Perceptions of key stakeholders on the internationalization of higher education institutions in the UAE

The current study, using previously found frameworks of strategic area internalization, examined three key stakeholders' perceptions about the (i) meaning, (ii) significance, (iii) rationales, and (iv) risks of internationalization of higher education in the UAE context. Data was collected from 1323 students, 237 faculty members, and 119 administrative staff members in eight universities. Findings demonstrated that stakeholder groups had similar and differing perceptions in select strategic areas. For instance, while stakeholders collectively valued internationalization as a powerful means for knowledge creation and sharing, there were significant differences among stakeholder groups on the three domains. Post-hoc tests showed that nationals and non-nationals significantly differed in the rationale and perceived risks of internationalization. Similarly, students significantly differed from administrators on three domains. Findings would help policymakers in reconciling the differences between stakeholders towards maintaining effective internationalization efforts.