Characteristics of the Re-Entry Experiences of Returning Saudi International Students after Studying Abroad

Abstract

The main 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 Saudi returnees, consisting male (n=13, 61.90 per cent) and female participants (n=8, 38.09 per cent)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 that answered the main question of this research. These themes include 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.