This study examines attitudes toward public opinion surveys among Arab populations using original data from Qatar. Unlike previous research, it discovers a new dimension reflecting perceived survey intentions.

Population & Setting:

Qatar's diverse population allows comparison between Qatari citizens and expatriates with non-Arab respondents.

Findings: Survey attitudes influence cooperation in Western democracies but differ significantly within the Arab world.

Arab participants held generally positive views of surveys, though distinct from those found elsewhere. Factor analysis revealed core dimensions similar to Western contexts alongside this new dimension on perceived intentions.

Experimental Insights:

Two embedded experiments demonstrate that generalized survey attitudes affect willingness to participate regardless of other factors.

Negative perceptions about reliability and motives increased under-reporting among Arabs; non-Arabs focused primarily on time/cost concerns.

These results highlight unique dynamics in Arab societies regarding surveys, offering crucial guidance for researchers navigating data collection challenges.