Determinants of job satisfaction in the UAE

Purpose The aim of this study is to identify the factors affecting job satisfaction in the UAE. Specifically, the study seeks to examine the relative effects of demographic and environmental factors on job satisfaction among Dubai police employees. Design/methodology/approach A scale development process was used. The first stage was a review of the literature on the determinants of job satisfaction in order to generate a pool of items that reflect the job satisfaction construct. A list of items was gathered to cover all aspects of job satisfaction. In‐depth interviews and a focus group were also used to generate additional items. Findings Overall, the findings show that, in a collectivist culture such as the UAE, both intrinsic and extrinsic factors can be a source of job satisfaction or dissatisfaction. Originality/value Given the importance of understanding the determinants of job satisfaction, and the paucity of research on the topic in the Middle East, this study is of great importance to both scholars and practitioners in the region.