Austerity : Saudi nationals get a taste of real life

Saudi nationals in Riyadh, such as Bader al-Ajmi (pictured), are taking up blue-collar occupations usually filled by foreign workers

Until now it was unthinkable to find Saudi nationals doing menial jobs. Well, it appears the times are changing as they are now forced to work as mechanics, tea-sellers and burger flippers for the first time due to austerity. Ordinarily, blue-collar jobs are occupied by expats from Africa or Southeast Asia, but they are leaving the Saudi kingdom in droves. 800,000 have left since 2017.

Rising gas prices and a sluggish economy are being blamed for the 'new age of austerity.'




Saudi citizens who used to live in luxury in the oil-rich state are having to adjust by tightening their belts.

Unlike before and to the utter amazement of many, Saudis now cook, clean and work at gas stations. These were jobs which have largely been the preserve of foreign workers, who far outnumber Saudis.

However, Saudis are increasingly taking on such 'low status' jobs in a new age of austerity when gas is no longer cheaper than water. 

The country has resolved to wean citizens off government largesse as it prepares for a post-oil era.

Traditionally, nearly two-thirds of all Saudis are employed by the government, and the public sector wage bill and allowances account for roughly half of all government expenditure.

Saudi economist Abdullah al-Maghlouth said the new economy will push more Saudis to become plumbers, carpenters and tailors, jobs that were acceptable decades ago in the pre-oil boom era.