Exploring Elite Labor Migration

Abstract

This thesis investigates the complex push and pull factors that influence elite labor migration by focusing on Lebanese elite youth who migrate specifically to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for white-collar job opportunities. The study moves beyond strict economic analysis to explore the various societal factors that intersect and contribute to elite labor migration. It argues that the economic crisis in Lebanon, combined with societal influences, motivated elite individuals to seek opportunities abroad. These societal factors are driven by perceptions and beliefs that elite labor increases the chances of success, career growth, and better salaries. Furthermore, the study delves into the common and prominent pull factors in the UAE and KSA through a comparative analysis to understand why these two countries are attractive destinations for some elites. Moreover, it takes into consideration the impact of white-collar jobs on destination choice. This thesis provides rich insights from migrants’ personal decision-making experiences based on 12 semi-structured interviews. It contributes to the migration literature by better understanding the complexities within labor migration dynamics.