This study seeks to investigate the internationalization of social enterprises in Saudi Arabia and seeks to answer the question raised by researchers regarding the paucity of research about traditional commercial enterprises compared with social enterprises. The study uses a multiple case study approach, and the findings show that social enterprises face several motivations driving internationalization efforts were found to be (1) financial motivation, (2) solving social problems in the international market, and (3) the Islamic/Muslim culture of applying strong social values. Moreover, the study identifies several enablers that can facilitate social enterprise internationalization, including (1) human resources skills and experience; (2) the firm’s global mindset; (3) network inclusion/membership; (4) slack resources of the firm; and (5) psychic distance/similar language, culture, and business practices. Also, the study identifies several barriers, such as (1) cultural differences; (2) lack of human resources; (3) identity confusion; (4) the perceived credibility of social institutions; (5) tension between strategy and structure; (6) economic/ lack of financial resources and support; and (7) lack of information and knowledge about foreign markets. Furthermore, the primary in addition, the study adopts an ambidexterity lens to examine how social enterprises manage the tension between profitability and social responsibility. Drawing on these findings, the study advances a new model of social enterprise internationalization. This Model offers a comprehensive framework of social enterprise internationalization that considers both internal and external factors affecting these enterprises and shows the processes they experience. In addition to the model, this study contributes to both theory and practice in several other ways. It offers a deeper understanding of the barriers and enablers of internationalization for social enterprises in the Saudi Arabian context. Further, the study develops a context-specific understanding of social enterprise internationalization - with the study’s focus on Saudi Arabia providing a unique perspective in a region in which research on this topic is limited. The findings highlight the country’s supportive policy environment and entrepreneurial culture, which offer opportunities for social enterprises to thrive.