Working Paper
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-33
Title:
Exploring Immersive Learning Experiences
Abstract:
Research shows that immersive technologies substantially improve learning since they simplify and simulate advanced concepts in several fields. Yet, there is a shortage of studies that evaluate the recent evidence-based immersive learning experiences utilized in classrooms or the public arena. This study aligns with two key UAE priorities: education for the future, and innovation and R&D. This research is of interest to the ministry of education. Immersive technologies in education remain limited due to various challenges such as cost and complexity. However, the evidence for effectiveness seems promising. As such, this study could be a reference for researchers and educators worldwide and in the UAE to develop effective and usable immersive learning experiences.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-32
Title:
Investigating the effect of financing technology startups in the UAE: An explorative study
Abstract:
Technology entrepreneurship and innovation are important pillars for the UAE Vision 2021. In promoting innovation, the UAE government has accelerated the creation of new technology innovative start-up companies. Various incentives have been implemented, such as the establishment of free zone companies and high-tech startup accelerators and incubators. One of the most important strategic goals of the UAE vision 2021 is to successfully build an innovation-driven economy as part of its measure to diversify its current economy away from the oil sector.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-31
Title:
A Deep Learning based Dual Encoder-Decoder Framework for Anatomical Structure Segmentation in Chest Fluoroscopic Images
Abstract:
In this study, we presented a deep learning-based framework that can effectively identify anatomical structures, which include the lungs, heart, and clavicles, in chest x-ray images. A dual encoder-decoder network is notably employed, which can iteratively refine the output of the first network by fusing it with the input image and passing it through the second network to identify the anatomical structures in the x-ray images. Furthermore, the first encoder-decoder incorporates the use of a pre-trained VGG19 network, which allows the proposed framework to be efficiently trained using limited datasets. In addition, it also allows the proposed model to extract essential features to enhance the anatomical structure segmentation. In the second encoder-decoder, we integrated the input image with a segmentation mask to guide the network and focus on the essential features and avoid the outliers, which permit the proposed network to effectively segment the anatomical structures.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-30
Title:
Culture and Heritage: Theoretical Dilemmas
Abstract:
One of the challenges a young country like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) faces is that preserving heritage and culture is complex with rapid modernization, globalization, and the dilution of its indigenous population. Though culture and heritage are closely related and often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing, and very few papers explore the boundary conditions for each. While several tools exist to measure culture, few (or none) exist to measure heritage. UNESCO (2019) highlights that culture is acknowledged as the cornerstone of identity, providing a sense of belonging and communities' social and economic cohesion. The UN's Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11, Target 11.4) aims to "strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world's cultural and natural heritage." This research aims to identify the difference between culture and heritage from a theoretical framework and identify the perception of the Emiratis of these terms.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-29
Title:
Does Change Incite Abusive Supervision? The Role of Transformational Change and Hindrance Stress.
Abstract:
In today's competitive work environment, organizations must continually adjust their ways of working to survive, which is often referred to as transformational change. Unfortunately, transformational changes have often failed to be successful. Although organizations often expect their supervisors to be successful role-models and change-agents during the transformational change process, in our paper, we argue that transformational change often fails because organizations do not pay sufficient attention to supervisors' reactions to this change process. More specifically, transformational change could increase supervisors' stress levels, which may result in undesirable and abusive behaviors towards employees.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-28
Title:
Toward culturally responsive E-learning in post-COVID-19 higher education: Perspectives from the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
In the Gulf states, cultural, religious, and sociolinguistic dynamics can present challenges for teaching and learning online. Such challenges became especially apparent during the Covid-19 pandemic period of emergency remote teaching and learning (ERT&L). The purpose of this study is to gain the perspectives of Emirati university students on E-learning experiences with the aim of tailoring online and blended learning to the specific context through a focus on culturally and linguistically responsive educational policies and pedagogy.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-27
Title:
Internal crisis communication practices and frontline employees job performance during COVID-19 Pandemic: the mediating effect of internal crisis communication satisfaction
Abstract:
Drawing upon situational crisis communication theory and organizational renewal theory, the study examines the influence of internal crisis communication practices on internal crisis communication satisfaction and job performance of frontline employees. Also, the mediating effects of internal crisis communication satisfaction is also discussed.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-26
Title:
Stockpiling Soft Power: Consolidating Leadership Beyond Country's Borders
Abstract:
Soft power has been growing in significance with respect to UAE's foreign policy. This became evident with the launch of the first strategy cycle 2017-2022 ((The UAE Soft Power Strategy - The Official Portal of the UAE Government, 2017). As the cycle is coming to close, it is quite important to reflect on what has been achieved and to envision how to move forward, in line with the UAE's 2071 centennial vision.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-25
Title:
Examining the Asymmetric Impact of Macroeconomic Policy in the UAE: Evidence from Quartile Impulse Responses and Machine Learning
Abstract:
This paper examines the asymmetric effects of changes to monetary and fiscal variables on different types of firms in the UAE. By computing impulse responses on selected shock and switching variables, we examine 180 firms listed in the UAE exchanges and find significant asymmetries among financial and non-financial firms and among low and high-debt firms when there is a shock to macroeconomic monetary or fiscal variables. Quartile analysis shows that firms belonging to the first and last quartile of debt respond negatively to expansionary policies, while middle-quartile firms respond more positively.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-24
Title:
Happiness and Stock Markets in the UAE
Abstract:
Public happiness sentiment is important to all countries around the world. Global leaders and organizations are increasingly talking about using happiness as an alternative measure of countries'' success. Under the pillar of Cohesive Society and Preserved Identity of National Agenda, UAE aims to be amongst the happiest of all nations. Despite of all these developments, to our knowledge, there are no studies looking at the links between happiness and financial variables, using UAE data. This study is the first one to analyze happiness sentiment and its effects on the UAE markets. Although some previous studies have examined the link between happiness and different financial variables, it is still not clear how investor happiness sentiment affects stock returns in the UAE, first and only country with a Ministry of Happiness. This study aims to fill this gap and investigate the association between daily investor happiness sentiment and stock returns of the firms trading in the UAE Stock Exchanges.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-23
Title:
Modeling Surplus Food Partnerships Using Game Theory: When Does Food Become Surplus?
Abstract:
Large-scale and industrial production and distribution of food results in a significant portion of it going to waste. Not only does this amount to a significant waste of resources, but it also negatively impacts the environment through waste sent to landfills and greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere. This comes at odds with the fact that a significant portion of the population does not have reliable access to daily nutritional sustenance. This work aims to reduce this waste through rescuing and redistribution of food surplus through business partnerships between food supply chain nodes (producers, distributors, and retailers) and charitable organizations (governmental and non-governmental). Food surplus can occur when a food product is not suitable for normal sale channels but is still perfectly useful for human consumption. We target with this study some of the UAE's priority areas such as corporate social responsibility, public private partnership (PPP), and sustainability.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-22
Title:
The "Privacy Paradox" in the UAE Insights and Future Research Directions
Abstract:
The emergence, rapid development and wide adoption of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has exponentially increased the amount of personally identifiable information (PII) being collected by commercial and government entities. Although research demonstrates that information privacy is a major concern for citizens in the digital age, scholars have also drawn attention to the 'privacy paradox', a phenomenon that describes the contradiction between individuals' privacy attitudes and their actual behaviour. The information privacy paradox has significant implications for e-commerce, online social networking and government privacy regulations. The presence of the privacy paradox encourages e-commerce and online social networking sites to collect vast amounts of personal information. At the same time, it serves as a call for action for legislators and policymakers to address the problem of excessive collection of information by the aforementioned entities. While the information privacy paradox phenomenon has received an abundance of attention among the academic community, research in this area is scarce in some cultural contexts, including within the UAE. The objective of this research, therefore, is to examine privacy attitudes and privacy behaviour in the UAE by assessing the efficacy of current data protection measures.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-21
Title:
An Ethnography of Measurement Innovation by Numbers, Metrics and Indices in the Arab Gulf
Abstract:
This project is about innovation and its measurement. The goal of this study is to first examine the logics of innovation metrics and how these fit into GCC policies and the region’s future-focused developmental models. The most prominent and widely used instrument for measuring innovation currently - both internationally and regionally in the GCC - is the Global Innovation Index (GII), a composite index. This research takes a critical look at innovation indices like the GII to see if they can actually serve as reliable benchmarks for development policy in the GCC. This means departing from conventions that take these indices at face value in order to examine the underlying theoretical assumptions, weightings and calibrations of these instruments.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-20
Title:
Consolidating Emirati women's economic agency: Heritage and succession
Abstract:
Purpose and importance of study for the UAE This research was undertaken to respond to the fact that Emirati women's economic participation remains limited despite decades of supportive state policy. The low uptake of economic opportunities by women, especially of women with children, has serious implications for the success of the localisation policy and the overall stability of the future UAE labour force. Method Narrative methodology was used, and this gathers data from informal interviews. The unstructured nature of these interviews allows the participant to collaborate in her own way and tell the story she chooses. This permits personalised interpretations of broad societal narratives from which emerge new insights into changing social structurations and their implications for women.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-19
Title:
Endowments and Human Well-being: Investigating the Resource Curse in the UAE
Abstract:
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) became a federal country inside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 1971. The country is richly endowed with natural resources. Since its discovery in the early 1960s, oil has instigated the country's exports and foreign currency, as well as being the primary driver of government revenues. However, the UAE's success in leveraging its natural resources for economic development and enhanced well-being does not rule out the possibility that any of the resource curse's symptoms exist. It is widely held that natural resources do not stymie development on their own; however, they may cause some disparities that act as transmission channels to impede economic advancement. This study determines whether there is an indication of a resource curse for well-being in the UAE by considering both the direct and indirect effects of natural resources on human well-being. We mainly aim to answer two fundamental questions: How did natural resource endowments contribute to human well-being in the UAE between 1990 and 2019? And how did institutional quality, human capital, and environmental efficiency influence the impact of natural resource endowments on human well-being in the UAE? In doing so, we employed various time series econometric techniques, including the ARDL bounds testing method and the VECM Granger causality approach, among others.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-18
Title:
Towards an Understanding of Multi-stakeholder Relationships in Technology Enabled Entrepreneurial Ventures in the UAE
Abstract:
Given the prevalence of business scandals we hear on regular basis, it is natural for people to attribute them to carry unethical, selfish, and narrowly defined profit-driven constructs. Several stakeholder theorists have argued that there is an alternative way to look at businesses in our society. According to them, it is in the businesses' interest to align their functioning with a myriad of stakeholders. In the North American or Western cultures, many technology driven entrepreneurial ventures have difficulty aligning their interests with multiple stakeholders. However, for a holistic understanding of the discipline, similar inquiries are required in the context of the Middle Eastern cultures, such as in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In this study we attempt to fill this research gap. We borrow concepts from the stakeholder theory and apply the repertory grid technique (personal construct theory) to advance our understanding about the relationships between tech-industry stakeholders, belonging to the Middle Eastern cultural background. It is expected that tech-venture owners focus on managing their relationships and commitments with value adding, as well as competing stakeholder groups to succeed. However, the true essence of 'value creation' is not properly captured and defined in the context of different cultures. We contend that these definitions will differ largely due to diverse cultural backgrounds, which may have an impact on the success of these ventures. Therefore, we use the repertory grid technique, which is a structured interviewing method that allows researchers to elicit 'personal constructions' from the target population. The repertory grid allows us to develop a path between the elements and the study's objective through various personal constructs or attributes to all intents and purposes. These constructs are generally described as ideas expressing perceptions of the participants for making sense of elements, either introduced by the researcher or provided by the study participants (Hardison & Neimeyer, 2012). This interviewing technique was developed by George Kelly (1955) to investigate people''''s cognitive constructions without influencing their references (Diaz De Leon & Guild, 2003; Shah & Guild, 2017). It is relevant to investigate our proposition that technology start-up venture founders have idiosyncratic mental models and abilities to make business decisions that influence the sustainability and success of their ventures in the long-term.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-17
Title:
A Comparative Assessment of Human Factors in Cybersecurity with Implications for Cyber - governance
Abstract:
Cybersecurity and cyber vulnerabilities are usually attributed to various physical and humanistic, or social factors. Many global institutional policymakers and governments prefer building more robust physical infrastructures to counter them. This phenomenon is also recognized as an outdated "Castle Model," according to which thick defense boundaries (or walls) are built around the system to protect against security breaches. The Castle Model helps protect; however, due to cultural diversity, complex socio-technical systems, and cybersecurity awareness levels among global populations, it is challenging for governments and concerning stakeholders to eradicate these cyber risks. Therefore, a detailed evidence-based investigation of human factors and cyber risk awareness levels is required to build a holistic cybersecurity framework. According to a general observation, global Internet users possess divergent habits and behaviours while operating online. To support this point, according to the Cybersecurity Exposure Index (CEI, 2020) , the United States of America (USA) has one of the lowest exposure rates of 0.145, whereby the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a comparatively higher exposure index of 0.359. Consequently, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region seems more exposed to cyberattacks than the United States of America (USA). These facts illustrate that there are significant differences in the cybersecurity risk awareness of various countries. We suspect that global cybersecurity exposure scores result from behavioural aspects of human factors that influence cybersecurity awareness. For instance, the diversity between cultures, socioeconomic characteristics, digital divide, education, and beliefs of people living in the GCC countries versus the USA directly influences these rankings. Therefore, we plan to pursue an evidence-based safety and cybersecurity assessment study that provides a clear roadmap for better cyber-governance in the UAE.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-16
Title:
Mathematical Modeling of Energy Management in Green Roofs
Abstract:
The transition from rural living to urbanization is a fact. It is predicted that two-thirds of the global population will be in urban areas by 2050. In Dubai, the urban and built area has increased by a factor 170 between 1960 and 2020, while its population has increased by a factor 80 in the same period. However, increasing levels of urbanization lead to problems such as poor air and water quality, growing demands on water availability, high energy consumption and a deterioration of the natural environment. Urban areas are also known to be significantly warmer than their outlying areas, which is known as the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon has several causes, which include, for instance, the large presence of paved structures and high emissions of pollutants.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-15
Title:
A Novel Image - Based Diagnostic System for Accurate Diagnosis of Autism
Abstract:
This project aims to develop a clinically usable software tool for the accurate diagnosis of autism and to create a brain "map" showing the anatomical differences between the brains of autistic patients and controls through the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). These new machine learning tools developed will improve the delivery of healthcare in the UAE and worldwide by providing a new early diagnostic tool for accurate and early diagnosis of autism. For that, the same methodology will be adapted for the dataset collected from hospitals and families with children facing autism in UAE. Our technology will reduce the diagnostic costs of autism as demonstrated in our application, benefiting patients, payers, and health insurance organizations. Thus, if the technology is successful, it is expected to have a significant market capitalization benefiting the commonwealth of UAE through jobs from either startup companies that will be established by emirates students/faculty or venture capital companies that will license our technology. Furthermore, this problem is of great interest to the UAE health authority, the knowledge and expertise gained from this project will be a step towards the achievement of the knowledge-based economy as outlined by the UAE 2030 plan by developing a highly skilled and professional workforce. The publications which will result from this project and the know-how are part of Zayed University’s research mission in the strategic area of computer and Artificial Intelligence Technology.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-14
Title:
Tensions in Relationship Management: Organization - Employee Relational Maintenance Strategies in Flexible Work
Abstract:
The COVID - 19 pandemic compelled organizations to adopt various operating models such as remote and flexible work to keep business operations from grinding to a complete halt. While flexible modes of work ensure business continuity, it can trigger various tensions and contradictions that employees and organizations need to navigate. Our study aims to interrogate existing relational maintenance strategies and examine the strategies organizations employ to deal with these tensions. Findings can inform policy on human resource management in the United Arab Emirates, particularly with a focus on employee well-being in contexts of remote/flexible work. This is of high significance to the UAE considering that the country has been creating infrastructures that support virtual/remote work and aims to make the UAE one of the happiest places to live and work in.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-13
Title:
Intelligent Health Care System
Abstract:
The aim of this project is to develop an intelligent health care system for disease control and management at the country level in UAE. Using machine learning and data mining, our proposed system will serve as a vulnerability assessment index for better disease treatment and control
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-12
Title:
Mapping Visual Cultures of the United Arab Emirates: Past, Present and Future Visions
Abstract:
This study explores Dubai's visual cultures and visible economies via the comparative case of two Dubai-based social media influencers (microcelebrities), @Stacey (pseudonym) from the United Kingdom (UK) and @Al.maiiith from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This helps to reveal the diverse visual practices of the emirate that are being mapped by social media influencers' past, present and future visions of the cityscape. The central question asks, how do images of Dubai circulate in the global, visual economy, why and with what effects? This study's focus on Dubai culture(s), at the nexus of visuality, is important to develop critical insights into how social media influencers not only draw on the contemporary visibilities of the Dubai cityscape but also utilise the historical and future orientated visual practices constituting the UAE.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-11
Title:
The UAE Employees' Perceptions Towards Factors for Sustaining Big Data Implementation and Continuous Impact on their Organization's Performance
Abstract:
UAE has officially launched the Big Data Initiative in the year 2022 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Even though it is recently officiated, the Big Data technologies have been adopted and implemented in a large scale by organizations from both public and private sectors. One of essential component to ensure the success of the new technologies is the employees and their perceptions towards the implementation of the Big Data and its sustainability. The purpose of the study is to investigate the perceptions of employees in UAE on the factors that contribute towards sustaining the implementation of Big Data initiatives.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-10
Title:
Customer Churn Prediction using Deep Learning Technique
Abstract:
Customers are the backbone of any business. That's why every company wants to achieve the highest level of their customers' satisfaction. Customer churn is the period in which a company suffers a heavy loss due to the discontinuation of regular customers. If any company (e.g., Etisalat or Du) wants to satisfy their current customers, they must know why their customers are leaving. Several factors force a customer to move on to another company, like cost and/or quality of service. A huge number of customers leave the company when they feel that a particular product or service is not up to the mark, or they feel that the company does not provide security. Therefore, due to trust and/or satisfaction issues, customers might leave the company and move to another. Due to customer churn, companies must face massive profit loss, or even worse, they may have to cease their business. Companies spend a lot on attracting new customers which makes it even more crucial to retain the existing customers.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-09
Title:
The quest for economic diversification: A study of the connectedness of oil shocks, green bonds, sukuks and conventional bonds
Abstract:
A well-functioning economy is imperative for a healthy society. However, changes in oil prices affect the economy and financial markets through a complex dynamic process. The impact of oil price shocks is even more pronounced on economies with oil as a major source of revenue. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one such country and its leadership, cognizant of the importance of economic diversification, has put in place both long-term and short-term plans for exploring alternative sources of financing and revenue for economic development and growth. Sovereign bond is one of the main sources of long-term financing for any economy and in recent years we have seen new additions to the traditional sovereign bond universe. In particular, the transition toward ethical financing alternatives have led to the development of a parallel market with a focus on sustainable financing solutions.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-08
Title:
A Critical Review of Crypto Innovation in the UAE
Abstract:
Distributed ledger technology is highlighted as a solid tool to address social and ecological challenges. Cryptocurrency is seen as a network with a socio-technical structure since the systems are composed of technical infrastructure and the social relations between users of the crypto ecosystem. The sociopolitical ramifications of cryptocurrency are critically assessed to identify key features and conceptualize issues to unlock opportunities to guarantee a sociotechnical approach to blockchains. Despite progressive initiatives, a series of challenges, such as trust, cybersecurity, and scalability, have emerged as cryptocurrency begins to develop its full potential. With these issues, sociotechnical concerns have surfaced regarding how to respond to the possible consequences that such a policy choice would entail, how to govern the crypto economy, and how to create a sustainable crypto ecosystem. We argue that cryptocurrency is a socio-technical system that constitutes new and important objects of social inquiry that must be addressed beyond the myopic context of a financial asset. Crypto technology promises to transform every sector and industry, and the design of cryptocurrency has focused on technical performance or isolated platforms whose stakeholders contribute mechanically by operating algorithmically automated transactions. We propose the significance of sociotechnical dimensions within a broader ecosystem that encompasses a wide range of technical and non-technical conditions. A cryptosystem should be designed by the people, for the people, and of the people, such that it develops in a user-oriented and socially sustainable way to contribute to a more visible and more trusted development, which leads to a significant, positive impact on a clear responsibility.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-07
Title:
A Model of Leadership from the UAE to the World
Abstract:
In December 2021, the UAE celebrated the jubilee anniversary of the union. In comparison to many global states, this country has witnessed tremendous changes over the five decades. Most notably the ambitious vision and pace of development has earned the UAE global repute. There has not been much research about the leadership style evident among Emirati leaders in both public and private sector in the UAE that facilitated this tremendous rate of national development in this global environment of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. There are not many of the leadership theories that have been successfully investigated to explain the Emirati model of leadership (Abdallah and Al-Homoud, 2001). This study draws on integral leadership theory to undertake a holistic assessment of leadership development, leadership practices and cultural values among Emirati leaders in the UAE to determine what is the salient model that has contributed to the success of the country. In addition, the study examines the challenges of leadership development in the UAE and determine the mitigation strategies to ensure continuity of the high-performance leadership strategies.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-06
Title:
Factors affecting academic entrepreneurial intentions and attitudes among Emirati students
Abstract:
Recent global events have put increasing pressure on world markets, especially with regards to global oil prices, a cause of concern most notably for Middle Eastern countries. To counter the growing concern over the dependence on oil, several nations are seeking to develop their private sectors (Antoncic, 2006; Evren, 2018; Turkama, 2019) using Entrepreneurial endeavors to diversify their economies. However, in the UAE context one of the impediments to achieving a diversification strategy is the lack of Emirati participation in the private sector (Antwi-Boateng & Al Jaberi, 2022) warranting a comprehensive study of Emirati intention and attitudes toward Entrepreneurship that could lead to more Emirati participation in new business creation.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-05
Title:
Quality of Life of Emirati Women with Breast Cancer
Abstract:
Female breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of death among women and one of the leading cancer types worldwide in terms of the number of new cases since 2018. Many efforts have been made over the last decade not only to understand, prevent, diagnose, and treat BC but also to improve the quality of life (QoL) of BC survivors. There is a large amount of research on the QoL of women with BC in Western societies, however, research in the Arab world is very limited. The few existing studies in the UAE showed that women in the UAE (Emirati and non-Emirati) have little to poor knowledge about BC. This low level of knowledge is coupled with social, cultural and religious restrictions, resulting in low uptake of BC screening services.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-04
Title:
Risk, Entrepreneurial Education, and Attitude among the Emirati Youth: A Structural Equation Modeling Estimation
Abstract:
Entrepreneurship is a detriment to the success and social development of many countries. It creates jobs and aids economic growth. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) especially relies heavily on entrepreneurship. Statistics show that small to medium scaled businesses contribute 40% of the total value added to Dubai''s economy (Oxford Business Group, 2018). The UAE also ranked 4th in the global entrepreneurial index. One of the goals of the governments is to increase this ranking to be one of the top 3 countries (United Arab Emirates Ministry of Economy, 2021). This requires an in-depth understanding of entrepreneurship behaviour among the young Emiratis. In order to effectively promote entrepreneurship within the region, it is important to understand what the current beliefs about entrepreneurship are. To do so, we need to research the variables that are most important for improving entrepreneurship intentions about the Emirati youth. Finding a positive or negative correlation among the variables like risk aversion, entrepreneurial education, self-efficacy and so on will help guide the correct path to take in order to promote entrepreneurship intentions.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-03
Title:
Determinants of entrepreneurial risk among young Emiratis
Abstract:
Economies are considered complex systems therefore, the individual entrepreneurs embedded in those economic webs must cope with risky decisions when trying to maximize economic profit. The propensity or ability of entrepreneurs to take optimal decisions in situations under uncertainty has sometimes been considered a negative feature. However, entrepreneurs are not currently considered mindless decision takers, but optimal decision-makers when situations are inherently uncertain. They are expected to efficiently manage uncertainty in economic markets to make a profit from it. They make calculated risky decisions to take advantage of uncertain situations to build economic wealth.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-02
Title:
Entrepreneurial Fear-of-Failure among the Emirati Youth: An Ordered logistic Regression Estimation
Abstract:
The National Agenda of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) aims for the country to be among the best in the world in entrepreneurship as it plays a key role in unlocking the potential of nationals and enables them to be a driving force of the UAE's economic development through small and medium enterprises in the private sector. Furthermore, the National Agenda strives to instill an entrepreneurial culture in schools and universities to foster generations endowed with leadership, creativity, responsibility, and ambition. Thus, entrepreneurship is now regarded as a principal element to be integrated in the curriculum offered by higher education institutions in the UAE, making it an ideal context for studying Entrepreneurial attitudes. For this purpose, higher education institutions should commit to helping students achieve their full potential through personal and entrepreneurial development as well as opening new opportunities for future growth through multi-disciplined lenses.
Number:
ZU-WP 2022-01
Title:
Learning a Bayesian structure to model entrepreneurial intentions and attitudes towards business creation among Emirati Youth
Abstract:
The vision of the UAE National Youth Agenda is to equip the young Emiratis with the necessary resources to be “Productive youth with an entrepreneurial spirit who realize their full potential and embody Emirati valuesâ€. Furthermore, the Federal as well as the local strategies strive to infuse an entrepreneurial culture in schools and universities to foster generations endowed with leadership, creativity, responsibility, and ambition. This will allow the UAE to be among the best in the world in the ease of doing business, innovation, entrepreneurship, and R&D indicators. For these above-mentioned reasons, entrepreneurship is now considered as an essential element to be incorporated in the curriculum offered by higher education institutions in the UAE. Intentions and attitudes toward entrepreneurship have become crucial factors that explain entrepreneurial behavior in recent entrepreneurship research.
Number:
ZU-WP 2021-01
Title:
Determinants of Early Retirement in the UAE
Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the retirement behavior of UAE nationals by understanding the socio-economic characteristics of early retirees and identifying the main determinants of early retirement. Accordingly, a survey study is created and deployed for current employees and retirees affiliated with Abu Dhabi Retirement and Pension Benefit Fund (ADRPBF). The survey was designed to reach 100 retirees and 200 currently active workers from those registered at the ADRPBF. The survey was conducted by employing the online survey method and face-to-face interviews. The total number of respondents is around 244, with a total response rate of 81.33%. Some factors related to the psychosocial work environment play a significant role in the early retirement decision of Emiratis. These factors are stress level, autonomy level and authority level at work. In addition to these, the level of work environment comfortability and life-work balance seem to also affect the early retirement decision. In general, the results indicate that higher the stress level, lower the level of autonomy and authority; higher the early retirement decision within the Emirati workforce. Last but not least, the likelihood of early retirement increases significantly if employees face a work-related health problem. Initiatives at the government and company level to adjust the working conditions for the capacity of elderly people shall be considered. Healthy living campaigns and sport programs might be launched to reduce work-related health problems and consequently early retirement. Our work is the first comprehensive study exploring the early retirement decision of the UAE nationals. One limitation of our study is the limited number of participants in the survey. Future work that will include a higher number of participants and supplementary questions to cover more job features (physical workload, other psychosocial factors) might be helpful.
Number:
ZU-WP 2020-03
Title:
Temporary Labour - Migration System and Long - term Residence Strategies in the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
The United Arab Emirates' migration system, the sponsorship–based kafala system, is defined as a temporary labour–migration regime. Although there are policies making permanent residence unattainable for virtually all migrants, it is still relevant to explore the temporality of migrations in the UAE. The purpose of this study is to investigate developments in migration, migration policies and population trends in the country, including trends that concern the duration of migrants' stay. We also identify some of the major strategies used by migrants to prolong their sojourn in the UAE. It is maintained that the migrant stock has increased continuously in the last decades and that many migrants devise strategies to continue their residence and remain in the country for years. The authors also identify and discuss migrants' transition within and in-between regularity and irregularity and analyze the reasons for utilizing different strategies over time.
Number:
ZU-WP 2020-02
Title:
Soft Power - The Role Of The Private Sector In The Context Of Refugees And Humanitarian Aid
Abstract:
Soft power is associated with humanitarian diplomacy and private sector brands but there are few studies that look at the relationship between the three factors. This is one of the first few studies that focuses on the role of brands (private and NGO) on country soft power and influence. The study was conducted in a Syrian refugee camp in Jordan and involved both a visual methodology and a quantitative study. The results confirm that brands do impact soft power and its influence via the brand bonds. The ability to adapt in an agile manner to the refugee perception of the country via the brands in that context may play a key role in managing the tensions that arise in a refugee camp situation. The Middle East North Africa is one of the most crisis prone regions in the world and hosts 23% of global refugees, displaced and stateless people as of 2019. An important finding is that all brand bonds do not impact soft power the same way but it depends on individual's preference bias to the country. The results have policy implications for those in countries working with ODA, NGOs working in the humanitarian sector, and CSR practitioners.
Number:
ZU-WP 2019-03
Title:
Attitudes and Perceptions Towards Summative E-Assessment for Free-Text Responses: A Case Study of a UAE University
Abstract:
The key aim of this study is to provide an overview of students' and instructors' attitudes and perceptions towards the potential benefits and challenges of summative e-assessment for their writing courses at a UAE university. A mixed method of quantitative and qualitative analysis is used. The findings of the study revealed that a majority of student participants reported reasonable satisfaction with the e-assessment tool in terms of screen layout and background, interface design and ease of use and access. However, they indicated their preference to “pen and paper†exams. Instructor participants identified a number of challenges associated with using summative e-assessment in the writing courses, which would require educational institutions to make changes to promote the success of e-assessment.
Number:
ZU-WP 2019-02
Title:
The Impact of MNC Brands on Country Soft Power: A Refugee Context
Abstract:
Soft power is a diplomatic strategy used by nations. Though firms are contributors to soft power, little research exists at this level. The growing importance of humanitarian diplomacy, public-private partnerships (UN Sustainable Development Goal 17), and the increasing influence and intertwined relationships of multi-national organizations (MNCs) with host and home nation governments, highlights why more research in this area is needed. This exploratory paper’s objective is to see if and how soft power can accrue through MNC brands - a so-called reverse or inverse country-of-origin (COO). The background of this study is that of refugees. Refugees highlight the intense political context of global governance with the potential of impacting trade, offshoring, and mobility of talent. This study looks at the refugee perception of ‘non-home’ countries through the brands they interact within refugee camps. It has policy implications for MNCs working in global governance, policy officials working in diplomacy, and third sector organizations working with the private sector. There are future opportunities for research and teaching in this field.
Number:
ZU-WP 2019-01
Title:
Structural Constraints, Coping Strategies in An Authoritarian State of Qatar
Abstract:
This paper examines how and why sending states manage and govern absconding migrant populations in the host country. Applying the unique survey and qualitative interviews in Qatar, we identified the following conclusions. First, despite the structural legal, institutional, and political constraints, the Philippine state has continuously developed both formal and informal strategic coping strategies and mechanism to rebalance the embedded power asymmetry in the host country. Second, while the high volume of absconding domestic cases has imposed institutional and budgetary constraints on the Philippine bureaucracy, the state, however, regained and secured legitimacy and control over its migrant diaspora populations, while exerting its ‘capacity to rule’ within the sector by implementing administrative regulations beyond the official mandate to curb labor malpractices. The state has also utilized both social and diplomatic relations and mechanisms to strengthen its access, power, and legitimate control, given the embedded legal constraints in the host country. Third and most importantly, absconding is not only a costly governance issue, but also produces a “lose-lose-lose†outcome for all stakeholders (i.e. receiving/sending states, employers, brokers, and migrants and their familiesâ€). Thus, the sending and receiving states have the same policy incentives: to limit the rate of absconding due to direct and indirect cost.
Number:
ZU-WP 2018-07
Title:
The â€Khadama Dependency Syndromeâ€: Determinants and prospects for the future of domestic work demand in the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
This paper examines the future roles and determinants of foreign domestic workers living in United Arab Emirates (UAE) society as well as the implications of their work on local Emirati families. Using in-depth interviews with 30 local employers in the UAE, we argue that the structural dependency on domestic workers (henceforward referred to as “khadama dependency syndromeâ€) will not only intensify due to complex micro- and macro-level factors, but also transform into a long-term dependency, given the changing demographic and family structures in the context of rapid globalization. This empirical study situates the perceptions of local UAE families on the determinants of foreign domestic work, and their complex and multiple effects on UAE society, culture, and economy. The study also conceptually examines the globalizing effects of long-term structural dependency on foreign domestic workers.
Number:
ZU-WP 2018-06
Title:
UAE Labor Market: Development, Structure, and Characteristics
Abstract:
Like other Gulf states, the UAE relied heavily on hydrocarbon revenues and imported labor during most of its state formation. Enormous labor-intensive projects in construction and infrastructure, in addition to various attempts to reduce the country’s dependence on oil revenues, have required massive amounts of foreign manpower, mostly low-skilled, while development of the financial, business, health, and educational sectors, among others, has also attracted skilled and specialized expatriate professionals into the country. The UAE was able, in a relatively short period of time, to become one of the world’s richest and fastest-growing countries. While oil revenues were critical in the country’s development, UAE decision makers have since aimed to diversify the economy and its production base away from oil. In recent years, the pace has accelerated towards liberalizing the economy through various plans, primarily the long-term 2021 Vision, to create a highly competitive and sustainable knowledge-based economy that will depend a great deal on real human capital development and a greater private sector role in development. However, many issues related to the composition of labor force skills levels need to be addressed, especially in the private sector, which will influence the speed of the success of the desired economic transformations.
Number:
ZU-WP 2018-05
Title:
Migration as Soft Power: Exploring India-UAE Relations in the GCC
Abstract:
This paper examines how and why the Indian state utilizes migration as soft power in foreign policy while simultaneously asserting its sovereign legitimacy and influence abroad. Using the India-UAE relation as a case study, we explore the Indian state’s national interests, constraints, and challenges, as well as the implications of soft power on the Indian state legitimacy both in the short and long run. The study is particularly relevant because it offers empirical and conceptual insights on the political and economic dynamics of migration and foreign policy behaviors of emigration states like India, and how they have increasingly employed soft power as a strategic tool to expand their regional economic interests and influence in broader Middle East region.
Number:
ZU-WP 2018-04
Title:
Does Irregular Migration Status Have Economic Benefits?
Abstract:
This paper examines the effects of government amnesty initiatives on the labor market conditions and choices of irregular migrant populations in the GCC countries. Drawing from the core survey (n=100) and in-depth field interviews with irregular Filipino migrant domestic workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), we examine how and why undocumented Filipino migrants in the UAE deliberately avoid amnesty initiatives. We found that undocumented workers refusal logic stems from the high economic penalties, perceived unemployment and low wages in the origin countries, and other economic factors (i.e. high debt, job insecurity). More importantly, the reportedly improved labor market conditions (wage, working conditions, mobility, etc.) associated with their irregular migration status in the informal economy—which is characterized by free mobility in the GCC labor markets—holds the greatest explanatory factor. On a theoretical level, we concluded that the opportunity cost of participating is more than the opportunity cost of not participating and staying undocumented in the long run. This paper contributes to the broader literature by situating the GCC countries’ critical relevance in understanding global amnesty reforms, while simultaneously offering diverse policy and institutional perspectives in managing foreign migrant population in the long run.
Number:
ZU_WP 2018-03
Title:
Best Practices in Environmental Governance
Abstract:
The present paper examines the environmental governance that includes both official policies as well as the involvement of the non-governmental organizations in spreading the awareness of environmental care and sustainability in four Nordic countries. The paper argues that there are lessons to be drawn from the best practices of the Nordic countries. The paper suggests that governance in the conventional sense of administering, planning and execution carried out by the government to promote public good, may be supplemented by another goal, namely, removal of "public bad or public ills" that are easy to identify, especially in regard to environmental pollution and global warming.
Number:
ZU-WP 2018-02
Title:
Leisure Activities Among Emirati Youth
Abstract:
This study explores the average leisure time and leisure activities among Emirati youth based on a survey conducted by the UAE Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority in 2017. The study focuses on three issues and their implications: 1) the average amount of time Emirati youth dedicate to leisure activities, 2) the types of leisure time activities Emirati youth prefer and 3) interest in club participation among Emirati youth. The main findings of this study revealed that volunteering is the least important leisure activity to Emirati youth; the majority of Emirati youth are not members of any clubs; Emirati youth do not invest much time in reading and practicing sports; Emirati youth spend considerable time in passive leisure activities and internet and social media take up the majority of their time.
Number:
ZU-WP 2018-06-20
Title:
Thermal sensation, perceptionand microclimatic data at a city with Mediterranean climate
Abstract:
This data article presents the data collected through an extensive research work that was conducted in urban areas across Athens in the period from 2010 to 2012. The study deals with the estimation of human thermal sensation conditions in a Mediterranean climate (Athens). The data concern 2313 interview questionnaire and microclimatic data that were collected through interviews with the visitors of the examined areas using parallel monitoring of the urban microclimatic characteristics. The field surveys carried out occasionally throughout the year covering, as much as, possible the different seasons of a city with Mediterranean climate.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-25
Title:
Developing Adaptive Islamic Law Business Processes Models for Islamic Finance and Banking by Text Mining the Holy Quran and Hadith.
Abstract:
Global Islamic finance assets grew from $200 billion to $1.8 trillion (IMF 2015) and is growing faster than the conventional banking sector. A large number of conventional financial institutions, especially banks are moving to an Islamic financial model that's comply with the Shari'a Law with little change to current conventional practices (reverse eningineer current business processes) to accommodate the new situation. In this study we will design and develop the business processes for the Islamic financial institutions' (IFIs) products by investigating and collecting information through Islamic literature, surveys and interviews of experts in Islamic jurisprudence, regulators, academic and Islamic finance and banking practitioners. Then we will assess and evaluate the findings by using a Qur'anic Financial Corpus and use computational and analytical approaches to mine the Qur'an (the Muslim Holy book) and the Hadith (actions and words of the prophet Muhammad peace be upon him) to uncover hidden knowledge on Islamic financial business processes. The knowledge acquired from this investigation will be translated into an Islamic financial process model to be adapted by Islamic and non-Islamic financial institutions. The outcome of this research will influence the future development, growth and diversification of Islamic Financial Services worldwide
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-24
Title:
A Preliminary Study of Research-Driven University Spin-off Companies in UAE
Abstract:
Entrepreneurship is the procedure of a new business development to make a profit in the market. In many countries, Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) in research-driven universities serve as an intermediary between suppliers of innovations and those who can potentially commercialize them. TTOs are always run as cost-centers on campus, often have business or operation managers, and facilitate intellectual property licensing activities. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), TTOs are taking an important role in the evolution of a successful spin-off company from innovation to production to sales to sustainable profit. An innovative technology may be a research outcome and seem to have value as an application or product with commercial potential in the market. In this context, TTOs often support spin-off companies becoming a learning organization and easing into an articulated management of activities complementary to the research and design activities that create the innovation and drive the transition from innovation to product lines. That is, even though such academic entrepreneurs have built and run entities that are similar to small businesses, and even though these entrepreneurs have learned how to secure and manage revenues to sustain cash flows for their companies, they still may not be sustainable in the market. The long term of this research study aims to investigate the current situation of research-driven university entrepreneurship in UAE. This paper presents a preliminary study of two TTOs: Etisalat BT Innovation Center (EBTIC) at Khalifa University and Masdar Institute.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-23
Title:
RFID adoption in healthcare organizations in UAE
Abstract:
Radio frequency identification (RFID) is currently regarded as one of the most promising technologies, and considered as one of the sixteen key technologies in the coming decade, specifically in terms of its use, pervasiveness, market demand and commercial availability. RFID is perceived as critical technology for many purposes and applications, such as improving the efficiency and effectiveness in business operations and improving customer service. This research therefore has a hedonic motivation in developing an incorporated view of theoretical framework to identify factors that affect RFID adoption in healthcare and providing an empirical analysis of the effect of both organizational and individual factors on the diffusion of RFID based on the health care industry. Unlike other studies, the current study places more attention on individual factors in addition to the organizational factors and technological factors in an attempt to better understand the phenomenon of RFID adoption in health care, which is described as a complex and a very demanding work environment. This study serves to fill a gap in the existing literature through explaining of how user factors can contribute to the adoption of RFID in healthcare and how such factors might lead to better understanding of the benefits, use and impacts of RFID in health care sector.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-22
Title:
Uncovering Educational Barriers to Female Leadership in the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
According to statistics, Emirati women comprise of 12% of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) workforce and account for only 7% of the country's legislators, senior officials, and managers (Abdalla, 2015). The underrepresentation of women is alarming considering that the education rate of women is quite high. Specifically, females outperform males in school and the ratio of women in third level education is 85% (Al Kassadi, 2000). In addition, one study found that 92% of the women in UAE considered themselves very ambitious and wanted to aspire to hold a top job (Hewlett & Rashi, 2010). Jamali and colleagues (2005) note that the higher rates of enrollment in schools and universities have not been "paralleled by equal access to work opportunities at higher levels of organizations or equal access to fair and equitable pay." Consequently, it is important to identify the relevant factors that influence the disconnect between women’s educational experiences and aspirations and women's representation in leadership positions.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-21
Title:
Happiness as a value of event organizers in Abu Dhabi
Abstract:
This study examines the perceived impact of events to happiness based on event organizers opinion. Specifically, the aim is to understand if event organizers consider promoting happiness and wellbeing as a value of their event, as well as what they consider as a successful event. A qualitative approach was used and finally seven events' organizers from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in United Arab Emirates were interviewed. With 6-open ended questions the following attributes of an event were analysed: major marketing tools used to promote an event, values that the event tries to promote with an emphasis on happiness and perception of benefits. Results indicate that happiness as a value of events is not something that comes to the organizers by a recall of values, but after reminding 'happiness' they all agreed that this is what they do promote with their event, as well. Thus, actions need to be considered to implement happiness as a 'first-on-mind' value of events organized in Abu Dhabi (UAE).
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-20
Title:
Becoming an Accounting Professional: An Investigation of the Skills Needed by Female Emirati Nationals
Abstract:
The aim in this research is to investigate the skills needed by female Emirati nationals in order to be successful as accounting professionals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in both the public and private sector. The research team first interviewed a number of senior female accountants working in the UAE, together with a period of time spent observing accountants in the workplace. They also conducted a survey of existing accounting teaching materials used in tertiary education across the country, and they interviewed several cohorts of female Zayed University (ZU) accounting majors during their period of internship to find out about their experiences in the workplace as neophyte accountants. The team then used this information to generate a set of guidelines for use in tertiary level accounting education at federal institutions in the UAE. The research recommends ways to increase levels of retention in the national labour force for senior female accountants, and in doing so, it contributes to the process of Emiratization.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-19
Title:
The effectiveness of Using Social media in Government communication in UAE
Abstract:
Social media have proven to be convenient tools that can be used by government entities to increase openness and publicity, gain a greater understanding of public opinions, promote participation, transparency and engagement, as well as to reach many users at low cost. - The purpose of this paper is to explore the effectiveness of using social media by the government entities in UAE. It is a network analysis study seeking mainly quantitative data. 100 UAE government accounts, belong to (25) entities, were examined using web-based analytical tools. - The general findings of the study indicate that the UAE government communication entities accounts convey a rich picture of how these entities interact with their stakeholders on their social media. Most of them are performing an active role in terms of publicity, reach, marketing and transparency. However, the level of maturity of using social media in general has not matured yet and they are not effective to somewhat in communicating with the stakeholders in terms of participation and engagement. Also, it is indicated that there is a significant difference between the effectiveness of these entities in terms of reach, transparency and participation. In general, they do not utilize the full types, capacity and features of social media in their government communication. They are mainly depending on Tweeter and Facebook
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-18
Title:
Emirati Identity as an antecedent of fairness perceptions and behavior
Abstract:
The unprecedented ease of global mobility allows individuals to transcend national boundaries and develop intimate understanding of cultures other than their own. Anecdotally, those individuals might be expatriates on international assignments, citizens who are minorities in their own countries (e.g., United Arab Emirates), or colloquial third culture kids – perpetual global nomads who might ascribe little value to their identity as citizens of their own passport country. Academically, those individuals can be termed as bicultural or cultural hybrids, nomenclature which brings attention to this fusion of multiple identities. The resulting internalization of values, attitudes, and perceptions emerging from dynamic cultural mixing has been attributed to increased coexistence of multiple identities or self-perceptions among such individuals (Hermans & Kempen, 1998; Tweed, Conway, & Ryder, 1999; Gurin, Hurtado, & Peng, 1994; Phinney, 1990, 1991; Sellers, Smith, Shelton, Rowley, & Chavous, 1998; Brewer, 1991; Turner, Hogg, Oakes, Reicher, & Wetherell, 1987).
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-17
Title:
The United Arab Emirates as a Humanitarian Actor: Role in the Syrian Refugee Crisis
Abstract:
Can a small Gulf country be considered a global humanitarian leader? What role has the United Arab Emirates played in the Syrian refugee crisis? What kind of policies has the UAE developed on migration and how would these apply or not apply to a specific type of migrant: the refugee? This paper will analyze the role of the UAE as a humanitarian actor specifically with regard to assisting Syrian refugees.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-16
Title:
Urban road network crisis response management: time-sensitive decision optimization
Abstract:
With the increasing global stock of vehicles, traffic congestion is becoming more severe and costly in many urban road networks. Road network modeling and optimization are essential tools in predicting traffic flow and reducing network congestion. Markov chains are remarkably capable in modeling complex, dynamic, and large-scale networks; Google’s PageRank algorithm is a living proof. In this article, we leverage Markov chains theory and its powerful statistical analysis tools to model urban road networks and infer road network performance and traffic congestion patterns, and propose an optimization approach that is based on Genetic Algorithm to model network-wide optimization decisions. Such decisions target relief from traffic congestion arising from sudden network changes (e.g. rapid increase in vehicles flow, or lanes and roads closures). The proposed network optimization approach can be used in time-sensitive decision making situations such as crisis response management, where decision time requirements for finding optimal network design to handle such abrupt changes typically don’t allow for the traditional agent-based simulation and iterative network design approaches. We detail the mathematical modeling and algorithmic optimization approach and present preliminary results from a sample application.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-15
Title:
Ethnic Identity and Wellbeing: Implicit in-group identity and language dominance predicts Wellbeing in Emirati Women
Abstract:
Identifying the determinants of psychological wellbeing occupies a central, and important, place in psychological research. Over the past twenty years, a large body of work has accumulated articulating both the constituent elements of wellbeing and the factors that promote and maintain it. However, much of this research has focused attention on the broad factors contributing to wellbeing such as the respective roles played by autonomy, positive interpersonal relations, environmental mastery, self-acceptance and purpose in life (Ryff & Keyes, 1995; Seligman, 2000). One variable and its relationship with wellbeing that has attracted some attention, is the role of cultural identity. Early work on this domain suggested that the incidence of psychological distress was higher in ethnic groups in their adopted countries. For instance, Patel (1992) reported that young British Asian women living in the United Kingdom experienced more psychological difficulties than their white counterparts. Of particular interest was that such a finding appeared to be generation specific and that the findings did not extend to Asian women of grandmother status but who were also living in the United Kingdom (Quraishi & Evangeli, 2007). One broad avenue of interpretation suggests that these age differences are attributable to the concept of cultural identity with older individuals having a more established identity but younger individuals experiencing more flux in identity and perhaps more cultural conflicts as a result. Research has been however equivocal in respect of this issue with Quraishi & Evangeli (2007) reporting that cultural identity status appeared to have minimal overall impact on psychological wellbeing. However, the authors suggest that the relationship may be far less pronounced in non-clinical samples in contrast to clinical samples (i.e., those reporting distress or engaging in self-injury).
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-14
Title:
Stock Market Listing, Investor Myopia and Innovation: The Role of Nominal Share Prices
Abstract:
Lower nominal stock prices tend to attract more speculative trading, causing higher price volatility, which may force managers of publically listed firms to excessively focus on short-term earnings at the expense of R&D. We hypothesize that firms investing more in R&D prefer to set higher share prices to mitigate investor short-termism and foster innovation. Consistent with this hypothesis, we find that firms with high R&D capital (1) choose higher share prices at their initial listing, and (2) are subsequently less likely to engage in stock splits to bring down their share prices. Justifying these price management actions, we find that high share prices are negatively associated with proxies of investor myopia. We also show that high share prices are positively associated with future productivity of innovation, after controlling for a host of other factors. Our results suggest that managers of publicly listed firms use nominal share price as a tool to enhance innovation.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-13
Title:
MATERIALISM AND UAE NATIONALS
Abstract:
Amongst examined populations, research has found materialistic values to be empirically associated with lower levels of life satisfaction. While the causes of materialistic values are plentiful, extant research suggests that a primary driver is the rapid urbanization and commercialization of a society, with youth being more susceptible. The dramatic transformation of the UAE over the past four decades, coupled with the relatively young population, increases the likelihood that materialistic values have been cultivated among the population. This study sheds light on the interesting but under researched case of materialism in the UAE. A self-report survey measured the materialism and life satisfaction levels of 210 UAE residents (80 nationals and 130 non-nationals). Materialistic values were found to be negatively correlated with life satisfaction amongst our sample. In addition, UAE nationals reported significantly higher levels of materialism than non-national residents. To uncover the causes and consequences of high levels of materialism amongst UAE nationals, four focus groups and 25 in-depth interviews were conducted. Five major consequences of materialistic values were revealed: 1) the development of an increasingly competitive and narcissistic society, 2) the development of a more judgmental and less accepting society, 3) the use of consumption as a tool to boost confidence and self-esteem, 4) an increase in family conflicts and the delaying of marriage, and 5) a lack of savings and an increase in debt. The primary causes of materialistic values were: 1) the rapid development and commercialization of the UAE, 2) the consequences of materialism propagating the values in a self-perpetuating cycle, 3) narcissism and competition on social media, 4) Emirati values of generosity, hospitality, perfection and pride, and 5) parenting and youths lack of financial responsibilities. To advance life satisfaction levels within the UAE population, we propose that policy makers implement awareness campaigns, educational programs, and legislation to reduce the current levels of materialism.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-12
Title:
Destination image: A comparison of French and Australian consumers stopover destination preferences for long-haul travel
Abstract:
In the first forty years of destination marketing literature there has been little research published in relation to stopover destination image. While destination image represents an important and popular research stream, most studies to date have not been context-specific. That is to say the image of a destination has commonly been measured without reference to the travel situation. The aim of this research was to identify attributes of destinations deemed salient to consumers when considering a stopover during long haul travel. Underpinned by Personal Construct Theory, the study used the Repertory Test in personal interviews with French consumers. The findings are then compared to attributes elicited from Australian consumers to identify any differences in attribute salience between these northern hemisphere and southern hemisphere travellers. The commonality of stopover destination attribute salience between the two samples will enable the development of a questionnaire to measure stopover destination image. A number of stopover destination attributes were identified that have not been commonly used in generic destination image studies. The study highlights the value of engaging with the consumer in the questionnaire design stage, and goes some way to support the proposition that due to the short stay nature of stopovers during long haul travel destination attribute salience might differ to that for other travel situations.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-11
Title:
Energy Management for Internet of Things-enabled Smart Cities in the UAE (Working Paper)
Abstract:
The drastic increase in urbanization over the past few years in UAE requires sustainable, efficient, and smart solutions for transportation, governance, environment, quality of life, etc. Smart city solutions must have the ability to efficiently utilize energy and handle associated challenges. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are considered as a step forward towards the green environmental and economical transportation. In order to increase the penetration of EVs in the future transportation system, the smart charging management for EVs becomes necessary to fulfill the charging needs efficiently. Internet of Things (IoT) is an enabling technology through which efficient charging management for EVs can be done in order to manage EVs, efficiently utilize consumer resources, and save money. In this work, we will present a brief overview of charging management for EVs and associated challenges in smart cities. We will further investigate placement of charging stations and scheduling optimization for EVs charging in smart cities. We will present experimental and simulation results to exhibit the tremendous impact of the proposed schemes/ algorithms on the performance of IoT-enabled smart charging management for EVs.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-10
Title:
Oil Wealth and Economic Growth Revisited: A Bayesian Model Averaging Approach
Abstract:
We investigate the effect of oil revenues on long-term economic growth within a Bayesian framework that accounts for model uncertainty. Our anal- ysis is based on an updated cross country data set for long term growth in the period 1970-2014 including 91 countries and 54 potential growth deter- minants. Initially, we do not find any empirical evidence for the existence of the \natural resource curse" in our sample. On the contrary, we document a robust positive effect of oil rents on long-term economic growth. Then, we introduce interaction terms of oil rents with potential conditions under which oil dependency can lead to sub-standard growth. Our second set of results shows that the interaction of institutional quality and oil revenues has a ro- bust positive effect on growth, while the constituent oil rent term is no longer robust. We conclude that institutional quality is necessary condition for oil revenues to have a growth-enhancing effect.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-09
Title:
An exploration of the contextual factors related to an English Language Program in the Gulf becoming a Learning Organization
Abstract:
This single-case study was conducted by three practitioner researchers working for the foundational English language program at an English-medium higher education institution in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Since 2013, the department has been going through a process of transition from a general English language skills curriculum to an English for General Academic Purposes (EGAP) curriculum, which has demanded a revision of personal and institutional philosophies of language, learning and teaching. The researchers hypothesised that the major changes that have occurred in the department in relation to reframing mental models, creating a shared vision, strengthening team work practices and utilising individual expertise for common organisational goals might have influenced the department into becoming a Learning Organization (Senge, 1997). The research was designed to explore the contextual factors in the department using the LO framework as its theoretical basis. This paper argues that the scholarly endeavour of an academic unit working on a curriculum issue provides an opportunity for professional development institutionally in terms of becoming a community of practice which displays features of a learning organisation. (Not sure if this should be in introduction)
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-08
Title:
Career Decision-Making: Empowering Emirati Females for Future Success
Abstract:
Career decision-making is one of the most challenging tasks that college students will face. Based on Social Cognitive Career Theory, this descriptive study employed the Career Development Self-Efficacy Scale Short Form (CDSE-SF) and a focus group to examine the perceptions Emirati female students hold about their ability to make decisions regarding their career choices. Undergraduate students (n=233) from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) participated in this study. The results indicated no significant difference in the students career decision-making self-efficacy (CDSE) whether they attended private or public high school, nor were their significant differences based on family involvement. Data also indicated that there were no significant differences in these students CDSE versus other college students around the world. Through the utilization of a focus group, we found that friends and family are the biggest influence in the career decision-making process for many students. However we found that family members often serve as obstacles to this process for many students as they may have negative stereotypes regarding some majors. Themes from the focus group also revealed that friends and introductory courses helped to increase CDSE.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-07
Title:
New Filmmakers in the UAE
Abstract:
The aim of this research is to take a tour of the recent history of cinema in the United Arab Emirates and to focus on the new generation of directors who are changing the country's audiovisual map. This research on cinema in the UAE arises from the assumption that the cinematographic production of a country is part of its social reality, since it is developed within a certain culture. It then influences its history, its economy, its politics, its customs, and its imaginaries. For Pierre Sorlin (1977) cinema is a reality where "the visible" of a society is presented. Or as Jean-Pierre Esquenazi (2003) would say, cinema is an expression of the social and cultural field that the filmmaker uses to create his work.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-06
Title:
CSR and public relations in the Middle East: Relationships among diversity climate, perceptions of CSR and employee engagement
Abstract:
Public relations and communication management scholarship in the field of corporate social responsibility (CSR) have generated a substantial body of scholarship from a strategic, instrumental perspective (Coombs & Holladay, 2012; Dhanesh, 2014; Du, Bhattacharya & Sen, 2010). The strategic approach argues that being socially responsible can generate mutual benefits for organizations and their publics, particularly reputational, relational and legitimacy returns for organizations. However, most of the work generated in this area of scholarship has focused on the customer stakeholder group, although employees have been identified as an important stakeholder group with respect to CSR. Responding to the call for more research on employees and CSR, scholars have started examining CSR as a tool for enhancing organizational attractiveness to prospective employees, enhancing organizational commitment and strengthening organization-public relationships (Dhanesh, 2012; 2014; Kim & Park, 2011, Lin, Tsai, Joe, & Chiu, 2012; Seltzer, Gardner, Bichard & Callison, 2012). This study proposes to augment research on CSR from the perspective of employee publics by examining relationships amongst diversity climate, perceptions of CSR and employee engagement.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-05
Title:
Exploring Culturally Attuned Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) as a Means of Improving Quality of life, Emotional Well Being and Academic Performance of Emirati College Students
Abstract:
Derived primarily from the Buddhist tradition, mindfulness has become an integral aspect of second-generation approaches to cognitive therapy. Research exploring such mindfulness-based approaches, is generally positive about their efficacy, particularly with regard to relapse prevention. Less well explored is the acceptability of these approaches, particularly among individuals spontaneously expressing theistic worldviews such as Islam. It is argued that many of the defining principles and techniques used within mindfulness-based approaches are congruent with Islamic values, and in some cases they are highly resonant with specific Islamic directives aimed at shaping human cognition and behaviour. This paper explores the need for culturally appropriate psychotherapeutic interventions in the Muslim world, with a specific focus on the use of mindfulness-based approaches within the Arabian Gulf states. It is argued that Mindfulness based approaches, can be highly resonant with Islamic thought and practice when presented appropriately. This paper details several bridging concepts aimed at helping Muslim participants/clients/therapists make connections between mindfulness-based approaches and the Islamic tradition. An important determinant of any intervention's effectiveness is its acceptability and perceived religio-cultural appropriateness among the target population. We argue that the use of such bridging concepts will, in many cases, make mindfulness-based approaches more appropriate and effective for clients with worldviews shaped by Islam.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-04
Title:
Emirati Women's Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy: Implications for Health-Care Policy
Abstract:
Menopause is a natural biological process referring to the end of women's reproductive state due to ovarian failure and occurs at the ages between 45 and 55 years with an average onset of 51 years. Menopausal women usually experience common symptoms that include sleep disorder, mood alteration, hot flashes, depression, urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, increased health risks for osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases that can be treated effectively by the Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). A community – based study of a random sample of 408 Emirati women aged 30 – 64 years attending primary health care centers in the Emirate of Dubai will be conducted. The study will investigate the knowledge and attitudes of the Emirati women in Dubai Emirate towards menopause and HRT. The participants will be interviewed using a structured questionnaire in Arabic, which includes socio-demographic variables, Menopause Knowledge Scale (MKS) and Attitude Towards Menopause (ATM) scale. Relevant descriptive statistics and associations will be obtained. The study findings will provide information about Emirati women's knowledge and attitudes towards menopause and HRT that enables health care policy makers to create and formulate a health care policy that enhances the menopausal women's quality of life.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-03
Title:
Distinction in locals support for a major and mega event - case of EXPO 2020 and F1 in UAE
Abstract:
Purpose: The purpose of the present research is to examine and explain any possible variance in the perception of local Emiratis towards hosting a major and a mega event. A Grand Prix Formula One was considered for a major event, which is organized yearly in Abu Dhabi and EXPO Dubai 2020 was researched as an example of a one-time mega event. Methods: Data of local Emiratis living in UAE were collected in-person. A selfadministered questionnaire was developed that consisted of tourism perception, negative and positive impacts, and individual support. The questionnaire was adjusted to each event and N=360 were collected for EXPO 2020 and N=533 were received for F1 questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and t-test were used to administer the differences in events’ perception.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-02
Title:
Boardroom Diversity, Corporate Governance & Innovation in the UAE Banks
Abstract:
Corporate governance carries strategic importance and should be addressed correctly by decision makers. Corporate finance literature suggests that diverse boards are a part of good corporate governance practice. However, it is not clear how good corporate governance- particularly diverse board characteristics might affect the corporate innovation and innovation search strategies. Utilizing the data from 25 banks listed in the UAE stock exchanges, this study evaluates the impact of boardroom diversity on firm innovativeness both before and after the drop in the oil prices. The results show that while gender and education do not significantly affect innovativeness of banks, having more experienced and independent board members enhances the innovation. The effect of experienced board members on innovation is more pronounced during the oil price drop period, while the effect of independent board members decrease after the drop in the oil prices.
Number:
ZU-WP 2017-01
Title:
On The future of energy and resource security in the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
The UAE is making notable progress in diversifying its economy through tourism, trade, and manufacturing. However, in the near term, oil, natural gas, and associated industries will continue to account for the majority of economic activity. Rising gas demand from power stations and industrial users such as petrochemical makers and steel manufacturers has turned the UAE into a net gas importer in the past decade, triggering multi-billion dollar investments into nuclear power and renewables. This paper looks into the patterns of energy production and consumption in the UAE in the context the changing nature of global energy markets. The paper will analyze current and proposed national energy initiatives, and assess their impacts on the future of the country. The research analyzed a wide range of statistics obtained from various sources to highlight the current situation and predicts some future scenarios. The study also adhered SWOT analyses of the energy scene in UAE and examined the impact of some external factors. The demand for electricity in the UAE, which is almost exclusively generated from natural gas-fired power plants, is set to rise at a rate of about 9 percent per annum through to 2020.
Number:
ZU-WP 2016-001
Title:
Women Empowerment and Participation in Labor Force in the UAE (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This report reviews the legislative environment for the economic empowerment of women in the UAE, their participation in the labor market and economic activity, the factors affecting women's participation in the labor market, women's associations and development, and concludes with recommendations on sustainability and equity requirements for women's economic empowerment in the country.
Number:
ZU-WP 2016-003
Title:
INSTITUTING RULES AND POLICIES REGULATING THE DOMESTIC WORKERS RECRUITMENT
Abstract:
The main aim of this paper is to institute a set of regulatory policies drawing upon the practices and experiences of other countries and in light of the local context to improve the recruitment of the domestic worker sectors. The goal of these policies will be to make the recruitment process more transparent and ethical in order to protect the rights and ensure welfare of the domestic workers as well as the employers. The paper will highlight the mechanism of improving the recruitment agencies sector and facilitate an amicable and productive relationship between employers and employees.
Number:
ZU-WP 2016-002
Title:
REFORMING THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS OF LOW-SKILLED LABOR IN THE UAE
Abstract:
By establishing a central licensing authority (CLA) in the UAE that is managed by reputable placement agencies in the UAE and overseen by a government entity (including but not limited to MoHRE) can largely resolve many issues involved in the recruitment process, while imposing minimum administrative costs. The CLA has two key responsibilities, the first of which is to reform the recruitment process through Models 1-3, and the second is to create a clearing house for jobseekers and employers.
Number:
ZU-WP 2015-003
Title:
AN ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC RISKS FOR ABU DHABI (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This research discusses different scenarios for actual or potential economic risks in the Abu Dhabi economy, focusing on elements of understanding, analyzing and evaluating economic risks and developing appropriate strategies for managing them.
Number:
ZU-WP 2015-002
Title:
EARLY RETIREMENT, BENEFITS AND THE COST OF LIVING AMONG NATIONALS IN ABU DHABI
Abstract:
Social and security authorities in the UAE, including the Abu Dhabi Retirement and Pension Benefit Fund (ADRPBF) may face three main challenges: Demographic, financial and early retirement. Due to the increase in life expectancy at birth (hence, number of years lived after retirements) and decrease in death rates, demographic challenges refer to the continuous increase in the numbers of retirees and their beneficiaries, which could create a kind of imbalance between revenues and entitlements. Financial challenges may arise in the future if financial resources are insufficient to meet the expenses. This may be largely due to the lack of any control on salary increases in addition to the lack of a higher ceiling for the salaries of the insured at the end of the service. Early retirement (retirement before the legal age) may impose a large financial burden on the system in the future and intensifies the loss in the contribution of experienced nationals to the development of the nation.
Number:
ZU-WP 2015-001
Title:
LABOR COMPETITIVENESS INDICATORS IN THE UAE
Abstract:
Labor competitiveness indicators relate to the way a country's institutions, policies and factors related to labor markets impact the country's productivity and economic performance. Maintaining or improving the UAE's performance on these key labor market competitiveness indicators will not only result in increased prosperity but will also contribute to each of four pillars of the country's 2021 vision (United in Responsibility, United in Destiny, United in Knowledge, United in Prosperity).
Number:
ZU-WP 2014-001
Title:
Teaching competencies in UAE Public Schools (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This research aims at exploring elements related to teaching competencies of teachers in the public schools of the educational districts of the six emirates that are linked to the Ministry of Education in the UAE (Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah). In particular, the research assesses the status of teachers in public schools, as the most important actors in the educational process, to identify obstacles to education and training activities and to develop policies to avoid them, as well as to identify the strengths of these processes in order to strengthen them.
Number:
ZU-WP 2013-001
Title:
Emiratis Labor Protection Policies and their Effect on Private Sector (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This report monitors the current protectionist policies of Emiratis in the UAE labor market and their impact on the situation of their employment in the private sector. It also discusses some world best practices that can be applied in the UAE and identifies other policies that can improve the conditions of the citizens in the labor market and their expected effects
Number:
ZU-WP 2013-002
Title:
Immigration and National Security in the UAE: Between Realism & Constructivism
Abstract:
This research project empirically analyses the impact of immigration (and related issues like citizenship and demographics) on national security in the UAE. We identify a range of security threats hypothesized to arise from immigration, whether perceived or "real", and test them in the current Emirati context. We base our analyses on 30 interviews of Emirati citizens with significant access to decision-making venues and/or reflective expertise on the issue, to gain a cross-section of current Emirati thinking on security threats stemming from immigration
Number:
ZU-WP 2013-003
Title:
Wages in Occupations Suitable for Emiratization in the UAE (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This research provides an analysis of wages of 155 occupational groups that are deemed suitable for emiratization in the UAE labor market. In addition, the research provides some elementary discussions of intervention policies related to forced emiratization and minimum wages
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-007
Title:
Classification of Companies in the UAE Private Sector (in Arabic)
Abstract:
The main objectives of companies classification the UAE private sector are to increase the number of Emiratis working in the private sector, to increase the cultural diversity of foreign labors within companies in the labor market, to increase in the proportion of skilled labor out of total employment in the labor market and to reduce companies labor violations related to treatment of workers. This research examines the most important changes resulting from this act on private sector companies and overall employment, as well as on opportunities of success of Emiratization policies in the private sector.
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-006
Title:
Labor Mobility in UAE Private Sector (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This research discusses the impact of relaxing some restriction on internal mobility in the UAE labor market on internal mobility within the labor market in general, as well as monitoring the effects of the degrees of increased flexibility in different sectors of the market. It also monitors the increased rates of internal mobility of employment in terms of type, skills, ages, gender and educational levels. This monitoring helps to understand the effectiveness of the decree in increasing the flexibility of the labor market, and comparing this effectiveness within the different economic sectors, as well as within the labor groups with their broad divisions.
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-005
Title:
SOCIAL IMPACT OF RELIANCE ON EXPATRIATES IN DAILY LIFE IN UAE
Abstract:
The Gulfs cities have witnessed a tremendous flow of human capital in recent decades. More than 75% of the population of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is made up of foreign nationals. In Dubai, for example, expatriates constitute more than 85 % of the total workforce. The diversification of business strategies in the region has led to expatriates working in all industrial and service sectors. The expatriates' presence has therefore had an impact on the working lives of the Emirati workforce. In particular, as a numeric majority, expatriates influence the work habits, management, and leadership style of Emiratis. In the same way, Emirati top leaders and managers influence the way work and organizations are structured and the status of expatriates in the UAE. Nevertheless, present research tells us very little about the topic of expatriate-local interaction and diversity in the workplace. This report bridges an important knowledge gap by shedding light on the impact that expatriates working in the UAE have on the Emirati workforce and organizations.
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-004
Title:
The Impact of the Labor policy on demographics
Abstract:
As a country that relies heavily on imported workers, the impact of the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) labor policies on demographics cannot be overstated. The number and the types of workers admitted into the UAE every year, and the duration of their stay, directly affect the demographic profile of the nation's population in terms of size, growth, age, gender, race, health, nationality, as well as socioeconomic status like education and income. Policies that continue to encourage the importing of young, uneducated and low-paid workforce from abroad would only exacerbate the existing gender and ethnic imbalance in the population; as such workers tend to be male, single, and coming from a few south Asian countries. By contrast, labor policies that encourage the use of more skilled knowledge workers are more likely to bring in people from more diverse ethnic backgrounds and with more balanced distribution across gender and age. Labor policies also affect demographics through their impact on marital and family relationships, as higher-paid workers are more likely to bring their families to the UAE or start one in the country than low-paid laborers are. The impact of labor policies on demographics of local population is significant too, most likely through their impact on female employment and costs of living, which subsequently affect local people's marriage patterns and fertility rates.
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-003
Title:
Duration of Stay of Expatriates in the UAE
Abstract:
Shares of expatriates of total population in the UAE have been consistently on the rise. It is widely believed that the very high number of expatriates is the main cause of the imbalance in the population structure in the country. In addition, increasing numbers of expatriates from certain regions may imply possible risks related to security, social and economic conditions in the country. This research aims at looking at the possibilities of implementing a system in which duration of stay of expatriate workers in the UAE labor market is limited to a maximum number of years. In particular, the research intends to provide an overview of duration of stay of expatriates in the UAE in relation to nationalities, occupations, sectors, skills and educational levels and to supply a number of scenarios which can be implemented in the UAE and the pros and cons of each scenario in terms economic and demographic factors.
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-002
Title:
The Effects of New labor Decrees on the Labor Market in the UAE
Abstract:
The new labor decrees issued recently by the Ministry of Labor represent a quantum leap in dealing with private sector companies, as they emphasize the costs to the offending companies and encourage Emiratization and recruitment of more skilled labor, in addition to the establishment of minimum wages that apply to skilled labor under certain conditions. It is necessary to consider the impact of these labor decrees on labor market conditions because labor market conditions have essential effects on efforts of decision makers in the country to move the economy from its current status, which depends on the activities of a labor-intensive, to knowledge-based economy that depends on highly skilled labor and advanced technology.
Number:
ZU-WP 2012-001
Title:
An Investigation into the Labor Market Behavior and Characteristics of Emirati Unemployed
Abstract:
The strong and robust growth of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the past decade has significantly raised the standards of living in the country, and has created remarkable economic and social transformations. However, there is some concern that strong output growth has yet to translate into an equivalent growth of jobs for UAE citizens, particularly outside the public sector and among young nationals. A careful estimate shows that the number of unemployed Emiratis by the end of 2011 is 34750, of which 72 percent are women, and 65 percent are youth. Among the youth, the percentage of unemployed females is 70 percent. In 2010 the Emirati unemployment rate was estimated at 14 percent; 8 percent among males and 28 percent among females. In 2011, the unemployment rate is estimated at 12.8%; the highest unemployment rate is in Al Fujairah (19.5%) followed by Abu Dhabi (15.1%) and the lowest rate estimated in Dubai at 7%.
Number:
ZU-WP 2011-004
Title:
Employment and Unemployment of Emiratis in Northern Emirates (in Arabic)
Abstract:
This research discusses the new developments in the national workforce in the Northern Emirates of the UAE in terms of employment and unemployment, in order to support efforts to develop a clear strategy for employing Emiratis in those emirates. The study focuses four topics: determining the growth in demand for employment in the Northern Emirates, studying developments in the national workforce and employment areas and self-employment for Emirati male and female, determining the extent of unemployment and job search mechanisms among Emiratis and assessing the demand for employment in the private sector in the Northern Emirates.
Number:
ZU-WP 2011-003
Title:
Trade Liberalization and Taxation: A Multi-Sector Dynamic CGE Model for the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
This paper develops a forward looking, multi-sector, dynamic computable general equilibrium model with oil for the United Arab Emirates. The model addresses three issues. The first is trade liberalization, where the UAE unilaterally lowers import taris. This has a favorable impact on welfare as domestic production is expanding, although labor-intensive sectors face a cost disadvantage and they are shrinking. The second issue, government revenue diversification, is simulated by increasing the indirect tax rate on goods to make the government less dependent on oil. This has an adverse effect on welfare as the economy is shrinking and production shifts from domestic production to exports, especially for labor-intensive sectors. Finally, a higher oil price has a favorable impact on welfare and overall, the economy is expanding, but more because of increased consumption and less because of increased production. This paper is the first attempt to address these issues in a dynamic forward looking general equilibrium context of the UAE and the Arab Gulf region.
Number:
ZU-WP 2011-002
Title:
Projection of skilled Labor Requirements in the UAE 2011-2025
Abstract:
The aim of this research is to shed some light on the expected future path of economic growth in the country in relation to the planned development and to assess the needs for skilled workers to achieve this. According to our models and assumptions, it is expected that the level of real GDP in 2025 will be between 1,300 and 1,540 billion AED. This refers to an average real economic growth of around 5% annually between 2011 and 2025. Currently, only around 19.8 of expatriate workers are skilled, while 70.9% of Emirati workers are considered to be skilled using our definition of skilled workers. Therefore, in total, less than 20% of all workers in the UAE are skilled.
Number:
ZU-WP 2011-001
Title:
Shifting Non-Work related Benefits to Work-Related Benefits to resolve the Unemployment of Locals in a Typical Oil-Rich Gulf Country
Abstract:
The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is sharing the oil wealth with the local population through various generous subsidies. Most nationals work for the government and compared to the private sector their salaries are far better, they have better working hours and more vacation days. A large pool of low wage migrant workers is active within the country. These two combined lead to unemployment of locals as they cannot compete in the private sector with the low wage migrant workers. Unemployment in 2008 amounts to 38, 186 Emiratis, out of the Emirati labor force of 468, 215. There is no unemployment of non-nationals as they leave the country if they are out of a job and cannot find another job. We conduct a possible cost-neutral policy experiment aimed at increasing the low levels of employment of nationals. Part of the non-work related benefits to the local population are shifted to work-related benefits. The general subsidy to nationals is reduced by 1.0% and this allows for a wage subsidy of 0.9%. The effects of this experiment are analyzed using a multi-sector forward-looking dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model and lead to an immediate drop of unemployment by 4.26%. Over time unemployment settles at a value that is 4.37% lower than its base run value. This is the first attemp to create an forward-looking multisector model for the Gulf region.
Number:
ZU-WP 2010-003
Title:
The Role of Manufacturing in Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth in the GCC
Abstract:
Over the past decade, manufacturing levels and manufacturing shares of non-oil GDP were growing in the GCC economies. However, this paper shows that the importance of manufacturing or non-oil GDP in general was declining relative to the oil sectors in these countries. This paper also shows that manufacturing is strongly linked to non-oil economic growth in the GCC over the long run, in a way that income and population are both important to stimulate manufacturing in the GCC, especially income. In the short run, manufacturing in the GCC countries has no significant effects on stimulating the growth levels of real non-oil GDP and that government spending might not be effective in terms of deriving the growth of non-oil GDP or stimulating diversification efforts in the GCC countries over the sample period.
Number:
ZU-WP 2010-002
Title:
WAGES IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Abstract:
Wage and salaries are the main part of labor costs for employers and main source of income for the employed. They are crucial information in business decision making and policy making. In an increasingly globalized world economy where capital, know-how, and talents are more mobile than ever before, wages and salaries are not immune to the impact of globalization and international competition. Workers compete not only with their fellow workers on domestic labor markets for better jobs and better pay, but also compete with foreign workers in foreign countries or with migrant workers who have come to the host countries for work. International competition has the tendency of driving down the gap of labor costs along certain dimensions but exacerbates the gap along other dimensions. As a result, wages reflect not only the supply and demand on domestic markets but on international markets as well, especially for countries with an open labor market.
Number:
ZU-WP 2010-001
Title:
The Cost of Foreign Labor in the United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
The aims of this study are to estimate and analyze the labor cost and its distribution in the UAE and to decompose it to direct cost to firms (e.g., wages, non-wage benefits, recruitment costs, labor fees, insurance, end of services) and indirect costs (e.g., energy subsidies, use of public services and infrastructure, security and social risks, etc). Those costs are compared to and linked to productivity estimates of foreign workers to draw analysis of the impacts of these costs on several labor market issues and on the ability of the UAE economy to compete in international markets.
