eParticipation in Saudi Arabia: A User-centric Model

Abstract

This research project provides insights into the readiness of users to participate in eGovernment activities in Saudi Arabia. The level of eParticipation in Saudi Arabia could be increased by policymakers who understand and implement the influences found in this research. A user-centric model of eParticipation is developed and is empirically tested drawing on a review of the literature. The findings are based on an online survey of a sample of 240 citizens and residents living in Saudi Arabia. The study found that there are positive and negative influences on eParticipation. Awareness, social influence and identity, and benefits of eGovernment have a positive influence on eParticipation. Social media and trust are not significantly related to eParticipation. This project contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence of users’ willingness to eParticipate in government policy- and decision-making activities, as well as in other political and democratic processes in Saudi Arabia.

Keywords: eGovernment, eParticipation, Social Identity and Influence, Awareness, Trust, and Social Media