Exploring the Influence of Relationship Quality Dimensions on Students’ Loyalty: Evidence from Private Higher Education Institutions in the United Arab Emirates

Maysoon Al-kaisi; Saleh Mohammed Al-Azzam

doi:10.35696/0wea2h39

Authors

Maysoon Al-kaisi مؤلف https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2490-0244
Saleh Mohammed Al-Azzam مؤلف https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0573-7370

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35696/0wea2h39

Keywords:

Quality of relationships, Student loyalty, Higher education institutions, Trust and commitment, Emotional commitment

Abstract

This study explores the influence of relationship quality dimensions-specifically student–institution, student–faculty, and student–peer relationships-on students’ loyalty. the research sample comprised 107 students from two local private institutions The study adopts a quantitative research design, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to undergraduate students in private higher education institutions in the UAE. Sharjah Maritime Academy in Khorfakan and Al Wasl University in Dubai (AWU). The study employed the G-power technique to ascertain the optimal sample size, while data analysis, encompassing both the measurement and structural models, was conducted using SmartPLS 4. The study's results indicate that emotional commitment plays a pivotal role in fostering students' loyalty. This emotional attachment to the institution, faculty, or peers leads to a stronger sense of belonging and investment in the educational experience, ultimately resulting in higher levels of loyalty. Additionally, goal commitment was another significant predictor of students' loyalty. When students are dedicated to achieving their academic and personal goals within the educational institution, they are more likely to remain committed and loyal to the institution throughout their academic journey.

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