The interplay of emotional intelligence, work-life balance, job satisfaction and work engagement: Insights from the MENA region

This study examines how emotional intelligence (EI) affects work-life balance (WLB), job satisfaction (JSAT), and work engagement (ENG) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, addressing gaps in the literature by exploring these relationships in a non-western context and assessing the mediating role of WLB using spillover and job demands-resources (JD-R) theories. To test the study hypotheses, data was collected through an online survey. The data collected was analyzed using the Smart-PLS software. The findings support the proposed relationships. Positive relationships were found between emotional intelligence and job satisfaction. The proposed mediation between emotional intelligence and job satisfaction through work-life balance was supported, as well as the mediating impact of job satisfaction between emotional intelligence and employee engagement. Importantly, the study highlights how emotional intelligence contributes to enhancing employees’ overall quality of life by fostering better work-life integration, greater job satisfaction, and deeper engagement at work. This research extends the study of emotional intelligence and employee well-being to the MENA region by offering fresh insights and practical implications. It also aims to inform policymakers by emphasizing the importance of aligning employee needs with organizational goals to create more effective and human-centered workplace policies.