There are various reasons why such variables are selected to examine their
relationships with depression. Specifically, empirical research demonstrates that Arab
employees are confronted with emotional exhaustion (Haj-Yahia et al., 2000). Empirical
research also reveals that employees in frontline service jobs of the hotel industry are
faced with emotional exhaustion/burnout (Karatepe and Aleshinloye, 2009; Kim et al.,
2007). Such a strain exacerbates depression (Baba et al., 1999). Therefore, this study
focuses on emotional exhaustion as a work-related strain, which leads to depression.