Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted Government Legislation's Influence on Clean Energy Integration: A Legal Analysis of Challenges and Opportunities for Corporations in Saudi Arabia and the UK Clean Energy Sectors.(University of Westminster, 2025) Alsudais, Saleh; Muth, Daniela1. Abstract: The study has provided a comparative study on the Legal Frameworks prevalent in Saudi Arabia and the UK considering the challenges faced by the corporations dealing with clean energy. It is by the year 2030 that the UK intends to accomplish the aim of producing “about half of its electricity using renewable energy sources, with the remaining 50% to be generated from gas” taking into account the point that it is beyond the testament of the commitment to sustainability for Saudi Arabia. As per the principles of the International Energy Agency (IEA), "Saudi’s electricity generation mix is still dominated by natural gas (58.4%) and oil (41.3%)” with around 0.3% found being “sourced from renewables, the majority of which is generated by solar photovoltaic (PV) facilities” . The Ten Point Plan for the Green Industrial Revolution, an initiative of the UK has been illustrated in Figure 1 below for harnessing the potential of nature to absorb carbon through the establishment of new National Parks, as well as the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, thereby founding superior biodiversity-related havens, concentrating on the 2030’s goal of safeguarding the 30% of England’s countryside. Besides, “the Climate Change Act sets legally binding targets to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the UK by at least 80% by 2050, from 1990 levels” , which has become the Parliament’s Act in the year 2008. 1.1. Research Purpose and Objectives The main purpose of conducting this research is to provide a comparison between the clean energy regulations of Saudi Arabia and the UK. In this context, it considers exploring the impact that Saudi Arabia's accession has on the World Trade Organization taking into account the clean energy sector, encompassing the manner, in which national legislation can be influenced by international trade commitments, thereby supporting the sector’s growth over the years. Considerably, the research objectives that have been formulated for being discussed in the study are as follows: 1. Analyse Government Legislation: Examine how government legislation influences the integration of clean energy in the corporate sectors of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. 2. Identify Challenges and Opportunities: Identify the key legal challenges and opportunities that corporations face when complying with clean energy regulations in both regions. 3. Compare Regulatory Frameworks: Provide a comparative analysis of the clean energy regulatory frameworks in Saudi Arabia and the UK, highlighting similarities and differences. 4. Assess Impact on Corporations: Evaluate the impact of these legislative measures on corporate strategies and operations related to clean energy adoption. 5. Recommend Best Practices: Suggest best practices and actionable insights for policymakers and corporate stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of legal frameworks and promote sustainable corporate growth in the clean energy sector. 1.2. Research Questions The completion of the study can contribute to the addressing of the main research question as provided below: • What are the key similarities and differences between the clean energy regulatory frameworks in Saudi Arabia and the UK? For addressing the main question, the below-listed sub-questions also need to be duly addressed: • How does government legislation impact the integration of clean energy in the corporate sectors of Saudi Arabia? • What are the primary legal challenges and opportunities for corporations complying with clean energy regulations in Saudi Arabia? • How do these legislative measures affect corporate strategies and operations related to clean energy adoption in both regions? • What best practices can be recommended to policymakers and corporate stakeholders to improve legal compliance and promote a robust clean energy sector in Saudi Arabia 1.3. Research Background For the attainment of the research aim and objectives, it is first of all important to understand the different terminologies associated with Clean Energy Legislation, the definitions for the different concepts have thus been outlined herein for setting up an apt foundation for the study. Renewable Energy can be defined as the “energy derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed” with some of the common ones being solar, wind, and geothermal energy. Although the terms ‘Renewable Energy' and 'Green Energy' are used interchangeably there exists a significant difference between the two and that is Green Energy can be produced from a particular source and with the application of a specific method, which by no means can be harmful to the natural environment. It can hence be stated that all renewable energy sources cannot be considered as green energy but the majority of the sources of green energy are found to be renewable in nature ; . One of the most common types of renewable energy is the Solar Energy and Wind Energy with the former found to be generated from Sun and the latter directly from the air. In this context, Solar energy is found to be “created by nuclear fusion that takes place in the sun” and is indeed “necessary for life on Earth, and can be harvested for human uses such as electricity” . On the other hand, wind energy generation is primarily associated with kinetic energy, i.e., the energy evolving from motion. To understand wind energy more aptly, it can be stated that a "wind turbine takes the kinetic energy of wind and turns it into electrical energy” . Another important concept to be discussed throughout the study is Carbon Emission, which refers to the carbon compounds getting released into the atmosphere in the forms of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) contributing to the trapping of heat into the atmosphere and in turn leading to the occurrence of global warming as the foremost outcome . To provide a detailed discussion on Clean Energy Integration, knowing about the Hydrogen Economy is of great significance and it can be defined as “a vision of an energy delivery infrastructure based on hydrogen as a carbon-free energy carrier” . A multifaceted global movement encompasses a state of transition taking place towards renewable energy, as well as sustainability. It is further driven by the factors of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, identifying the urgent need for combating climate change, and promoting environmental conservation. One of the several trends that contributes to the restructuring of the energy landscape universally is the renewable technologies’ economic viability, which can be inferred from the dramatic improvement brought about in the solar, as well as wind power’s competitiveness from the year 2010 to 2020. The electricity expenses incurred from utility-scale solar Photovoltaics (PV) had fallen by 85% with a reduction in Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) by 68% followed by a fall in the onshore wind and offshore wind by 56% and 48% respectively. It can further be inferred that “up to 800 gigawatts (GW) of existing coal-fired capacity could be economically replaced by new renewables capacity, saving the electricity system up to USD 32 billion per year and reducing carbon-dioxide (CO2) emissions by up to 3 gigatonnes (Gt) CO2” . Rapidly growing usage of renewable energy technologies is another trend indicating the global shift towards sustainability. It can be understood from the point that wind energy production has risen globally from 0.5 petawatt-hours (PWh) (2011) to 4.8 PWh (2021) with the world found to be harnessing 2.7 PWh of solar energy in the year 2021 from 2009 showing an increase by 4,660%. Contextually, “the shift to renewable energy picked up speed in 2022, contributing to a 107 gigawatt (GW) global surge, making up 90% of new power capacity, fossil fuels included. In 2023, this is expected to surpass 440 GW, matching India's total power capacity. By 2024, the International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts, driven mostly by solar PV technology advances, this growth will equal the combined power capacities of China and the US” . Therefore, it can be stated that shifts have not by any means taken place automatically but necessitate the need for making continuous investment in the domains of training, as well as re-skilling so that workers can be prepared for taking up the required roles and playing their parts efficiently in the sectors dealing with renewable energy resources. This study initially develops the Introduction chapter, which offers insights into the International Energy Agency’s principles dominating the legal frameworks of the UK and Saudi Arabia along with the policies being presented in the Ten-Point Plan for the Green Industrial Revolution. The purpose and objective of the study along with the research questions have also been underlined herein with brief description of the related terminologies. This is followed by the second chapter of International Framework for Clean Energy, which demonstrates in details the diverse factors and components of the frameworks and their impacts in the long run. In the third chapter of the study, the Legal Frameworks of Clean Energy prevalent in Saudi Arabia has been discussed in details encompassing the related theoretical frameworks, application of Corporate Social Responsibility policies, and the challenges associated with the same. Another point of discussion under this chapter is the Vision 2030 and Clean Energy Legislation of Saud Arabia, which is followed by the strategic initiatives and legal aspects associated with the same. Clean Energy Legislation Trends of Saudi Arabia has also been discussed herein based on the data gathered on the impacts of the legal frameworks on the corporations dealing with clean energy services. The fourth chapter is the Legal Frameworks of Clean Energy prevalent in the UK, which not only discussed about the relevant theoretical frameworks along with description of the Climate Change Act 2008 and the Green Industrial Revolution but also the Legislation Trends of Clean Energy within the nation. The fifth and the most important chapter of the study is the Comparative Analysis of Legal Frameworks in Saudi Arabia and the UK. In this case, the foremost section demonstrates the differences lying between the legal and regulatory frameworks of both the nations. The similarities and differences lying amidst the legal challenges in the corporate compliances of the UK and Saudi Arabia have also been critically compared and interpreted under this section. This is followed by the comparison of the clean energy sectors’ opportunities under the existing frameworks, which have been considerably described in this section of the study for demonstrating the differences within the markets of the UK and Saudi Arabia, specifically the grounds of investment incentives and market access as well.20 0Item Restricted How has Saudi Arabia maintained political stability, monarchical survival and curtailed the traditional patronage system while implementing economic and social reforms under Vision 2030?(The London School of Economics and Political Science, 2024) Alenazi, Jenna Hamid H; Hertog, SteffenThis dissertation investigates the impact of Saudi Vision 2030's comprehensive socio-economic reforms on the political stability and monarchical survival of Saudi Arabia. By examining specific economic and social reforms, implemented since 2016, it focuses on how these changes have contributed to the monarchy’s resilience. Also, it examines the reforming and curtailment of the traditional patronage system, highlighting how through Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has developed an updated social contract. Key economic reforms analysed include the introduction of VAT, deregulation of oil and gas prices and the increase in renewable energy. Social reforms include youth unemployment, female labour force participation and housing subsidies. This study employs a qualitative approach, utilising process-tracing to analyse key data from 2016 to early 2024, including GDP growth, labour force participation, unemployment rates and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), supplemented by government documents, to measure the progress, effectiveness and implementation levels of the reforms. The findings reveal that the economic and social reforms under Vision 2030 have mitigated potential political instability through economic diversification, job creation for women and youth and the strategic balancing of austerity measures with compensatory programs. By aligning social reforms with societal expectations and addressing public concerns, the government has demonstrated its capacity to meet modern demands lessening potential for unrest. Furthermore, this study suggests that these reforms, despite curtailing the traditional patronage system, have reinforced the monarchy’s legitimacy. The concept of monarchical survival is used to demonstrate how Saudi’s monarchy has successfully navigated turbulent political, economic and social challenges, ensuring its continued survival in a rapidly changing landscape.23 0Item Restricted EXAMINING SAUDI ARABIAN PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON THEIR PREPAREDNESS TO ADDRESS 21ST CENTURY SKILLS AND SUPPORT PROGRAMS WITH THE PERSPECTIVES OF THEIR COURSE INSTRUCTORS(Kent State University, 2024-10) Almutairi, Rubaya; Courtney, ScottThis study’s purpose was to determine how well education colleges in Saudi Arabia prepare pre-service teachers to address 21st-century skills with their future students. The perceptions of college professors and pre-service teachers at several Saudi education colleges across the country were examined according to the methods of quantitative research and descriptive statistics. Data was obtained through a Likert scale survey consisting of 30 closed-ended questions regarding how well Saudi education colleges impart four 21st-century skills— computer literacy, research skills, critical thinking, soft skills—and two support programs—special education and English as a foreign language (EFL). The data was analyzed using pairwise t-test comparisons to discover which skills were most prioritized by professors and pre-service teachers. It was found that special education was perceived as requiring the most improvement, with EFL in second place and computer literacy in third place, followed by research skills. An extensive literature review was also conducted on the topic. Based on the findings, it is recommended that special education, EFL, computer literacy, and research skills receive the most focus during any future attempts to reform the Saudi education system, and that the input of Saudi pre-service teachers be consulted during any process of upgrading curriculum related to critical thinking, special education, research skills, and soft skills.14 0Item Restricted Language Teacher Cognition of Academic Literacies: Narrative Case Studies of Female EFL Teachers in Saudi Universities(Victoria University, 2024-05) Allehaby, Eshraq; Razoumova, Oksana; Henderson, FionaThe educational system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has undergone significant transformations since 2016, driven by the Human Capability Development Program of Saudi Vision 2030 (SV2030). The primary aim of this program is to enhance the country’s global competitiveness through education. In this context, English education becomes pivotal, and specifically English as a foreign language (EFL) in higher education. In KSA, students enrolling at university must complete the preparatory year program where they learn EFL alongside academic literacies (AcLits) including critical thinking, database searching, synthesising, academic conventions, formal and informal registers, and proficiency in various genres of communication. This means that EFL teachers are expected to possess both subject matter expertise and AcLits skills to teach these to their students. By guiding students through language mediation and facilitating their acquisition of AcLits, EFL teachers contribute to helping students navigate the challenges of their disciplines and to academic and professional success. Hence the question: How can Saudi’s MOE ensure that EFL teachers are adequately prepared for the task? The study employs cultural-historical activity theory to examine language teacher cognition, aiming to uncover their knowledge, beliefs, and teaching practices regarding AcLits. The research uses contradiction as a historically accumulated structural system to highlight the tensions, absence, or conflicts in the AcLits phenomenon. Narrative case studies involving six female EFL teachers at two Saudi universities were conducted. Qualitative data collection methods, such as reflective accounts, semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and relevant AcLits documents were used to examine the connection between teachers’ cognition and its impact on teaching practices. The findings from this study indicate that participating EFL teachers demonstrated a vague understanding of AcLits, primarily equating them with basic study skills. Consequently, EFL teachers face challenges in effectively and consistently integrating these literacies into their instructional practices. The lack of sufficient pre-service training, education, and professional development are factors. Teachers’ primary focus was on facilitating students’ academic success without negatively impacting their iv grade point average, resulting in an emphasis on exam-oriented skills. When attempting to incorporate AcLits aspects into the classroom, the instruction often lacked a systematic and sustained scaffolded approach. Moreover, teacher-led discussions relied mainly on lecturing, limiting interaction in a highly structured classroom setting. The study identified significant gaps in students’ prior English preparation, particularly in secondary schools. Furthermore, the constrained time available for language instruction during the preparatory year program and the challenges in implementing the latest advancements in language teaching methodology, specifically the communicative approach, led teachers to prioritise developing only students’ English language proficiency. By nurturing teachers’ AcLits skills, KSA can bolster its education system and incorporate the SV2030 goals. The significance of teachers dedicated to fostering AcLits in KSA cannot be understated, emphasising the urgent need for high-quality, sustainable professional development programs. Policymakers and language teacher-training providers share a responsibility to ensure the successful implementation of AcLits. Whether through pre-service training or ongoing career development, comprehensive programs are required to equip teachers with a profound understanding of AcLits principles and effective integration strategies, thereby cultivating a generation of internationally competitive students.102 0Item Restricted Integrating Artificial Intelligence Technologies in Sustainable Project Management(University of Exeter, 2024-07-04) Alqurashi, Abdullah; Roman, Jose MelenezSustainable project management encompassed the economic, environmental, and social aspects of a project to attain the project objectives in a sustainable manner. Nonetheless, the integration of AI technologies in sustainable project management was still low due to factors like inadequate knowledge of technical know-how, costs of implementing AI technologies, and resistance from the project team. This research aimed to identify the factors that hinder the application of AI in project management for sustainable practices and provided recommendations for enhanced application. The research sought to understand the status of AI adoption, challenges faced, and the impact of knowledge management practices on project performance based on the survey of 40 professionals in Saudi Arabia. The findings of this research enhanced the theoretical understanding of the topic by identifying that the level of awareness of AI is much higher than the level of its adoption. The research results show that although the level of awareness of AI technologies is relatively high, the implementation of the technologies is limited because of technical, financial, and organizational constraints. This research has also highlighted how knowledge management practice can be used to close this gap which can enhance increase in project performance, reduce costs and promote innovation. The research provided practical recommendations for organizations interested in using AI for sustainability and following best practices on a global level and in alignment with the vision of Saudi Arabia for the future. When applying these recommendations, professionals will be able to increase project efficiency, reduce costs, and promote innovation which contributes to sustainable development goals. This research presents a conceptual model that outlines how AI technologies can be applied in sustainable project management, fostering innovation and sustainable development. The research also highlights the necessity for future research to delve deeper into developing actionable frameworks and practical strategies for integrating AI into sustainable project management.66 0Item Restricted How has Saudi Arabia maintained political stability, monarchical survival and curtailed the traditional patronage system while implementing economic and social reforms under Vision 2030?(The London School of Economics and Political Science, 2024-08) Alenazi, Jenna Hamid; Hertog, SteffenThis dissertation investigates the impact of Saudi Vision 2030's comprehensive socio-economic reforms on the political stability and monarchical survival of Saudi Arabia. By examining specific economic and social reforms, implemented since 2016, it focuses on how these changes have contributed to the monarchy’s resilience. Also, it examines the reforming and curtailment of the traditional patronage system, highlighting how through Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has developed an updated social contract. Key economic reforms analysed include the introduction of VAT, deregulation of oil and gas prices and the increase in renewable energy. Social reforms include youth unemployment, female labour force participation and housing subsidies. This study employs a qualitative approach, utilising process-tracing to analyse key data from 2016 to early 2024, including GDP growth, labour force participation, unemployment rates and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), supplemented by government documents, to measure the progress, effectiveness and implementation levels of the reforms. The findings reveal that the economic and social reforms under Vision 2030 have mitigated potential political instability through economic diversification, job creation for women and youth and the strategic balancing of austerity measures with compensatory programs. By aligning social reforms with societal expectations and addressing public concerns, the government has demonstrated its capacity to meet modern demands lessening potential for unrest. Furthermore, this study suggests that these reforms, despite curtailing the traditional patronage system, have reinforced the monarchy’s legitimacy. The concept of monarchical survival is used to demonstrate how Saudi’s monarchy has successfully navigated turbulent political, economic and social challenges, ensuring its continued survival in a rapidly changing landscape.11 0Item Restricted Opportunities and Challenges for Hosting the 2034 Men’s FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia: Developing A Priority Indicator Framework(Loughborough University, 2024-09-14) Ali, Kamel; Ghaye, TonyThe purpose of the study was to explore the distinctive qualities of Saudi Arabia in hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup™, and to develop a priority indication framework that specifies areas of development need to be addressed early to achieve successful delivery and sustainable legacy for the event. The study adopted a mixed-method approach and a single case study strategy. Qualitative research was conducted in the form of semi-structured interviews with four participants from different sport backgrounds guided by convenience sampling. The study administered an online survey to generate quantitative data research, to a defined population of 150 out of which 121 respondents completed and submitted the survey. A snowball sampling technique was employed for both qualitative and quantitative parts to identify additional participants' individuals or groups. Manual analysis techniques were used for both qualitative and quantitative primary data. The empirical case confirms that Saudi Arabia is ready to host the 2034 World Cup utilizing its distinctive qualities and competitive advantages for strategic planning over the next 10 years. This research helped develop the ‘Priority Indicator Framework' sequencing strategies into 10 priority levels. The framework specifies areas of improvements as opportunities and challenges that Saudi Arabia needs to prioritize over the next 10 years to potentially achieve successful delivery and long-lasting legacy for the event. Though not official, the 'Priority Indicator Framework' suggests that the earlier the interventions, the better the outcomes.15 0Item Restricted A Study of Revitalizing and Protecting Historical Sites in Al Ahsa for Tourism to Achieve Saudi Vision 2030(University of Sheffield, 2024-09) AlOmran, Abdulaziz; Williams, GlynThis study investigates the revitalization and preservation of historical sites in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, to promote heritage tourism and support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. It also highlights the vital role of local community engagement in preserving and revitalizing historical sites. The study focuses on three main areas: (1) how the social and economic benefits of these sites can stimulate local engagement; (2) factors that contribute to declining visitation rates; and (3) community attitudes, behaviours, and motivations toward heritage conservation. Using semi-structured interviews with heritage and tourism sector officials and opinion polls of Al Ahsa residents, the findings reveal a generational gap: younger residents show less interest in historical sites than older residents, who have deeper cultural and historical ties. The study suggests that enhancing economic opportunities associated with these sites could attract younger people to participate in their preservation, while older residents are more motivated by cultural pride. In addition, poor marketing, inadequate facilities, and limited services were identified as significant barriers to increasing visitor numbers. These insights underscore the need for comprehensive strategies that balance economic development with heritage preservation, enhance community engagement, and improve infrastructure to ensure sustainable tourism growth. The study findings contribute to understanding how Al Ahsa’s historical sites can be leveraged to enhance local identity, pride, and economic growth, which aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030.29 0Item Restricted The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Employee Performance: A Field Study in the Ministry of Sports in Saudi Arabia(University of Baltimore, 2024-12) Alanazi, Fahad; Naylor, Lorenda; Henderson, Lenneal; Michael, EleftheriosThis research evaluates the impact of transformational leadership on the performance of employees in the Ministry of Sports in Saudi Arabia. The main research question explores transformational leadership and its impact on employee performance in the Saudi Ministry of Sports. Three main components are assessed: 1) the impact of charismatic leadership practices, 2) the relationship between inspiring motivation and employee performance, and 3) the role of individual consideration in employee job performance. Overall, the research asks, "How does Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Sports practice transformational leadership, and how does it influence employee performance?" A quantitative approach is utilized, as it provides a practical approach to achieving the objectives of the study. The researcher conducted an online survey for each of the selected study participants. The data collected from the study was subjected to a T-test to assess complex differences between the responses given by the study participants and ANOVA analysis of variance to test the study hypotheses. The aim of the research is to fill a management gap and provide beneficial information to decision-makers on the best leadership style to adopt for maximum productivity. In addition, this study is a scholarly resource for people interested in studying transformational leadership in Saudi Arabia.50 0Item Restricted An Alternative Land Transport Strategy for Achieving Saudi Vision 2030's Direct and Indirect Goals(Swansea University, 2024-09-25) Alarifi, Abdulrahman; Samaras, VasileiosThis dissertation presents a comprehensive analysis and alternative strategy for developing Saudi Arabia’s land transport sector, aligning with the broader goals of Vision 2030. The research aims to address key challenges in the sector, explore global best practices, and propose strategies to enhance Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness as a global logistics hub. The study begins by contextualising the historical and strategic importance of Saudi Arabia's land transport infrastructure, emphasising its role in economic diversification and global connectivity. Informed by a literature review, the research identifies critical programmes under Vision 2030, such as the National Industrial Development and Logistics Programme (NIDLP), which focuses on modernising infrastructure and integrating advanced technologies to foster sustainable growth. The methodological approach leverages several analytical tools—Porter's Five Forces, PESTEL analysis, SWOT, and the TOWS matrix—to assess both external and internal factors affecting the land transport sector. This multi-faceted analysis leads to the identification of 24 strategic objectives, which are prioritised using a Decision Matrix to align with Vision 2030's direct and indirect goals. These objectives are categorised into themes such as technological innovation and modernisation, sustainability and environmental challenges, and public-private partnerships. The discussion highlights key findings, such as the importance of integrating advanced technologies, fostering public-private partnerships, and improving multimodal transport solutions. The adoption of digital platforms, the use of innovative safety measures, and the implementation of sustainable practices are highlighted as critical factors in ensuring the sector's long-term growth and resilience. Furthermore, the dissertation identifies challenges such as regulatory barriers, high costs, and the need for continuous technological upgrades. In conclusion, the research underscores the strategic importance of the land transport sector in achieving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The recommended strategies, including increased investments in infrastructure, enhanced governance frameworks, and the adoption of global best practices, are essential for transforming Saudi Arabia into a global logistics hub. The findings and recommendations provide a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to implement a well-aligned, future-ready transport system, driving economic diversification and sustainability.14 0