Abstract

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable business practices, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has emerged as an essential component within the energy sector, permeating every facet of its operations. Despite extensive studies on CSR-related strategies, there exists a notable gap in understanding the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) at a regional level. Consequently, this research focuses on Saudi Arabia, the world's largest energy consumer, as a pivotal hub for analyzing the specific CSFs of corporate social responsibility within the energy sector. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review to gather CSFs, subsequently validated and assessed by experts and industrial managers based in Saudi Arabia. Employing the 'Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory' (DEMATEL) method, the research analyzes and visually represents the most influential CSFs for promoting CSR. The findings underscore the significance of Saudi energy companies prioritizing key success factors, categorizing them into cause-and-effect groups. Notably, this research marks the pioneering effort to scrutinize CSFs relevant to the energy sector on a regional scale. It provides initial insights into the strategic process of CSR implementation, presenting a decision framework aimed at aiding managers in the Saudi energy sector to establish a robust foothold in CSR implementation. The findings of this study contribute unique perspectives to energy consumption, offering actionable strategies for industry leaders navigating the dynamic landscape of sustainable energy practices.