Economic stability perception among Keralites in Gulf countries: A comparative study of Saudi Arabia and Oman

This paper examines how Indian expatriates from Kerala perceive their economic stability, contrasting their experiences while working in Saudi Arabia and Oman with their prospects following repatriation. Data were collected via a survey of 512 participants, evenly split between the two host countries. Analysis using descriptive statistics, reliability measures, and multivariate tests yielded two key findings: first, expatriates in Saudi Arabia reported marginally higher satisfaction levels during their overseas employment. Second, and more significantly, both groups projected a major decline in their economic stability after returning to India, with female expatriates perceiving this risk as particularly acute. The study concludes that effective support for returning migrants requires reintegration policies specifically designed for the unique circumstances of different host countries.

Key Words: Expatriates, Economic Stability, Repatriation, Keralite Migrants