reinforced in the three KFCRIS interviews, where KFCRIS was viewed as a state-friendly model with limited independence in politically sensitive areas. The documentary review also showed that though KFCRIS and GRC have increased the range of their exposure and topical specialisation as part of Vision 2030, both are constrained by structural reliance on centralised funding by the state and centralised governance. Conclusion Vision 2030 has increased the number and variety of topics and the international presence of Saudi think tanks, now essential policy advisors. Structural dependencies and centralised governance limit their capacity as autonomous policy agents. Future development requires institutionalising government–think tank partnerships, diversifying funding, and enhancing mechanisms for policy uptake.8 0Item Restricted To What Extent Has Saudi Aramco’s Diversification Strategy Contributed to Saudi Arabia’s Economic Transformation Under Vision 2030(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Aljabbari, Mohammed; Earl, GammonThe present dissertation evaluates to what degree Saudi Aramco’s diversification strategy is changing Saudi Arabia’s economy since Vision 2030 was announced. The research question was designed to evaluate whether or not Aramco’s undertakings truly contribute toward economic diversification and sustainability, or whether these hallmarks of reform reinforce the country’s dependency on hydrocarbons. The investigative design employed elements from theories of state capitalism, corporate governance, and environmental legitimacy. The empirical base was supported by a comparative case analysis of Saudi Aramco and ExxonMobil, in order to assess how ownership modalities influence diversification trajectories and sustainability narratives. Qualitative document analysis of corporate reports, international energy assessments, and pertinent policy documents was conducted to establish the empirical base. Findings suggest Aramco played a significant role in enabling investments into new sectors at the direction of the state and alignment with national strategic goals, but the diversification remains heavily fossil-based with very little being achieved relative to renewables and green technologies. While a direct comparison with ExxonMobil was performed to highlight how state ownership brings about different political/economic imperatives, there is a common dependency on hydrocarbons through external pressures of decarbonization. Overall, the study asserts that Aramco’s diversification strategy contributes to Saudi Arabia’s transformation in only partial, and contested, circumstances that improve fiscal resilience; but raises the question of actual sustainability in the long term.12 0Item Restricted The impact of ESG disclosure on firm performance and cost of capital in Saudi Arabian listed firms: The moderation impact of Vision 2030(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alotaibi, Fahad; Macintosh, BryanThis thesis investigates the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure on firm performance and the cost of capital in Saudi Arabian listed firms, while also examining the moderating role of Saudi Vision 2030. As sustainability continues to gain global importance, Saudi Arabia has implemented significant economic reforms to diversify its economy and align corporate governance and financial markets with international best practices. Against this backdrop, the thesis utilises a panel dataset of publicly listed firms extracted from the Bloomberg database and applies multiple regression models with fixed effects to assess the influence of ESG disclosure on financial performance, measured by return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE), as well as market valuation, proxied by Tobin’s Q (TQ). Additionally, the thesis explores the relationship between ESG disclosure and the cost of capital, represented by the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). The findings reveal that the implementation of Vision 2030 has significantly increased firms’ ESG disclosure levels. However, ESG disclosure exhibits a negative relationship with firm performance when measured through TQ, while contributing to a reduction in the cost of capital. Moreover, the introduction of Vision 2030 as a moderating factor strengthens this negative relationship with TQ. The results further indicate that firms with ESG disclosure levels below the average experience a negative impact on ROA and ROE. When examining individual ESG dimensions, the thesis finds that governance and social disclosures reduce the cost of capital. However, Vision 2030 negatively moderates the relationship between social disclosure and the cost of capital, assisting firms in accessing capital at a low cost. This thesis contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence from an emerging market perspective, offering valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and corporate decision makers regarding the financial implications of ESG disclosure. Furthermore, it underscores the role of national economic visions in shaping corporate transparency and sustainability practices. The thesis has significant implications for Saudi firms, regulators, and international investors, as it highlights the strategic importance of ESG disclosure in enhancing firm performance and reducing financing costs. Additionally, it lays the groundwork for future research on the intersection of sustainability reporting, economic reforms, and financial performance in developing markets.15 0