Abstract

This article seeks to fill in the gap in the existing literature on global migration, overseas Chinese, and Sino-Gulf relations by focussing on the experiences of second-generation Chinese expatriates in the UAE. Based on in-depth interviews with a group of teenagers and young adults who have spent their formative years in the UAE and their parents, this paper examines the educational aspirations and identity dilemmas among second-generation Chinese expatriates in a cosmopolitan setting with an Arab Muslim cultural root. It seeks to unravel the complex feelings of being simultaneously privileged and marginalised among these young adults. It shows that the broad political-economic forces powerfully shape the positionality of the centre and periphery. The discourse of ‘becoming global’ helps to anchor these young adults in a rapidly evolving world and cope with alienation and marginalisation.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.