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The purpose of this paper is to appraise the influence and challenges of direct disinvestment or through foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Kingdom of Bhutan, particularly to identify the inflow of disinterment post pandemic and how it can be improved.

The authors investigated the influence of FDI on Bhutan’s economy by analyzing secondary published data by Asian Development Bank and government agencies of Bhutan. To find out the role FDI has played in the growth of the Bhutanese Economy.

The FDI is not playing a major role in the nation’s economy so far. However, its potential cannot be ignored as there is a need for foreign currency and expertise in the country. Furthermore, government policies are directly influencing the inflow of foreign exchange that affects the Bhutan’s economy. FDI has not increased considerably because of self-imposed restrictions blocking government policies.

This research is based on the data collected from secondary sources, which could be considered as the main limitation of this study. The Himalayan kingdom is not much open to the outside world in terms of the publication and availability of the data. Researchers put their best effort in retrieving secondary data from authentic sources.

This research has direct implications from an institutional perspective on the government policies and procedures. This study throws light on the elements that might help in improving Bhutan’s economy, employment and productivity for an overall development of economy.

Bhutan and similar countries need to understand the pros and cons of having FDIs. This study might help the government and the civil society to understand the trends FDI has triggered in the nation over last 30 years, and will help them to make appropriate policies and regulations dealing with foreign investments.

This paper underwrites the influence of disinvestment on Bhutan’s economy, which can revolutionize business, entrepreneurship and institutions. This research was conducted by analyzing secondary data released by authorized agencies, which indicated the lower inflow of foreign exchange and how to improve further.

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of service quality on graduates’ satisfaction as perceived by Middle East University (MEU) graduates.

This research is cross-sectional and aims to explore the effect of service quality dimensions (academic staff, administration, classrooms and library services) on graduates’ satisfaction. Data were collected from 399 graduates. After confirming validity, reliability and normality of the data, and the correlation between variables, multiple regressions were used to test the hypothesis.

The results show that all service quality dimensions are highly implemented by the MEU. The relationships between all service quality dimensions and graduates’ satisfaction are strong. Finally, results show that all service quality dimensions affect graduates’ satisfaction.

To generalize the results of this research, further studies are recommended to be carried out on other universities especially in Jordan. Testing the perception and satisfaction of other universities, stakeholders will help to improve service quality and to gain suitable competitive strategies.

Service quality is a key driver for universities’ sustainable competitive advantage; therefore, dimensions of service quality should be included within universities plan, strategies and daily activities.

Considering service quality in higher education improves countries’ economic development, quality of life and well-being. All corporate social responsibility pillars (social, economic, environmental responsibilities and national and international regulation and norms) should be adapted and adopted within services quality systems and programs.

Most of previous studies were carried out to test the students’ perception while this research is dedicated to explore graduates’ perception regarding service quality offered by the MEU.

This study aims to investigate the influence of requirement engineering (RE) on project performance (PP) in the context of NEOM* in Saudi Arabia. The study also aims to examine the relationship between three components of RE, evolving market needs (ECN), market changes (MC) and technological advancements (TA), on PP, through the mediating influence of effective communication (EC), change readiness (CR) and stakeholder engagement (SE). Further, the study aims to examine the moderating effect of team cohesion (TC) on the RE–PP relationships.

A research framework is developed by drawing on the resource-based theory and with the support of empirical evidence and rational arguments to propose a set of hypotheses relating to the constructs in the framework. The hypotheses are tested through survey data collected from individual employees working on different projects across NEOM. A total of 336 useable responses were collected that were analyzed through covariance-based structural equation modeling using AMOS v.28.

The results show although ECN and TA both have a positive impact on PP, MC had no significant relationship with PP. In terms of the mediation hypotheses, EC, CR and SE all partially mediate the relationships between ECN and TA with PP. However, there was no mediating effect in the relationship between MC and PP. Moreover, EC, CR and SE themselves have a significant positive influence on PP. Finally, TC proved to be a significant moderator between ECN and PP and TA and PP, but not in the case of MC and PP.

This study makes three novel contributions. First, most prior empirical studies examined the overall impact of RE on PP; however, the current study provides a more nuanced insight into the relationships between the three components of RE (i.e. ECN, MC and TA) and PP. Second, the mediating roles of EC, CR and SE between components of RE and PP present a finer-grained understanding of how project resources are linked to project success goals through features of the project team. Third, moderating influence of TC with regard to a higher possibility of success for projects are highlighted through this discovery.

This paper aims to examine the extent of benefits Kuwait University faculty received from the electronic resources offered by Kuwait University Libraries Administration, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

An online survey was distributed using Google Forms via different social media platforms and official emails. The sample was Kuwait University faculty from all 16 colleges.

The results showed humble use of electronic resources during this critical time. The faculty mostly used the electronic resources for writing research papers, and databases and e-journals were their most preferred resources. The majority of nonusers indicated that they did not need these resources, and the rest referred to their unawareness of these resources. The results also showed that the majority of nonusers were willing to learn more about the electronic resources and how to use them.

The results and recommendations of this study are expected to be beneficial to Kuwait University and Kuwait University Libraries Administration, specifically, in terms of knowing what the faculty members use and prefer and the problems they face when searching electronic resources.

The purpose of this study is to analyse potential models of Islamic crowdfunding as an alternative financing option for micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia. While crowdfunding has gained traction as an alternative funding source for businesses, it is unclear how far this concept can benefit a group of micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia.

This study uses a qualitative research approach by using data collected through semi-structured interviews with several experts and practitioners in crowdfunding, Shariah and entrepreneurship. Prior to discussing the facets of the findings, the data were analysed based on a thematic approach.

The findings reveal that while previous works of related literature suggest crowdfunding as a viable alternative financing option for entrepreneurs and their businesses, in reality, its practical implementation presents challenges. Numerous micro-entrepreneurs need more training in the areas of management and marketing. Such concerns raise questions about their ability to attract potential project backers. With the proper selection of Shariah contracts and several approaches to risk management, Islamic crowdfunding can potentially become an alternative funding source for microbusinesses.

Given the exploratory nature of this study regarding the applicability of Islamic crowdfunding as an alternative fund for micro-entrepreneurs, its findings may not fully encompass Malaysia’s context because of the limited number of participants involved.

The findings of this study offer guidelines on how to implement Islamic crowdfunding for micro-entrepreneurs. Consequently, Islamic crowdfunding has the potential to alleviate the government’s burden of providing funds for micro-enterprises and enhance their skills and mentality to be more independent, creative and able to promote their products.

While Islamic crowdfunding can be an alternative opportunity for business enterprises and community-based projects, it promotes the spirit of cooperation and collaboration within society.

Although Islamic crowdfunding is a topic that has been discussed previously, empirical investigations in this area remain scarce, mainly through qualitative approaches. Distinguishing from prior literature, this study analyses several potential models of Islamic crowdfunding from the perspectives of experts, practitioners and related agencies for micro-entrepreneurs. Moreover, this study bridges insights from related literature so that they offer practical applications to support micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia.

This study aims to investigate the possibility of practicing cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus among different takaful operators. It responds to the recent discussion paper published by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) on broader application of tàawun (mutual assistance), which seeks insights into cross-tàawun of underwriting surplus within takaful industry.

A qualitative, semi-structured interview is used to gather primary data, featuring 13 one-to-one interviews with selected Sharìah and operational experts in takaful. Open-ended questions are drafted according to BNM’s discussion paper to guide the interview. A content analysis method is used to delve into the topic based on scholarly papers, books and regulatory guidelines. A thematic analysis is applied to explore the qualitative data.

This study establishes the feasibility of cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus in takaful. Given that participants are the rightful owners of the underwriting surplus, cross-tàawun is deemed permissible with participants’ consent. With the view that underwriting surplus belongs to the fund due to outright transfer of contributions by participants, the regulators have discretion to permit cross-tàawun. The authorities can make any decision if it serves the public interest. Furthermore, the study provides Sharìah and regulatory requirements to govern the practice of cross-tàawun in takaful. Respondents of the study advocate for policy reviews and regulatory adjustments to facilitate cross-subsidisation of takaful surplus.

This study significantly contributes to the existing body of knowledge in Islamic insurance studies. It offers valuable insights for the regulators to formulate the required policies and guides takaful operators to develop products accordingly. Moreover, the study supports Sharìah scholars in making informed decisions about cross-tàawun practices.

This study fills a critical gap in the existing literature by being the first to examine cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus in takaful. The proposed cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus will enhance sustainability of takaful funds and contribute to stability of takaful industry. As a foundation, this study encourages future research to explore other relevant aspects of cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus in takaful operation.

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the thermal-diffusion and diffusion-thermo effects on magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) natural convective flow through porous medium in a rotating system with ramped temperature.

Using the non-dimensional variables, the flow governing equations along with corresponding initial and boundary conditions have been transformed into non-dimensional form. These non-dimensional partial differential equations are solved by using finite element method. This method is powerful and stable. It provides excellent convergence and flexibility in providing solutions.

The effects of Soret number, Dufour number, rotation parameter, magnetic parameter, Hall current parameter, permeability parameter, thermal Grashof number, solutal Grashof number, Prandtl number, thermal radiation parameter, heat absorption parameter, Schmidt number, chemical reaction parameter and time on the fluid velocities, temperature and concentration are represented graphically in a significant way and the influence of pertinent flow governing parameters on the skin frictions and Nusselt number are presented in tabular form. On the other hand, a comparison for validation of the numerical code with previously published work is performed, and an excellent agreement is observed for the limited case existing literature.

A very useful source of information for researchers on the subject of MHD flow through porous medium in a rotating system with ramped temperature.

The problem is moderately original, as it contains many effects like thermal-diffusion (Soret) and diffusion-thermo (Dufour) effects and chemical reaction.

Implementing big data analytics (BDA) for supply chain ambidexterity (agility and adaptability) and green supply chain (GRSC) presents various organizational challenges. These include leveraging BDA capabilities to balance agility and adaptability, integrating this combined approach with GRSC and aligning these efforts to enhance firm performance. This study explores the associations between BDA, supply chain agility and adaptability, GRSC and their impact on firm performance.

Incorporating a resource-based view and contingency theory, we developed a research framework and validated it with data from 355 Chinese firms. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.

The findings demonstrate that BDA capabilities had direct impact on supply chain agility and adaptability, GRSC and firm performance. Moreover, the combination of supply chain agility and adaptability affected GRSC; which in turn significantly influenced firm performance. Supply chain agility and adaptability mediated the relationship between BDA capabilities and GRSC. Additionally, GRSC mediated the relationship between BDA capabilities, supply chain agility and adaptability and firm performance.

This study offers both a theoretical and empirical examination of the relationships between BDA capabilities, supply chain agility and adaptability, GRSC and firm performance. By assessing the direct and mediating effects of these factors on China’s industrial sector, it presents new theoretical and practical insights into BDA and GRSC, thereby enhancing the value of the existing literature.

This paper aims to address the need to adopt circular economy models in the urban development and infrastructure of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE and Saudi Arabia. The purpose is to provide insights into the progress, challenges and potential benefits of transitioning from a linear to a circular economic model in response to the environmental challenges posed by rapid economic development and population growth in the GCC region. The study emphasizes the relevance of this research in fostering economic diversification, mitigating ecological concerns and attracting sustainable investments.

The study adopts a qualitative approach to investigate the adoption of circular economy principles in each GCC country’s urban development and infrastructure. It details the specific strategies and initiatives undertaken by Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE and Saudi Arabia. The research methodology includes a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), thematic, comparative and individual analysis of their goals, progress and the unique approaches employed. Additionally, a SWOT analysis is conducted to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats associated with adopting circular economy models in the GCC region.

The case studies reveal each GCC country’s diverse approaches and progress in adopting circular economy models. Bahrain aims for carbon neutrality by 2060, Kuwait prioritizes sustainability in urban development, Oman focuses on waste reduction, Qatar integrates circular economy principles into its Vision 2030 initiative and Saudi Arabia explores closed-loop material flows. Whereas, the UAE focuses on infrastructure development with unique technological advancements in the near future. Despite common challenges such as traditional linear models and economic obstacles, the benefits of transitioning to circular economies in the GCC region are substantial. These include social, environmental and economic advantages, emphasizing sustainable growth, resource efficiency and enhanced environmental protection.

This paper contributes original insights into the adoption of circular economy models in the GCC region, providing a clear and succinct case for its value. The research underscores this transition’s economic, environmental and social benefits. It emphasizes the significance of sustainable resource management and economic opportunities while acknowledging challenges such as implementation obstacles and potential business impacts. The study invites reflection on future research steps, fostering a balanced and fair analysis of the value of the results. It positions the adoption of circular economy models as a crucial step toward achieving economic diversification, and environmental sustainability and attracting green investments in the GCC region.

This study aims to identify enablers of belief and ethics-based marketing practices, establish relationships among the factors and present them in a hierarchical model to derive critical insights. This paper emphasizes interpretations of the in-depth interviews to decipher the market pervasiveness of the evolved model.

In-depth interviews were conducted with individuals and small groups of informed and elite respondents pursuing marketing guided explicitly by ethics and led by belief. The interview data further corroborated with the related literature contributed to specific factors. Finally, interpretive structural modeling has been implemented step by step to develop a systematic model for enablers.

This paper contributes a structural relationship of morality and ethics, strengthening faith and belief through philosophical understanding, which traverses into the actions related to societal benefits with the support of market opportunity development while bringing in value, enhancing the demand in return and establishing market pervasiveness. The crux of this paper is that the foundation of belief will reduce the hierarchy of other related factors while strengthening their interdependencies with equity to contribute to the development of the pervasiveness of the market for such organizations.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study exploring and examining the enablers contributing to belief and ethics-based organizations’ pervasiveness along with their interrelationships. The initial intrigue that led to the inquiry was evidence of the market pervasiveness of such organizations’ products and services across various streams.