Abstract
In 2014, mandatory national service for male Emiratis was first introduced in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Youths’ perceptions of national service influence their expectations of and subsequent adjustment to service life. This study examined perceptions of male Emirati youths on enlistment propensity and motivation, interest in a military career, and information sources on national service. Eighty male Emiratis from two age groups (high school students, employed youths) were surveyed 4 months post-implementation of the law. It found that younger participants were more negatively propensed toward the service than older participants. Regardless of propensity, benefits, dignity, family, and fidelity were main factors in youth enlistment decision. Most participants were ambivalent toward a military career post-national service. Younger participants’ main information sources were limited to immediate family relations. These findings would contribute to national capability development and could be used by the UA...
Highlights
In 2014, mandatory national service for male nationals (Emiratis) was introduced in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
This study aims to examine perceptions of Emirati youths on the UAE national service program and compares the perceptions of Emirati high school students with employed youths on enlistment propensity and motivation, interest in a military career, and information sources on national service
The findings showed that most participants were ambivalent toward a military career post-national service but reported an increased interest in pursuing a military career compared with the previous year (2013)
Summary
In 2014, mandatory national service for male nationals (Emiratis) was introduced in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Conscription affects education and career plans of youths as the waiting period before active service incurs costs as lost opportunities for employment and skills acquisition. Future conscripts’ perceptions of national service influence their expectations of and subsequent adjustment to service life. Studies on perceptions of national service have largely been conducted in countries with extended military histories. In the UAE, there is scarce research in this area given the recent implementation of service law. This study aims to examine perceptions of Emirati youths on the UAE national service program and compares the perceptions of Emirati high school students with employed youths on enlistment propensity and motivation, interest in a military career, and information sources on national service
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