Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
Permanent URI for this communityhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/10
Browse
17 results
Search Results
Item Restricted A systematic Review of the Consequences of Parents’ Divorce and Challenges of Raising Children between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom(Bangor University, 2024) Qahtani, Wasmmih Nayef; Margiad, WilliamsAbstract Purpose: The objective of this study is to assess the emotional, psychological, and social effects of parental divorce on children in the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia as well as the challenges parents face in parenting after divorce in the two cultures. Methodology: A pragmatic research paradigm was adopted for conducting a systematic review. Literature relevant to the project was then identified, screened, and assessed in line with the PRISMA framework. The approach was a mixed-methods one, using qualitative findings, and supported with quantitative data. The assessment of key themes was conducted through narrative analysis. Results: The children in the UK brought up in an emotionally expressive climate have significant emotional and behavioural issues post-divorce. Saudi children, especially girls, however, are taught to suppress emotions as a cultural norm. Co-parenting challenges are different, with UK laws favouring shared custody but lacking emotional safeguards, and Saudi laws favouring paternal custody and limiting involvement. Conclusion: The experiences children have after a divorce are shaped by cultural values and legal systems and therefore need context specific support strategies. Keywords: Divorce, children, co-parenting, UK, Saudi Arabia, culture, emotional impact5 0Item Restricted Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on labour market outcomes in the UK(University of Leeds, 2025-03) Abugamza, Amwaj; Howdon, Daniel; Martin, Adam; Charlwood, AndyThis thesis investigates changes in labour market outcomes and their links to physical and mental health. It uses the exogenous nature of the COVID-19 pandemic as a unique opportunity to compare pre- and post-pandemic periods through four studies. Study One, a systematic review, assessed international literature up to January 2022 on COVID-19's effects on employment. It critically evaluated the methodological tools used in prior research and provided recommendations for improved study design. The review identified key moderators, mediators, and confounders using a theoretical diagram (DAG). Following these recommendations, Study Two employed Interrupted Time Series analysis using UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) data (up to June 2023) to investigate changes in key labour market outcomes following two policy interventions: the COVID-19 lockdown and the final stage of easing lockdown restrictions. The results show that the initial disruption caused by the lockdown was followed by a recovery in employment as restrictions were lifted, but a persistent rise in economic inactivity, which became the focus of the two final studies. Study Three used the UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS), showing that being aged 50–66 (OR= 2.18, 95% CI: 1.53, 3.10) and reporting long-standing illness (OR= 1.44, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.84) were statistically significant predictors of transitioning from pre-pandemic employment to post-pandemic economic inactivity. This transition was associated with higher psychological distress. Study Four focused on individuals aged 50–66 and explored why economic inactivity has risen. It found that the prevalence of reported poor health increased among this age group post-pandemic, suggesting that rising economic inactivity is driven by deteriorating health rather than changes in propensities of healthy or unhealthy people leaving the labour force after the pandemic. It also compared ONS and UKHLS data to explore concerns about the reliability of government statistics. This thesis identified key drivers of economic inactivity in the UK post-COVID-19 and their links to health, highlighting policy interventions to support people in remaining in or returning to work.8 0Item Restricted Operations and Logistics of Running a Car Club in Newport, UK(Swansea university, 2024) Alhasyani, Sulaiman Saud; Corina, EdwardsThis project is cantered around a strategic opportunity to launch a new car club in Newport, with the aim of enhancing mobility solutions while expanding Enterprise Car Club’s market reach. The proposal evaluates Newport's unique geographic, demographic, and infrastructural characteristics to determine how a car-sharing service can successfully integrate into the city's existing transport ecosystem. By examining population density, transportation networks, and local household dynamics, the project identifies the most suitable strategies for introducing a sustainable, customer-centric car club. The purpose of the proposal is to address the untapped potential for car-sharing services in Newport, where 23% of households lack car ownership and demand for flexible, cost-effective mobility solutions is growing, this finding can be seen in section 5.1.3. Through detailed analysis of the city's urban layout and demographic profile, the project aims to develop tailored recommendations that align Enterprise Car Club’s services with the specific needs of Newport’s residents. The analysis revealed that Newport’s well-established transport links, such as the M4 motorway and local bus services, make it a strategic location for a car club launch. However, the current car club distribution is concentrated in the southeast, leaving significant gaps in the northern and western parts of the city. Additionally, Newport’s household income is slightly below the national average, signalling the need for affordable pricing structures to make the service accessible to a broad range of users. Key recommendations include expanding the car club service to underserved regions of the city, particularly the north and west, to ensure equitable access. Furthermore, targeted marketing campaigns should focus on the 23% of households without a car, while offering tiered membership plans that cater to cost-sensitive users and larger families. To optimise vehicle availability, the use of traffic data is recommended to better position vehicles in high-demand areas during peak times. Finally, integrating car club locations with public transportation hubs will enhance accessibility, ensuring the service is well-aligned with the city’s overall mobility network. This proposal outlines a comprehensive strategy for the successful launch and operation of a car club in Newport, positioning Enterprise Car Club to capture a significant share of the city’s growing demand for urban mobility solutions.15 0Item Restricted Operations and Logistics of Running a Car Club in Newport, UK(Swansea University, 2024-09-26) Al-Freh, Mohammed; Alomani, Mubarak; Alqhtani , Abdulmanim Aloosh F; Ravichandra, Anand; Alhasyani , Sulaiman Saud S; Almazyad, Faisal Fawaz A; Kumar Rao, Uday; Alrashed , Abdulaziz Mohammed S; Singh, Arshdeep; Edwards, CJThis project is cantered around a strategic opportunity to launch a new car club in Newport, with the aim of enhancing mobility solutions while expanding Enterprise Car Club’s market reach. The proposal evaluates Newport's unique geographic, demographic, and infrastructural characteristics to determine how a car-sharing service can successfully integrate into the city's existing transport ecosystem. By examining population density, transportation networks, and local household dynamics, the project identifies the most suitable strategies for introducing a sustainable, customer-centric car club. The purpose of the proposal is to address the untapped potential for car-sharing services in Newport, where 23% of households lack car ownership and demand for flexible, cost-effective mobility solutions is growing, this finding can be seen in section 5.1.3. Through detailed analysis of the city's urban layout and demographic profile, the project aims to develop tailored recommendations that align Enterprise Car Club’s services with the specific needs of Newport’s residents. The analysis revealed that Newport’s well-established transport links, such as the M4 motorway and local bus services, make it a strategic location for a car club launch. However, the current car club distribution is concentrated in the southeast, leaving significant gaps in the northern and western parts of the city. Additionally, Newport’s household income is slightly below the national average, signalling the need for affordable pricing structures to make the service accessible to a broad range of users. Key recommendations include expanding the car club service to underserved regions of the city, particularly the north and west, to ensure equitable access. Furthermore, targeted marketing campaigns should focus on the 23% of households without a car, while offering tiered membership plans that cater to cost-sensitive users and larger families. To optimise vehicle availability, the use of traffic data is recommended to better position vehicles in high-demand areas during peak times. Finally, integrating car club locations with public transportation hubs will enhance accessibility, ensuring the service is well-aligned with the city’s overall mobility network. This proposal outlines a comprehensive strategy for the successful launch and operation of a car club in Newport, positioning Enterprise Car Club to capture a significant share of the city’s growing demand for urban mobility solutions.19 0Item Restricted Operations and Logistics of Running a Car Club in Newport, UK(Swansea University, 2024-09-26) Al-Freh, Mohammed; Alomani ,Mubarak; Alqhtani , Abdulmanim Aloosh F; Ravichandra, Anand; Saud S, Alhasyani Sulaiman; Almazyad , Faisal Fawaz A; Rao, Uday Kumar; Alrashed ,Abdulaziz Mohammed S; Singh, Arshdeep; Edwards, Ms CJThis project is cantered around a strategic opportunity to launch a new car club in Newport, with the aim of enhancing mobility solutions while expanding Enterprise Car Club’s market reach. The proposal evaluates Newport's unique geographic, demographic, and infrastructural characteristics to determine how a car-sharing service can successfully integrate into the city's existing transport ecosystem. By examining population density, transportation networks, and local household dynamics, the project identifies the most suitable strategies for introducing a sustainable, customer-centric car club. The purpose of the proposal is to address the untapped potential for car-sharing services in Newport, where 23% of households lack car ownership and demand for flexible, cost-effective mobility solutions is growing, this finding can be seen in section 5.1.3. Through detailed analysis of the city's urban layout and demographic profile, the project aims to develop tailored recommendations that align Enterprise Car Club’s services with the specific needs of Newport’s residents. The analysis revealed that Newport’s well-established transport links, such as the M4 motorway and local bus services, make it a strategic location for a car club launch. However, the current car club distribution is concentrated in the southeast, leaving significant gaps in the northern and western parts of the city. Additionally, Newport’s household income is slightly below the national average, signalling the need for affordable pricing structures to make the service accessible to a broad range of users. Key recommendations include expanding the car club service to underserved regions of the city, particularly the north and west, to ensure equitable access. Furthermore, targeted marketing campaigns should focus on the 23% of households without a car, while offering tiered membership plans that cater to cost-sensitive users and larger families. To optimise vehicle availability, the use of traffic data is recommended to better position vehicles in high-demand areas during peak times. Finally, integrating car club locations with public transportation hubs will enhance accessibility, ensuring the service is well-aligned with the city’s overall mobility network. This proposal outlines a comprehensive strategy for the successful launch and operation of a car club in Newport, positioning Enterprise Car Club to capture a significant share of the city’s growing demand for urban mobility solutions.14 0Item Restricted The role of independent pharmacist prescribers in primary care settings in Wales: a mixed-methods evaluation(Cardiff University, 2024) Alghamdi, Saeed Saad A; Karen Hodson, Rhian DeslandesIn Wales, the role of independent prescribing pharmacists (IPPs) has developed over time, particularly since 2015, when the Welsh Government implemented its primary care plan and primary care clusters. The aim of this PhD was to explore the development of the role of IPPs within the primary care setting with a focus on the role of IPPs in general practitioner (GP) practices and community pharmacies. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach in which a quantitative stage involved analysis of prescribing data related to IPPs and other nonmedical prescribers, and the qualitative studies utilised semi-structured interviews with IPPs in GP practices and community pharmacies, and community pharmacy leads in different Health Boards (HBs) in Wales. The findings show that the number of non-medical independent prescribers and the volume of prescribing in GP practices in Wales increased over the study period, particularly since the implementation of primary care clusters. Thematic analysis of the interviews revealed that this increase, as perceived by participants, may have helped reduce the pressure on GPs, enhanced IPPs’ skill sets across various therapeutic areas, and increased their job satisfaction and motivation. Moreover, the role of IPPs in community pharmacies was more related to acute conditions, whereas their involvement with chronic conditions was more evident in GP practices. Some challenges to the role of IPPs were identified in this study, such as the lack of funding and support, the lack of access to GP records in community pharmacies, unclear indemnity insurance in GP practices, an unclear strategy and plan to develop the role, and a high workload. However, most of these challenges were resolved over time with the progression of the role, except for the high workload issue that needs more support. Some of the enablers for their roles were the Welsh Pharmaceutical Committee’s (2030) vision, which included a strategy to increase the number of IPPs in community pharmacies, and support from other healthcare professionals, GP practices, and HBs in Wales. The vision and the new Pharmacy Workforce Plan published by Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) may help develop the role of IPPs and allow them to use their skills more effectively. This eventually may help in improving patient care and relieving the increased pressure on primary care settings. However, these plans need to be monitored to ensure the successful development of this role and its effective integration into the future healthcare service and workforce in Wales. Future research should focus on further understanding the prescribing patterns of IPPs in both GP practices and community pharmacies in Wales, patients’ satisfaction with the role of IPPs in these areas, clinical outcomes of patients managed by IPPs, and different stakeholders' and other healthcare professionals’ views on the role.10 0Item Restricted Corporate Governance and Comply or explain approach in the UK: evolution, impact, and limitations(Brunel, 2024-09-08) alshuwaier, Mohammed Ahmed; Zaccaria, ElenaThe UK corporate governance codes date back to the late 20th century. Their beginning is marked by the adoption of the comply or explain approach, which revolutionised corporate governance by giving the codes voluntary character. This approach provides that companies have the flexibility to choose between strict adherence to the code or the provision of justifiable explanations in case of deviations. Thus, comply or explain resulted in a departure from the rigid hard law instruments to regulate corporate governance and was a step forward for the development of internal structures for audit and control. What this study aims to answer is whether the comply or explain has a place in the present corporate governance practice and how it has contributed as a corporate governance approach in the last thirty years. Thus, a conclusion was reached that this principle has both positive and negative features; however, its place in the UK’s corporate governance practice remains crucial for providing guidance on corporate conduct. This study found that the UK corporate governance codes are prominent with their flexibility, accountability and transparency resulting from the application of comply or explain. Consequent to the adoption of this principle, a more dynamic and adaptable corporate governance landscape was formed. Companies are now encouraged to tailor the rules so that they fit their needs, since companies differ dramatically in size, functions, and economic place. This choice between compliance or explanation allowed companies to experiment and innovate, which in turn led to diverse and effective corporate governance practices. Simultaneously, this approach also required clear explanations in case of noncompliance, which fostered accountability and transparency within the company. However, the comply or explain is is not without its downsides. The most detrimental among them is the heavy reliance upon shareholders’ engagement since the latter are the ones responsible for evaluating the quality of explanations given by executive directors. Additionally, it was found that companies provide only formal compliance, as their ‘tick-thebox’ mentality does not allow them to apply the spirit of the voluntary recommendations rather than the text itself. Thus, the reflexivity of the process is under question.10 0Item Restricted The Effect of TikTok Short Videos on British Generation Z Decision-Making to Visit Saudi Arabia for Leisure Tourism(University of Surrey, 2024-10) Alfaifi, Rayan Hassan; Alector, RibeiroThis research explores the impact of TikTok short videos on British Generation Z’s decision-making process regarding leisure tourism to Saudi Arabia. With the rise of social media as a powerful tool for influencing consumer behavior, especially in the tourism sector, this study investigates the role of TikTok content in shaping the perceptions and travel intentions of British Gen Z, a demographic known for its heavy engagement with social media platforms. Specifically, the research focuses on how different types of TikTok content—positive, negative, entertainment-focused, and cultural—affect the image of Saudi Arabia as a leisure tourism destination and influence Gen Z's decision to visit. The theoretical foundation of the study is based on two prominent psychological models: the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM). The TPB framework is used to analyze how attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control shape Gen Z’s behavioral intentions to visit Saudi Arabia. In contrast, the ELM focuses on the routes of persuasion (central and peripheral) to explain how TikTok content may influence users’ perceptions and decisions, depending on their level of cognitive engagement and involvement with the content. Together, these models help explain how social media content can drive changes in attitude and behavior, particularly in the context of tourism decision-making. The study employs a quantitative research design, utilizing an experimental approach. A total of 390 participants from the UK, all of whom belong to Gen Z (aged 18–28), were recruited through Prolific, an online data collection platform. These participants were randomly divided into five groups, with four experimental groups and one control group. Each experimental group was exposed to a different type of TikTok content: Group 1 watched a positive video about Saudi Arabia, Group 2 watched a negative video, Group 3 watched an entertainment-focused video, and Group 4 watched a cultural video. The control group was not exposed to any video content. All participants completed a structured questionnaire before and after the intervention, which measured their prior knowledge of Saudi Arabia, cognitive and affective images of the destination, and their intention to visit. Data collection was carried out using the Qualtrics platform, and the results were analyzed through SPSS using various statistical techniques, including mixed between-within subjects ANOVA, mediation analysis, and moderation analysis. These methods were chosen to test the nine hypotheses outlined in the study, which revolve around the influence of TikTok content on travel intentions, the mediating role of the perceived image, and the moderating effects of prior knowledge and involvement with TikTok content. The results of the study reveal several key findings. First, the type of TikTok content significantly influences British Gen Z’s travel intentions and perceptions of Saudi Arabia. Positive TikTok content about Saudi Arabia, such as a video featuring Cristiano Ronaldo discussing his positive experience in the country, significantly increased participants’ intention to visit. In contrast, negative content, such as an interview with an individual comparing Saudi Arabia unfavorably to Canada in terms of professional freedom, had a negative impact on travel intentions. Entertainment-focused content, showcasing fun activities and scenic shots of Aseer Province, had the strongest positive effect on both the perceived image of Saudi Arabia and the intention to visit, confirming the hypothesis that entertainment-related content has a stronger influence than other types of content. The study also confirms the mediating role of the perceived image of Saudi Arabia. Participants who viewed positive or entertainment-focused videos reported a more favorable cognitive and affective image of the country, which in turn increased their intention to visit. Conversely, those exposed to negative content reported a less favorable image, which decreased their travel intentions. This mediating effect highlights the importance of destination image in shaping travel decisions, particularly when potential tourists rely on user-generated content from social media platforms like TikTok. Moderation analysis further revealed that prior knowledge and involvement with TikTok content play significant roles in moderating the relationship between content valence and travel intention. Surprisingly, participants with higher prior knowledge of Saudi Arabia showed stronger reactions to both positive and negative content, suggesting that those who are more familiar with the country are more influenced by the type of content they encounter. Similarly, participants with higher involvement in TikTok content showed stronger intentions to visit Saudi Arabia after watching positive or entertainment-focused videos, indicating that higher engagement with the platform enhances the impact of the content. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the powerful influence of TikTok content on British Gen Z’s perceptions and travel intentions towards Saudi Arabia. Positive and entertainment-focused content can significantly enhance the destination’s image and increase the likelihood of attracting tourists from this demographic. On the other hand, negative content can harm the destination’s image and deter potential visitors. These findings suggest that Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, in line with Vision 2030, can benefit greatly from strategically leveraging TikTok and other social media platforms to promote its leisure tourism offerings. By creating engaging, visually appealing, and culturally rich content, the Kingdom can attract a larger share of British Gen Z travelers, further diversifying its tourism sector and boosting its international appeal.41 0Item Restricted IPO Regulation in Saudi Arabia: A Look into IPO Listing Requirements and their Future Suitability(University of Edinburgh, 2024) Mushaikh, Yousuf; Hood, ParkerThis thesis discusses the KSA capital market in light of the recent rise of private companies pursuing initial public offerings. The thesis discusses the history of KSA's capital market and its continuous growth in light of Vision 2030 and its realization programs. The thesis provides an overview of the listing requirements for IPOs in both Tadawul's main market and NOMU and assesses them in a comparative manner with UK's IPO listing rules. The aim of this thesis is to analyse IPO listing requirements in KSA and their role in enabling private companies going public. The thesis looks into the potential difficulties private companies may face in going public and analyses them while also looking into the potential of introducing SPACs in KSA to further grow the capital market, in line with Vision 2030's goals.27 0Item Restricted The Impact of Corporate Governance on Financial Performance in Saudi Listed Companies(University of Sussex, 2024-09) Madini, Numair; Madini, NumairThis dissertation investigates the impact of corporate governance on the financial performance of Saudi-listed companies, focusing on key governance elements such as board independence, executive compensation, audit committee effectiveness, transparency, and internal controls. With Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 serving as a backdrop, this study aims to understand how recent governance reforms and practices contribute to the financial outcomes of companies in a rapidly evolving economic environment. The research adopts a quantitative approach, analyzing data from a representative sample of Saudi-listed firms across various sectors. The findings reveal that robust corporate governance practices are strongly correlated with improved financial performance. Specifically, the presence of independent directors on company boards is associated with higher returns on equity and assets, underscoring the importance of unbiased oversight in corporate governance. Similarly, executive compensation that aligns with company performance positively influences long-term financial success, although the design of such compensation packages must carefully balance short-term and long-term incentives. Effective audit committees, characterized by their independence and financial expertise, play a critical role in ensuring the integrity of financial reporting and internal controls. The study also highlights the importance of transparency in financial reporting, with companies that adhere to stringent disclosure practices attracting more investment and enjoying lower capital costs. Additionally, strong internal controls and proactive risk management practices are essential for 2 maintaining financial stability and resilience in an increasingly complex and volatile business environment. The dissertation concludes that as Saudi Arabia continues to pursue its Vision 2030 goals, the adoption of global best practices in corporate governance will be crucial in achieving sustainable growth, attracting foreign investment, and ensuring the long-term success of its corporate sector. The findings provide valuable insights for corporate leaders, policymakers, and researchers, contributing to the ongoing development of corporate governance practices in Saudi Arabia and other emerging markets.29 0