Metaverse Adoption in UAE Higher Education: A Hybrid SEM-ANN Approach

The concept of the Metaverse is gaining popularity in higher education due to its potential applications in addressing engagement and interaction challenges, particularly in the context of distance learning. However, the readiness of higher education institutions to adopt Metaverse technologies and their impact on learning competencies and academic performance remains uncertain. This paper presents an empirical study conducted in UAE higher education institutions to investigate the determinants of Metaverse adoption and its influence on academic performance. The research framework integrates the resource-based view (RBV) theory, dynamic capabilities theory, and the ADKAR model. A questionnaire was developed to assess organizational and technological factors related to Metaverse adoption. The collected data was analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) hybrid approach. The findings provide insights into the readiness of UAE universities to adopt and benefit from Metaverse deployment in their programs, offering practical implications for improving learning outcomes.