Return Migration to Al Shimasiyah Governorate

This study aims to reveal the geographical characteristics and features of the phenomenon of Return Migration by applying to Al Shimasiyah in Al-Qassim Region. To achieve this objective, the study used the Descriptive Analytical Approach, as the most appropriate to be applied to geographical studies, as it relies on data collection, description, and analysis. In addition, a questionnaire was deployed on a sample of approximately 100 returning migrants in Al Shimasiyah Governorate, by applying the Snowball Sampling method on male migrants who are the head of their families. The most important aspect of this study is to rely on a traditional method through distributing a questionnaire in daily and periodic gatherings in the Governorate, and a more modern method by distributing about 35 questionnaires electronically through “WhatsApp”.
The study yielded several significant results, including a rise in the number of immigrants from Riyadh to Al Shimasiyah, followed by those coming from the Eastern Province, then those coming from the Northern Borders Province to constitute the lowest proportion of Al Shimasiyah Governorate. The study also found that the most serious problem faced by returnees to Al Shimasiyah was the lack of services, whether healthy, educational, or recreational, followed by the lack of investment opportunities. Accordingly, the study recommended expanding development projects and capitalizing on development plans; and increasing educational, health and recreational services; with a view to creating more employment opportunities that attract young people. Consequently, the Governorate becomes more attractive to the population.