Characteristics of the re-entry experiences of returning saudi international students after studying abroad

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to describe the characteristics of the re-entry experiences of Saudis returning to Saudi Arabia after studying abroad. The total number of participants in the study was 21, consisting of 13 male and 8 female participants returning from studying in the U.S., U.K., and Australia. By conducting semi-structured individual interviews with the participants, the findings showed six themes including motivations for returning home, preparing for returning home, feelings on returning home, the nature of relationships with family, the nature of relationships with friends and sense of belonging. Implications of the findings and directions for future research are provided.