Saudi Journalist Criticizes “Erosion” Policies Squeezing Local Workforce
While the Saudi government promotes improved quality of life and support for its citizens, a recent report from a Saudi journalist suggests that a series of strict and punitive labor regulations is disrupting the careers of Saudi nationals, ultimately compelling them to leave their jobs.
In a commentary published in the newspaper Al-Madina, journalist Ahmed Ajeeb criticized what he terms “imposing laws to discourage the workforce.” He argues that these regulations are eroding the livelihoods of local workers and sapping their motivation. According to Ajeeb, these laws consist of a set of illogical decisions designed to put employees under such immense pressure that they have no choice but to quit. He adds that this pressure is typically directed at Saudi workers, while foreign employees are largely exempt.
Ajeeb provides several examples of this discriminatory policy in action. For instance, he points to the financial strain on food truck owners, who are burdened with a hidden daily tax in the form of high costs to return their vehicles to a home base. This expense, he notes, can often be equivalent to their entire daily income. He also describes the harsh treatment of security guards, who, despite their minimal wages, are expected to be strict with visitors but risk being fired at the slightest complaint. Furthermore, teachers are forced to remain at school long after their teaching hours have ended, with no specific educational activities to perform, simply to complete their official workday. This policy, Ajeeb writes, has led many to consider early retirement.
The journalist warns that these policies are a direct threat to the dignity, peace, and job security of the Saudi workforce, raising concerns about the long-term impact on the kingdom’s domestic labor force.
