It is heartening to note that Saudi Arabia is taking decisive measures to face socioeconomic challenges. The ambitious plan announced by Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman indicates the Saudi leadership’s resolve to take all the challenges head-on. The plunge in global oil prices has affected the Saudi economy and various future plans but the policies announced recently would help the Kingdom minimize its dependence on oil revenues and diversify the national economy.
The Saudi Vision 2030 is undoubtedly an ambitious program but it is not unachievable. It is said that where there is a will, there’s a way. The Vision 2030 is the will of the Saudi leadership and now things will fall in line one after another. It is very important for all Saudis to join hands with their government to help realize the dream of transforming the mostly oil-based Saudi economy into a new vibrant and dynamic economy that does not depend on a particular sector.
It is very important for the Saudis to change their working habits. They should do away with the habit of blaming expatriates for their economic woes. The expatriates do realize that it is not their country and they are living in Saudi Arabia just to earn a living. Expatriates have been issued visas to come and work in the Kingdom. The common perception, promoted by various writers in the Saudi newspapers, that expatriates are usurpers is wrong. I call on all such writers to stop fanning xenophobic sentiments among their Saudi readership. It is not very healthy to drive a wedge between people living and working together.
Saudis should understand the importance of utilizing foreign talent for the development of their country.
Even the announcement of a proposal to consider issuance of permanent residency to certain expatriates is an acknowledgement of the Saudi government of the role the expatriates have played in the development of the country. — Omar Shahid, Jeddah
In the face of challenges
