Expat views on Saudi Arabia?s transformation

Given that the number of expatriates in Saudi Arabia far outweighs the number of Saudi citizens, their views on the transformation of the kingdom from an oil-dependent state to a flexible economy are worth hearing.

Long-stay expats in Saudi have mixed views on the changes so far, with some especially appreciating the loosening of laws against women’s’ independence, focusing on the removal of the ban on driving as well as the opening up of cinemas. As the Saudi National Day approaches, expats as well as Saudi citizens are looking ahead to see what other changes are in the Saudization pipeline, with most in favour of the direction of the present transformations.

In general, expats appreciate the fact that the kingdom is rich in natural resources, with most believing modern methods can provide a spectacular improvement, both in the state’s economy and in their lives. Overall, there’s approval of the move to make life easier for Saudi women by allowing them to join in the push to develop the economy away from traditional restrictions on their participation in modern life as well as in business. This, along with the opening of cinemas for the first time, is the most popular aspect of the changes to date.

Many long-stay expatriates are surprised about recent developments, as none were expected until recently. Other suggestions for improvement include keeping shops open during evening prayers and improving infrastructure with the emphases on roads and better maintenance of cities. Generally, it’s hoped that changes made in the future will concentrate on improving the Saudi economy by diversification away from dependence on oil revenues to a more generalised GDP structure. Expats in general are keen to witness even more constructive changes and their effect on the economy.