Exploring the influence of environmental, social and individual factors on the entrepreneurial intentions of Emirati university students

Purpose This study aims to understand the factors influencing university students’ entrepreneurial intentions in a rapidly developing entrepreneurial country. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey of 324 Emirati students was conducted. Using a structural equation analysis, the study identified strong associations between positive attitudes, self-efficacy, perceived university and country-level support for entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial intention. However, the relationship between social norms and intention was not direct, but an indirect relationship was found when coupled with self-efficacy and attitudes. Findings The findings suggest that increasing public awareness and promoting entrepreneurship as a viable career option will significantly impact students’ entrepreneurial intentions in the UAE. Furthermore, providing practical educational and resource opportunities can facilitate the process of starting a business. Originality/value This study contributes to entrepreneurship research by providing a unique perspective on the interrelationships among social, government and economic influences in an entrepreneurial context.