Determinants of Indonesian Nursing Students’ Intention to Work in Middle Eastern Countries

Abstract

Introduction:

Global nurse migration continues to reshape health systems, with Middle Eastern countries remaining major destinations for international nurses. This study examined determinants of Indonesian nursing students’ intention to work in Middle Eastern countries using push–pull and transcultural perspectives.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional online survey of Indonesian nursing students (n = 858) was analyzed using bivariate tests and multivariable binary logistic regression, reporting adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

Intention was lower among female students (aOR = 0.47) and unemployed students (aOR = 0.31) and lower among married students (aOR = 0.37) than unmarried peers. Intention was higher among students enrolled in applied bachelor’s or bachelor’s nursing degree (D4/S1) programs (aOR = 1.71) compared to those in lower-level programs, and among those reporting beginner Arabic proficiency (aOR = 1.96) compared with no Arabic proficiency. These findings indicate that both sociodemographic factors and language readiness shape migration intention.

Discussion:

Nursing education should strengthen transcultural preparation, targeted specific language competency, and guidance on ethical, equitable pathways for international employment in Middle Eastern health systems.

Keywords

health worker Indonesian nurses international migration immigrant workers nursing students

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