Transition Experiences of Filipino Licensed Professionals from Non-Academic Practice to Academic Practice in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The study examined the experiences of Filipino licensed professionals transitioning from non-academic to academic roles in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, focusing on the reasons for their move, challenges faced, cultural aspects, satisfaction with their new positions, and intentions within the educational sphere. This study examined the transition of Filipino professionals to teaching roles in Saudi Arabia, using interpretivism and phenomenology to explore their lived experiences. Interpretivism helps understand their cultural and professional shifts, while phenomenology uncovers how they perceive their identity transformation. The research, based on in-depth interviews, highlights challenges like cultural adaptation and acculturation. Nine participants with diverse backgrounds were purposively selected for their insights. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and confidentiality, were integral to the study. The findings offer valuable perspectives on the career transition process, providing insights into the emotional and transformative journey of Filipino teachers in Saudi Arabia’s academic setting.