Exploring the influence of environmental, social and individual factors on the entrepreneurial intentions of Emirati university students

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Journal of Entrepreneurship and Public Policy

Publication Date

1-1-2024

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to understand the factors influencing university students’ entrepreneurial intentions in a rapidly developing entrepreneurial country. Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional survey of 324 Emirati students was conducted. Using a structural equation analysis, the study identified strong associations between positive attitudes, self-efficacy, perceived university and country-level support for entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial intention. However, the relationship between social norms and intention was not direct, but an indirect relationship was found when coupled with self-efficacy and attitudes. Findings: The findings suggest that increasing public awareness and promoting entrepreneurship as a viable career option will significantly impact students’ entrepreneurial intentions in the UAE. Furthermore, providing practical educational and resource opportunities can facilitate the process of starting a business. Originality/value: This study contributes to entrepreneurship research by providing a unique perspective on the interrelationships among social, government and economic influences in an entrepreneurial context.

ISSN

2045-2101

Disciplines

Business

Keywords

Emirati students, Entrepreneurial attitude, Entrepreneurial intention, Structural equation modeling

Scopus ID

85208950856

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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