Multi ethnicity residents perception towards a country – evidences from United Arab Emirates

Abstract

The study focused on identifying and testing the variables that impact residents' perception towards a country i.e., UAE. The study was conducted among the residents who belong to multi-ethnic groups such as America, Europe, Africa, Middle East, South Asia including UAE nationals about the selected variables that influence their perception about UAE as a place of destination at present, and becoming a place of excellence in 2030. Two hundred thirteen respondents from different ethnic groups were interviewed and the results revealed: 1) entertainment, tourism, shopping, safety and security, event management, medical tourism, etc. elicit a positive perception among residents about present status of UAE; 2) entertainment, tourism, safety and security, investment, business, event management, etc. elicit a positive perception among residents about UAE becoming a place of excellence in the year 2030. The implications of the results were discussed.