South African Expatriate Teachers in the Gulf Arab States: Push and Pull Factors for Leaving.

This study examines the motivations and experiences of South African teachers who migrated to teach in Gulf Arab States, including Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait. Using qualitative methods guided by Expectancy-Value Theory and Herzberg's Motivational Theory, the research identifies key push factors such as low salaries, limited professional growth, poor working conditions, and systemic challenges like corruption and overcrowded classrooms in South Africa. Pull factors attracting teachers to the Gulf include significantly higher salaries, better benefits, professional advancement opportunities, and social networks facilitating migration. The findings highlight the complex interplay of economic, professional, and social influences driving teacher migration, underscoring the need for comprehensive policy reforms in South Africa to improve teacher retention through better compensation, career development, and working conditions.