Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted Sustainable Tourism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Balancing Local Community Benefits with Environmental Challenges.(Newcastle University, 2024) Alkahlani, Sabreen; Liu, Yu-LunSaudi Arabia's Vision 2030 emphasises sustainable tourism as a key component of an ongoing economic diversification strategy that aims to enhance socioeconomic welfare, address environmental issues, and preserve cultural heritage in both urban and rural areas across the country. While the Kingdom has been traditionally reliant on money from oil extraction, with its tourist trade dominated by religious tourism, its tourism sector is now being transformed and expanded, which requires a focus on sustainable practices. This study thus addresses a gap in the literature by examining the impacts of sustainable tourism on local communities and the environment in several rapidly developing regions such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. Quantitative surveys were applied as the primary analytical approach, and the findings highlight significant both social and economic benefits, including job creation and income growth, as well as challenges in terms of balancing economic development with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. The conclusion developed is therefore that, while Vision 2030 has improved public understanding of the benefits of tourism, there is a critical need to address various environmental challenges to ensure the long-term sustainability of the tourism sector. This leads to the development of recommendations focused on equitable economic distribution and the integration of sustainable practices in public transport and SME support.13 0Item Restricted The Quality of Education in Saudi Arabia and the Social and Economic Implications(University College London, 2024-09-01) Shaker, Linah Thamer; Kaddwal, LailaThis study critically examines the quality of education in Saudi Arabia, focusing on its implications for the country's socio-economic development. Utilizing a pragmatic approach, the research integrates both qualitative and quantitative data through an extensive literature review and secondary data analysis. The study analyses key dimensions of the Saudi educational system, including curriculum relevance, teacher quality, student outcomes, equity and inclusion, and the learning environment. Data from sources such as the OECD, TIMSS, and PISA assessments, alongside national reports, reveal persistent challenges in the alignment of the Saudi curriculum with the demands of a modern economy. The study also highlights significant disparities in educational quality between urban and rural areas, with rural students consistently underperforming in international assessments. The research further explores the implications of these educational shortcomings through the lenses of the Capability Approach and Dependency Theory, showing centralization, governance, and displaced ideologies within the educational system that influence long-term educational outcomes. The findings reveal significant gaps in educational quality, with implications for workforce readiness and socio-economic equity. These insights suggest a critical need for policy reforms that address the disparities and inefficiencies within the Saudi education system, with a view to enhancing its alignment with global educational standards and the evolving demands of the labour market. The study concludes that without significant reforms in curriculum design, teacher training, and resource allocation, the Saudi education system may continue to fall short in preparing students for the demands of a globalized economy. These insights highlight the need for a more flexible, localized, and contextually relevant educational policy that can address the diverse needs of Saudi students and support economic and social development.13 0Item Restricted Enhancing the Patient Journey and Reducing Waiting Times in the Referral Process from General Dentist to Speciaist Dental Clinics in the Riyadh Second Health Cluster(University College of London, 2024) Algwenim, Wafa; Davies, JulieAbstract Intermittent delays concerning dental referrals remain an ever-present problem in global health systems. These delays can negatively impact patient safety by worsening dental conditions, potentially leading to more complex and costly treatments and increasing the risk of complications. They also affect patients' experiences and the overall systems' performances. Although several strategies have been carried out to solve this problem such as growing the stock of specialists and efficient use of available resources, the problem could not be solved fully. Therefore, it becomes necessary to discuss integrated strategies that can address the demand and supply side as well as system imbalances producing these delays. This systematic literature review aims to obtain patterns of effective evidence-based treatments for streamlining the referral from general dentists to specialized dental units, especially concerning Riyadh Second Health Cluster. The review aims to bring together available evidence about the causes of referral delays, assessment of current interventions, and set up a framework to improve the referral process to minimize waiting time and patient outcomes in Riyadh. Aims The purpose of this report is to explore processes to streamline the patient referral pathway from GP dental clinics to specialist dental clinics. Specifically, it focuses on reducing waiting times and minimizing risks for patients by optimizing the referral process in Riyadh Second Health Cluster. Research Question: This research seeks to answer the following question: What strategies can streamline the dental referral process, reducing waiting times and minimizing patient risks in Riyadh's Second Health Cluster? Methodology This research adopts a case study method (Yin, 2018) to assess the dental referral process in Riyadh Second Health Cluster, establish the causes of delay, and recommend possible interventions. The research methodology of a systematic literature review based on operations management (Meredith & Shafer, 2019) principles are used to analyze the elements influencing demand, supply, and system factors of referral efficiency. The review also involved the use of sources in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and JSTOR, using keywords and terms including, “dental referral, waiting times, patient journey, healthcare efficiency, and digital pathways.” From this review, the generated conceptual framework shows the relationships between these aspects and their impact on the duration of time that waits for the patients, outcomes, and perceptions. It helps decide on the specific actions aimed at improving the referral process in Riyadh Second Health Cluster based on the specific characteristics of the area. Key Themes Key themes in an analysis of 40 articles revealed the importance of the multifactorial nature of referral delays (demand, supply, systems); the impact of waiting times on patient outcomes, experience, and system efficiency; the effectiveness of demand management, supply optimization, and system-level improvement strategies; as well as the potential for digital health technologies to enhance efficiency and communication. Theoretical Focus This report follows the structure of patient journey mapping, in conjunction with principles of service design (Stickdorn et al., 2018), where concepts of flowcharting business processes are in line with operations management (Slack, Brandon-Jones & Johnston, 2016). Demographically outlining the patient's journey towards the referred dentist helps in the following aspects: (1) Points to areas of delay and opportunities for improvement from the patient’s perspective; (2) Reveals non-value-added activities or stages; and (3) Provides a guide for the suggested solutions in redesigning the referral process. The present framework draws on insights from MBA Health by considering the patient as a consumer while also considering the processes of operation management. Implications for Practice Prolonging dental referrals disintegrates continuity of the care, complicates the treatment, makes it costly, and most importantly, leads to dissatisfied patients. Healthcare decision-makers and practitioners can use the findings of this review to enhance healthcare referrals, decrease the time clients spend waiting for dental compartments, and increase the quality of timely and appropriate dental care. These include an electronic referral system; referral of patients to specialists; enhancing communication & collaboration among PCPs by establishing clear referral guidelines and protocols, facilitating regular communication channels (e.g., secure messaging, EHRs, case conferences, direct consultations), implementing feedback mechanisms from specialists to general dentists, and promoting continuing education on collaborative care and referral management; purchasing of Health IT; and improving patient self-management regarding oral health. Findings: The literature review indicates that dental referral delays stem from the complex patient journey and healthcare system inefficiencies. These include poor communication between primary care providers and specialists, underutilization of health IT systems, and unnecessary referrals. Recommendation: The integration of digital health technologies, improved resource allocation, and enhanced communication strategies are essential to address these challenges. Additionally, increasing the number of dentists, particularly specialists, and streamlining the referral process through electronic systems and web-based platforms are crucial. Collaboration and integration among healthcare providers and strengthening the health IT framework are also important for an effective referral system. Limitations: This study has several limitations that should be considered when interpreting the findings. First, this study focused specifically on the Riyadh Second Health Cluster, and the findings may need to be more generalizable to other regions or healthcare systems with different organizational structures, resources, and cultural contexts. This limitation potentially restricts the broader applicability of the identified strategies to streamline the dental referral process, as proposed by the research question: "What strategies can be implemented to streamline the dental referral process from GP dental clinics to specialist dental clinics in Riyadh's Second Health Cluster, thereby reducing waiting times and minimizing risks for patients?" Second, since the number of quantifiable records concerning patient satisfaction and definite waiting time within the Riyadh Second Health Cluster is scarce, this work chiefly depends on the literature review and general tendencies as operating qualitative data. It has been an advantage, but it might have influenced the quantitative measurement of the effects of referral delays on the overall patients' satisfaction and safety. The precise measurement of the proposed strategies to the goal achieved according to the research question. Third, there was a broad literature search; therefore, it must be considered that other relevant studies needed to be identified. This may limit the number of strategies and best practices highlighted in improving the dental referral processes highlighted in the research question. Keywords: Dental referrals, waiting times, patient journey, healthcare efficiency, digital health, e-referral, teledentistry, demand management, supply optimization, integrated care, Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Second Health Cluster. Article classification: Research paper: A systematic review of strategies to improve dental referral efficiency.15 0Item Restricted Understanding the role of branding in shaping perceptions of Saudi Arabia as a tourist destination(University of Leeds, 2024-09) Alharthi, Dalia Talal; Papadopoulou, ChristinaThis dissertation aims to understand the role of branding in shaping perceptions of Saudi Arabia as a tourist destination from the citizens’ point of view and to highlight the Vision 2030 goals and how they have affected these perceptions. Given that Saudi Arabia is the second most popular destination for tourists in the Middle East and that the leisure tourism industry is rapidly growing and expanding, it is important to examine the impact of this growing industry local culture. This study is significant as it provides valuable insights into the real perceptions of Saudi Arabian citizens and how these perceptions may shape their future. It also highlights the goals of the promising Vision 2030 and how it will impact the economy and reduce the dependence on oil as an alternative source of revenue. The study used a quantitative research approach, collecting data through a questionnaire survey of 194 Saudi Arabian citizens from different ages and backgrounds, including both the general population and experts in the tourism industry. The results were analysed using the SPSS, and it was concluded that there is significant relationship between variables studied in Saudi Arabia. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into understanding the role of branding in shaping perceptions of Saudi Arabia as a tourist destination and highlights the the potential outcomes.10 0Item Restricted An Analysis of the Impact of Remote Work on the Work-Life Balance of Female Employees in Saudi Arabia(Newcastle University, 2024-09) Alajeel, Osama Mohammed; Procter, StephenAbstract Background: The worldwide transition to remote work, expedited by the COVID-19 pandemic, has profoundly impacted female employees, especially in Saudi Arabia, where socio-cultural norms and institutional factors significantly shape professional experiences. Women in Saudi Arabia encounter unique obstacles in reconciling professional and familial duties within a conservative societal context, rendering the effects of remote work on their work-life balance a significant subject of investigation. Purpose: An online survey was given to a diverse cohort of Saudi female employees from various sectors for quantitative analysis. A representative sample was obtained using stratified random sampling. The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, work-life balance theory, and feminist theory were used to study remote work, gender roles, and socio-cultural dynamics. Methods: A quantitative analysis was conducted using an online survey, which was administered to a diverse sample of female employees from various sectors in Saudi Arabia. A stratified random sampling approach was employed to ensure a representative sample. The study was guided by the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, work-life balance theory, and feminist theory to explore the complex relationship between remote work, gender roles, and socio-cultural dynamics. Results: Remote work increases flexibility but reinforces gender roles, especially in conservative regions. Insufficient organisational support for balancing work and home life increased stress for many women. The research delineates critical policy and practice deficiencies that obstruct women's capacity to attain a sustainable work-life equilibrium in remote work settings. Conclusions: The findings underscore the necessity for culturally attuned strategies to assist female employees in remote work environments. Recommendations encompass the implementation of flexible work policies, mental health resources, and targeted organisational support, which are crucial for realising the objectives of Vision 2030 regarding gender equality and enhanced work-life balance in Saudi Arabia.18 0Item Restricted Molecular Ecology of Endosymbiotic Bacteria in Arthropod Vectors in Saudi Arabia(University of Liverpool, 2024) Alotaibi, Atheer; Makepeace, BenjaminAbstract Pathogens affecting humans and other animals, including viruses, bacteria, nematodes, and protozoa, can be transmitted by rodent ectoparasites. These ectoparasites harbour various endosymbiotic microorganisms that influence their physiology and survival. Despite the known pathogenic impacts of these vectors, limited research exists in many regions on the molecular basis of vector-endosymbiont interactions, including for Wolbachia and Rickettsia species. This study investigates the ecology of symbionts and the diversity within arthropods collected from the Al-Baha and 'Asir regions of Saudi Arabia. The objective was to characterise the endosymbiotic bacteria in these arthropods using multi-locus sequence typing and phylogenetic analysis and determine the correlation between endobacterial sequence types and co-infection rates. Molecular identification on collected flea and tick samples was performed targeting the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene for ectoparasite species identification, the16S rRNA gene for Wolbachia, and the sca4 and gltA genes for Rickettsia identification, respectively. Results revealed the presence of multiple Wolbachia strains and high sequence similarity to known Rickettsia species, including Rickettsia conorii, which is associated with Mediterranean spotted fever. The phylogenetic analysis of flea Wolbachia identified potentially novel strains and possibly novel supergroups. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the symbiotic and possible pathogenic landscape of ectoparasites in Saudi Arabia. By mapping the diversity of these microorganisms, this study underscores the complex interactions between ectoparasites and their symbionts and the need for further research in overlooked regions.5 0Item Restricted An Analysis of the Impact of Remote Work on the Work-Life Balance of Female Employees in Saudi Arabia(Newcastle University, 2024-09) Alajeel, Osama Mohammed; Procter, StephenBackground: The worldwide transition to remote work, expedited by the COVID-19 pandemic, has profoundly impacted female employees, especially in Saudi Arabia, where socio-cultural norms and institutional factors significantly shape professional experiences. Women in Saudi Arabia encounter unique obstacles in reconciling professional and familial duties within a conservative societal context, rendering the effects of remote work on their work-life balance a significant subject of investigation. Purpose: An online survey was given to a diverse cohort of Saudi female employees from various sectors for quantitative analysis. A representative sample was obtained using stratified random sampling. The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, work-life balance theory, and feminist theory were used to study remote work, gender roles, and socio-cultural dynamics. Methods: A quantitative analysis was conducted using an online survey, which was administered to a diverse sample of female employees from various sectors in Saudi Arabia. A stratified random sampling approach was employed to ensure a representative sample. The study was guided by the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, work-life balance theory, and feminist theory to explore the complex relationship between remote work, gender roles, and socio-cultural dynamics. Results: Remote work increases flexibility but reinforces gender roles, especially in conservative regions. Insufficient organisational support for balancing work and home life increased stress for many women. The research delineates critical policy and practice deficiencies that obstruct women's capacity to attain a sustainable work-life equilibrium in remote work settings. Conclusions: The findings underscore the necessity for culturally attuned strategies to assist female employees in remote work environments. Recommendations encompass the implementation of flexible work policies, mental health resources, and targeted organisational support, which are crucial for realising the objectives of Vision 2030 regarding gender equality and enhanced work-life balance in Saudi Arabia.11 0Item Restricted Utilizing Data Analytics for Fraud Detection and Prevention in Online Banking Systems of Saudi Arabia(University of Portsmouth, 2024-09) Almotairy, Yazeed; Jiacheng, TanThis thesis addresses the critical issues of online banking and online banking fraud in Saudi Arabia. The thesis focusses on the older methodologies of the online banking systems in Saudi Arabia. The frauds are discussed in detail that are occurring in the online banking systems and are causing inconvenience to the users and account holders of the online banks and applications. In this thesis, online banking frauds are discussed thoroughly, and the traditional fraud detection methods are elaborated as well. The vulnerabilities in the current systems are explored. It discusses how the older systems are not performing well and why the new system encompasses the power of data analytics and machine learning. The methods proposed use a set of data analytics and machine learning algorithms and techniques to detect fraud or any fraudulent activity that a scammer or fraudster may perform. The results of this study explain how the proposed system can outperform the traditional methodologies being used in Saudi Arabian online banking systems. The proposed system can also enhance the user experience. The possible privacy and ethical concerns are also discussed. In the end, it is also discussed what the future prospects are for the researchers who are looking to enhance this research or want to work in the field of data analytics and machine learning to improve the security of the security of online banking applications. In conclusion, this thesis not only contributes to the body of knowledge on online banking frauds in Saudi Arabia and their detection but also features future research topics for new researchers.7 0Item Restricted A Review and Appraisal of Saudi Arabia’s Health and Oral Health Strategies(University College London (UCL), 2024-08) Alanazi, Alanoud; Tsakos, Georgios; Heilmann, AnjaAbstract Background: Oral health is a critical component of overall health, yet oral diseases like dental caries and periodontal diseases remain prevalent globally, including in Saudi Arabia. Despite their preventability, these conditions contribute significantly to the disease burden. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 aims to reform healthcare, including oral health, aligning with global health initiatives such as the WHO's Global Oral Health Action Plan (2023–2030). Aims: This study aims to review and evaluate Saudi Arabia's health and oral health strategies, assessing their design, implementation, and alignment with global health policies. The goal is to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for enhancing policy effectiveness within the context of Vision 2030. Methods: The study employs the Health Policy Triangle (HPT) framework to analyse key health policies in Saudi Arabia. Document analysis was used to systematically identify and evaluate relevant policies, focusing on the interaction between policy content, context, processes, and actors. Results: The analysis revealed that Saudi Arabia has made strides in aligning its health policies with global standards, particularly in tobacco control, sugar taxation, and water fluoridation. However, gaps still need to be in fully integrating oral health into primary healthcare and in systematically evaluating these policies. Conclusion: While progress has been made, Saudi Arabia's health policies would benefit from a more integrated and comprehensive approach to oral health. Enhancing policy coherence, improving access to care, and strengthening monitoring mechanisms are crucial for aligning with global health standards and achieving Vision 2030's objectives. Future efforts should focus on bridging identified gaps and fostering innovation through public-private partnerships to improve oral health outcomes in the Kingdom.9 0Item Restricted Advertisement Transcreation For Saudi Arabia: A case study(Goldsmiths University, 2024-09) Alghofili, Abeer; Maitland, SarahIn today's interconnected world, advertising can transcend geographical boundaries and engage with diverse audiences. However, as advertisements traverse cultural frontiers, the significance of transcreation in cross-cultural communication becomes increasingly apparent. Transcreation, involves tailoring the advertisement message to suit the audience of a particular target culture.Transcreators are required to navigate the nuances of different cultures to create effective advertisements. It is imperative to understand the target culture to ensure that the advertisement resonates with them and ultimately achieves the original purpose of the advertisement. Consequently, when transcreating advertisements for Saudi customers, it is essential to consider Saudi cultural norms, religious sensitivities, and societal expectations. This case study delves into the successful transcreation of an American advertisement for Amazon's voice assistant, Alexa, tailored specifically for the Saudi Arabian market. The chosen Saudi advertisement has garnered significant positive feedback for skilfully incorporating cultural elements that align with the research's objectives. The study thoroughly explores the evolving Saudi culture, examining the various aspects of a successful advertisement transcreation designed to resonate deeply with the target Saudi audience. The carefully curated advertisement effectively conveys its intended messages by embracing cultural relevance. Additionally, it serves as a reflection of the societal changes following the implementation of the Saudi 2030 Vision. To critically analyse the advertisement's cultural elements, a semiotic analysis delves into the contextual foundations of the transcreated advertisement. This case study aims to offer valuable insights for transcreators seeking to understand the nuances of Saudi culture.36 0