The impact of selected psycho-social variables upon employees' organizational commitment in the United Arab Emirates

This study aimed at analyzing some psycho-social factors which influence the commitment of 479 employees from different firms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Using the Organizational Commitment Scale (OCS), it was found that, amongst the participants, the discipline factor was more dominant than was the concern factor; however, motivation to update and develop organizations in which they were working was found to be the least important commitment expressed. Also the results showed no relationship between age and years of service on the one hand, and job commitment on the other; however, salary and educational level appeared to be significantly related with all OCS sub-scales except the discipline sub-scale. Results indicated also that those who were more satisfied in their jobs seemed to be more committed than those who were less satisfied, and females demonstrated more concern about their jobs than did male subjects - who used discipline as a way of expressing their commitment to their organizations. Employees working in firms which were managed by nationals were found to have higher commitment in the dimensions of discipline and concern. Moreover, married employees were more disciplined than were single ones. This study might provide some insights into the theoretical constructs predicting the organizational commitment of employees - which have yet to be shown to have cross-cultural validity.