Employing people with intellectual disabilities in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and solutions from an employer perspective

Abstract

This study sought to identify the challenges involved in employing people with intellectual disabilities from an employer’s perspective, along with potential solutions to those challenges. The study used a qualitative approach, with semi-structured interviews the main method of data collection. The sample of eight individuals are purposefully selected managers of private sector companies in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. The study found that, from the perspective of these employers, the key challenges involved in employing people with intellectual disabilities are the need to provide an appropriate work environment, and the cost involved in doing so, and the lack of awareness of the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities, together with the related fears, and a lack of awareness of the benefits of employing such individuals. The study provided suggestions for overcoming these challenges, and suggests ways in which the employment of people with intellectual disabilities in Saudi Arabia can be promoted.