International Students in Higher Education Institutions in the Arab World

Abstract

Seeking knowledge outside one’s homeland is a traditional practice with evidence in most ancient civilizations, both Eastern and Western. The establishment of universities in both the Arab and Western worlds has contributed to making international student mobility a characteristic of higher education institutions, which increases cultural and ethnic diversity compared to public education institutions. The current study aims to explore the reality of international student mobility in universities of Arab countries and to determine the numbers of international students hosted by higher education institutions in some Arab countries, as well as to identify students studying abroad from those Arab countries. The study also aimed to identify the challenges faced by international students in higher education institutions in Arab countries. The study found that educational institutions in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Arab Republic of Egypt are the largest in terms of hosting international students in their educational institutions. The study also found that a large number of Arab countries host few international students, which may be attributed to some security and economic conditions. The results also indicated that international students in higher education institutions face challenges related to psychological, social, and economic aspects, as well as problems with adaptation and self-confidence.

Citation

Al-Bishr, S. G., Al-Arifi, A. S., Al-Zahrani, M. A. A., & Al Khalis, M. F. (2024). International Students in Higher Education Institutions in the Arab World. International Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, (55), 68-85. https://doi.org/10.33193/IJoHSS.55.2024.682

Analysis and Commentary

International student mobility has long been a historical phenomenon, fostering knowledge exchange and cultural interaction across civilizations. With the advancement of higher education institutions in the Arab world, many universities in the region have become attractive destinations for students seeking to study abroad.

The Reality of International Student Mobility in Arab Universities

Many universities across the Arab world have witnessed a significant rise in the number of international students. Certain countries stand out as key destinations for attracting these students, including:

• Saudi Arabia, known for its advanced academic programs and extensive scholarship opportunities.
• The United Arab Emirates, which offers a modern educational environment and a wide range of degree programs.
• Jordan, recognized for its high-quality education in various disciplines.
• Egypt, home to prestigious universities with a strong academic heritage.

Factors Attracting International Students

Several key factors contribute to making Arab universities appealing to international students:

• High-quality education and international academic accreditation.
• Rich cultural and historical diversity, enhancing students’ experiences.
• Opportunities for advanced research and scientific innovation.
• Availability of English-language programs to accommodate a broader student base.

Challenges Faced by International Students

Despite these advantages, international students often encounter various challenges, such as:

• Difficulties in adapting to a new cultural and social environment.
• Language barriers, especially in countries where Arabic is the primary language of instruction.
• Financial constraints, including tuition fees and living expenses.
• Psychological stress, homesickness, and the struggle to build self-confidence in a foreign setting.

Efforts of Arab Universities to Support International Students

To enhance the experience of international students, Arab universities have implemented several initiatives, including:

• Academic counseling and orientation programs to facilitate adjustment.
• Cultural exchange activities to promote student interaction.
• Provision of suitable university housing to meet international students’ needs.
• Scholarships and financial aid programs to ease economic burdens.

The Future of International Student Mobility in the Arab World

With the growing emphasis on international education, Arab universities are expected to further expand their efforts in attracting global students. Many countries in the region are investing in educational infrastructure and modernizing academic programs to strengthen their position as leading global education hubs.