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.25 0Item Restricted The Intersection of Islamic Values and Ethical Leadership in Saudi Arabian SMEs and Their Influence on Employees’ Behaviour.(University of Reading, 2024-08) Alanazi, Mohammed; Bourne, Dorota; Adewale, AdeyinkaThis study explores ethical leadership and Islamic values in Saudi Arabian SMEs and their impact on employees’ behaviour. Using a qualitative methodological approach, data has been collected from semi-structured interviews with 30 employees and leaders representing five Saudi SMEs. The findings indicated that Saudi SME leaders act in accordance with Islamic principles and values and that in doing so, their behaviour and actions resemble ethical leadership. However, although most Saudi SME leaders exhibit ethical behaviour, others not – despite professing adherence to the Islamic faith. When leaders act ethically, their employees are more likely to do the same. Likewise, when leaders act unethically, their employees are more inclined toward unethical behaviours. Perhaps surprisingly, however, some leaders behave so ethically that they ultimately exert a negative influence on ethical employee behaviour. Furthermore, this study has found that Saudi SME leaders demonstrate four Islamic values – accountability, consultation, justice and trust – at three different levels: excessive, adequate and deficient. The behaviour of the leaders varies across the three levels, which also impacts the ethical behaviour of their employees. Based on the findings, it has been argued that an ‘adequate’ level of the four values is preferable to excessive or deficient levels. This is because at the adequate level, the four leadership values create a positive impact on employees. Contrarily, the impact of values at excessive and deficient levels is negative.21 0Item Restricted THE MEDIATION ROLES OF MARKETING INNOVATION AND MARKET ORIENTATION BETWEEN ENTERPRISE SOCIAL MEDIA UTILIZATION AND PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN SAUDI ARABIA(Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 2024-06-27) Alhamami, Ahmed; Hashim, Noor Azuan Binti; Hamid, Roshayati Binti Abdul; Hamid, Siti Ngayesah Ab.The usage of social media (SM) by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) received relatively less attention, and the findings in the literature are mixed in terms of the effect of SM on SME performance. This study examines the effect of enterprise SM utilization on SME business performance in Saudi Arabia. SM utilization is operationalized into SM internal utilization and SM external utilization. Based on the resource-based view and contingency theory, this study proposed that SM internal utilization positively affects SME business performance and marketing innovation (MI). The study also proposed that SM external utilization positively affects SME business performance and marketing orientation (MO). MO and MI are expected to affect the SME business performance. MI is proposed as a mediator between SM internal utilization and SME performance, while MO is proposed to mediate the effect of SM external utilization on SME performance. The population of this study is the SMEs in Al-Riyadh city in Saudi Arabia. A systematic random sampling is deployed. The data was collected using a questionnaire. The questionnaire was validated, and a pilot study was conducted to check its reliability. A total of 374 respondents representing SMEs participated in this study. The data examination was conducted, and descriptive statistics of respondents and variables were presented. The finding was derived using Smart PLS version 4. The findings showed that SM internal utilization positively affected SME business performance and MI. SM external utilization affected SME business performance and MO. Both MO and MI positively affected the SME business performance. MI partially mediated the effect of SM internal utilization on SME business performance, while MO also mediated the effect of SM external utilization on SME business performance. The findings were discussed, as well as the theoretical and practical implications. More studies in different locations, populations, and sectors, and using different variables are needed. Decision makers are advised to create a rewarding culture for innovative ideas, be more engaged with customers to understand their needs and wants and create rewarding competition and surveys to assess customers’ demands.10 0Item Restricted The Internationalisation of Saudi SMEs Based on Cultural Differences’ Risk and Opportunity(University of Plymouth, 2024-04-15) Alsaeedi ,Nawaf; Bahareth, AseelPurpose: This research explores the intricate framework of cultural differences and their impact on the internationalisation of Saudi Arabia's small and medium size enterprises (SMEs). The research examines the various cultural dimensions that have an impact on internationalisation. Method: A primary research was conducted using a structured online questionnaire to obtain quantitative data, with 200 Saudi SMEs employees at the managerial and operational levels. 13 thematic questions in the questionnaire were created with Qualtric software. Samples were gathered randomly using the researcher's LinkedIn profile, email, WhatsApp, and Telegram. SPSS version 27 was used to analyse the data. Results: Participants were primarily female (52.5%), with a broad age distribution and balanced distribution of employees (managerial 42.5% and operational 57.5%). The majority of participants claim that they should expand into the countries where Arabic is spoken. Moreover, hierarchical structures are important, as 71.5% of participants said it is easier to expand in countries with well-defined hierarchies. The study also reveals contradictory inclination against risk-taking cultures (75% disagreeing or strongly disagreeing). This research highlights the significance of following rules (73% agreeing or strongly agreeing), building strong relationships at work (68%), and addressing the cultural inclination towards short-term orientation (69%). Conclusion: These findings provide significant strategic implications for Saudi SMEs to expand internationally. Businesses should adapt their expansion plans in accordance with cultural preferences, highlighting the significance of language, organisational frameworks, and an advanced understanding of risk tolerance. The dynamic landscape of SMEs in Saudi Arabia requires a thorough analysis of the relationship of different cultural dimensions in order to expand their business successfully in international markets.26 0Item Restricted Impact of Technology Adoption on the Success of E-Commerce Technologies in Small and Medium Enterprises(The University of Newcastle, 2024-02-17) Almtiri, Ziad Hmwd A; Miah, Shah J; Noman, NasimulThe primary task of this research is to investigate the relationship between the adoption of technology and the success of e-commerce technologies in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The study examines how specific technologies affect the overall performance and profitability of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) SMEs. To study the connection between these variables, it is essential to consider e-commerce trends among modern SME businesses. E-commerce technologies become more and more evolving and relevant in different business operations, bringing benefits and convenience to all stakeholders involved. Although e-commerce is developing at a higher speed in the KSA country context compared to other countries, there is still scepticism in existing studies and substantial issues to its full adoption were discussed. Therefore, the aim of this research is therefore of paramount task to reveal the positive effect of e-commerce technology and encourage SMEs to incorporate technology adoption into their business plans. For this, the research uses a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis, namely, a questionnaire, with a positivist interpretation of the collected data. To analyse the data accurately, the study adopts a Descriptive Statistics approach in SPSS platform. All the participants who are involved in the research is subjected and treated ethically following the University of Newcastle ethical guidelines (Protocol Number: H-2022-0290). The main limiting factors for the adoption of e-commerce technologies in the KSA have to do with the perception of e-commerce amongst the SMEs managers. Business Organisations are eager to use new technologies, realising their benefits for their continuous improvement of practices. E-commerce, on the other hand, is blurry in the minds of SMEs practitioners of the KSA, which makes them distrustful, and hence resistant to the adoption of new technologies that impact in developing e-commerce strategies.50 0Item Restricted Fintech and Entrepreneurship: An Assessment Model to Evaluate Policy Instruments for Fintech Adoption by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)(ProQuest, 2023-11-01) Alassaf, Deemah; Daim, Tugrul U.Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the engines that drive economic development. They are the backbone of the middle class as they provide social stability, innovation, inclusive growth, and poverty alleviation. SMEs contribute significantly to job creation, employment, tax provision and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, they face inferior conditions and challenges when it comes to their financing compared to that of large enterprises, as well as having a high expectancy of failing. Because of these limitations, SMEs tend to grow slowly since building up higher credit is difficult for them, and in addition to this, they lack access to broad financing channels. Hence, Fintech solutions offer promising potential for improving SMEs’ access to finance through extending them more accessible and available services, more efficient credit risk assessments and reduced transaction costs. These tools can offer a valuable opportunity for ventures that are too small in size, and involve a great deal of risk, or serve a social purpose. While researchers and practitioners have been promoting Fintech as a potential financial safeguard for SMEs’ needs, evidence shows an inadequate adoption rate of SMEs to such solutions. Therefore, this research aims to provide a comprehensive examination for Fintech policy instruments and analyze their effectiveness on increasing the adoption of Fintech by SMEs through evaluating the essential policy targets impacting the adoption of Fintech and assessing their weights and priorities in the context of SMEs. The research was built upon an inclusive hierarchical decision model and a comprehensive literature review. Experts’ insights were utilized to identify the most important factors influencing Fintech adoption and policy effectiveness. The Hierarchical Decision Modeling (HDM) methodology was used to identify the relative importance of those factors proposing a policy evaluation tool to assess the effectiveness of policy instruments on increasing Fintech adoption. To test the practicality and value the research model adds to the research objective, a case study of the policy instrument effectiveness, the Saudi Arabian regulatory sandbox, was conducted. This research presents the identification of seventeen distinct policy targets that fall within four main perspectives along with their relative weights, as it also integrates the desirability curves methodology that measures the importance of each perspective and criterion. The case study was introduced to illustrate how the model could be used to identify the policy instrument’s actual performance in terms of influencing SMEs adoption of Fintech, identify the instrument’s strengths and weaknesses, and offer recommendations and guiding principles on how to improve the detected weaknesses to increase the policy instrument’s effectiveness on increasing the adoption of Fintech by SMEs.29 0Item Restricted What are the driving forces behind entrepreneurship and innovation in small and medium-sized Entrepreneurship in the Jazan region?(Saudi Digital Library., 2023-11-29) Alhazmi, Amjad Abdulrahman; Huxtable-Thomas, LouisaThis study aims to investigate the driving forces that motivate entrepreneurship and innovation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. By exploring the motivations for entrepreneurs, factors that stimulate innovation, government policies and support programs, and barriers to establishing SMEs, this research seeks to shed valuable light on the entrepreneurial and innovative landscape in its region. As it utilizes quantitative methods of investigation, its findings offer insights into the motivations and experiences of entrepreneurs in the area. Data was gathered using the primary research method by distributing around 4200 questionnaires. Perspective purposive sampling was employed, choosing samples relevant to the objectives of this research study (Owners and managers of SMEs). Finally, descriptive statistics was utilized to identify patterns and themes within this data set. The analysis of 104 responses revealed the key drivers behind entrepreneurialism and innovation among SMEs in Jazan. The study determined that financial incentives and support, market opportunities and demand, personal motivation and passion, and networking/collaboration were crucial components in encouraging entrepreneurialism. innovation, technological development, and accessibility. Competitive advantage and survival, customer needs and satisfaction, employee training and empowerment, financial support and incentives, regulatory environment and ease of doing business, and networking and business support organizations were identified as key drivers. This study addressed some of the challenges entrepreneurs encounter when starting SMEs in Jazan, such as accessing capital and funding, market entry barriers and competition, and lack of infrastructure. Limited access to capital and infrastructure poses obstacles to entrepreneurs. Therefore, this study recommends increasing financial support through networking events, investing in infrastructure improvements, and creating entrepreneurship education programs aimed at supporting SMEs further in Jazan. It also addresses any limitations to current research as well as provides suggestions for future research endeavors.24 0Item Restricted ''Perspectives of Saudi employees working in Small and Medium Sized enterprises in Saudi Arabia about the impact of transformational leadership on their reactions and attitudes towards organizational change''(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-08-25) Shalhoob, Huda Shafiq; Doloriert, ClairThe focus on the study highlighted purposed was informed by the lack of Saudi studies that examine employee's perspectives about the key mechanisms and variables contributing to this positive effect. To understand the employees' perspectives about the impact of transformational leadership on reactions of employees to organisational change, a qualitative methodological approach was adopted. Using open-ended semi-structured questions allowed in-depth exploration of how employees described their perspectives about the change process. Data was collected from interviews with 8 participants. The findings revealed a complex emotional landscape among employees that accompanies organizational changes, which require transformational leaders to understand and manage. The study also showed that transformational leadership positively impacts employee attitudes towards change by fostering hope, personal growth, and collective success. Leadership styles that incorporate collaborative and participatory leadership, grounded in authenticity and align with transformational values fosters positive perceptions. Transparency and effective communication were also noted to promote ownership, empowerment, trust and engagement during change. The other conclusion is that involving employees in decision-making and providing ongoing support enhances commitment and help address uncertainty. Finally, the study indicated that effective change management involves presenting an inspiring vision. The key message for leaders and practitioners is that successful change goes beyond technical aspects; it requires a holistic approach that considers the emotional, psychological, and collaborative dimensions of both leaders and employees. This approach can lead to more successful and sustainable organizational transformations.19 0Item Restricted A Systematic Literature Review on The Critical Determinants of Green Innovation Adoption in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: Evidence-Based Recommendations for Promoting Green Entrepreneurship in Emerging and Developed Economies(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-11-06) Alshudaied, Turki; Das, RanjitEco-innovation (EI), green innovation (GI), and sustainable innovation (SI) are key drivers of sustainable development and competitive advantage for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in emerging and developed economies. In this study, we aim to show how SMEs can pursue eco-friendly innovation in a constantly changing business landscape and develop the methodological skills and research expertise necessary for future doctoral studies. This study was conducted in Scotland, and the specific objectives were to: (1) identify the determinants driving GI adoption; (2) compare GI adoption patterns in emerging and developed economies; (3) examine the interactions and relationships among the identified determinants in SMEs; (4) assess the effectiveness of strategies deployed; and (5) provide practical recommendations for promoting GI adoption. Using the PRISMA framework, we conducted a comprehensive thematic analysis of 47 peer-reviewed articles, and NVivo software was used to analyse the data qualitatively through an interpretive lens. We used four theoretical perspectives to guide our analysis and foster a deeper understanding of how business strategies interact: Resource-Based View (RBV), which focuses on how firms leverage their internal resources and capabilities to gain competitive advantage; stakeholder theory, which emphasises how firms balance the interests and expectations of various stakeholders; resource dependency theory (RDT), which examines how firms manage their dependencies on external resources and actors; and institutional theory (INT), which explores how firms conform to or resist the institutional pressures and norms in their environment. Our findings reveal that SMEs should establish sustainable relationships with various organisations to overcome resource constraints and environmental uncertainties related to GI adoption. In addition, this study proposes a comprehensive strategy for SMEs on how to adopt GI practises based on the integration of the four theoretical perspectives. Our study contributes to the literature on GI adoption in SMEs by providing a systematic review of the existing evidence and offering practical recommendations for SMEs, policymakers, and researchers.31 0Item Restricted INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF LEAN SIX SIGMA PRINCIPLES ON ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING DATA GOVERNANCE SYSTEMS IN SMES: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY USING GROUNDED THEORY AND ISM APPROACH(2023) Alduraibi, Manal; Laux, Chad; Springer, John; Dietz, Eric; Laux, DawnData Governance and Data Privacy are critical aspects of organizational management that are widely utilized across all organizational scales. However, this research focused specifically on the significance of Data Governance and Data Privacy in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). While the importance of maintaining these systems is paramount across all organizations, the challenges faced by SMEs in maintaining these systems are greater due to their limited resources. These challenges include potential errors such as data leaks, use of corrupted data, or insufficient data, as well as the difficulty in identifying clear roles and responsibilities regarding data handling. To address these challenges, this research investigated the impact of utilizing Lean Six Sigma (LSS) tools and practices to overcome the anticipated gaps and challenges in SMEs. The qualitative methodology utilized is a grounded theory design, chosen due to the limited understanding of the best LSS practices for achieving data governance and data privacy in SMEs and how LSS can improve the adoption of data governance concerning privacy in SMEs. Data were collected using semi-structured interview questions that were reviewed by an expert panel and pilot tested. The sampling method included purposive, snowballing, and theoretical sampling, resulting in 20 participants being selected for interviews. Open, axial, and selective coding were performed, resulting in the development of a grounded theory. The obtained data were imported into NVivo, a qualitative analysis software program, to compare responses, categorize them into themes and groups, and develop a conceptual framework for Data Governance and Data Privacy. An iterative data collection and analysis approach was conducted to ensure that all aspects were considered. The applied grounded theory resulted in retrieving the themes used to generate a theory from the participants’ descriptions of LSS, SMEs, data governance, and data privacy. Finally, ISM technique has been applied to identify the relationships between the concepts and factors resulted from the grounded theory. It helps arranging the levels the criteria, drawing the relationships in a flowchart, and providing valuable insights to the researcher.27 0