Happy Saturday world!
I think Saturdays are perfect for the Saudi Stories section because it's the weekend in Saudi and the world! Since Saudi's weekend starts Thursday night instead of Friday night it ends Saturday instead of Sunday. I am just hoping more people will get to see these stories.
my lovely green passport mashallah
I recently graduated from London and received my master's degree in Interior Architecture *mashallah* yay? meh. I just got back to Saudi last week. From the moment I stepped into my dad's car, he started asking me about my plans next. After meeting my dad, I met another bunch of family members and friends who echoed the same questions. That question led to many conversations, especially with relatives who recently graduated with masters/PhDs from British/American universities. All conversations revolved around one thing, the lack of opportunities for Saudis and the seemingly great opportunities for the "golden nationals". The golden nationals are Americans, British, Canadians, Australians AKA Native English speakers. That phrase alone gets you the job whatever that job is. Even if the language isn't required.
For instance, my friend and her husband both graduated from a top British university in a specialised biology field with a PhD *mashAllah*. The field is very much needed in Saudi universities, but they have been struggling for nearly a year now to find ANY job in Saudi and the gulf. Few months ago, my cousin finally got a job at a private medical college in the Eastern Province, but it was about two hours drive from where she lives. She asked for housing in the college teachers' compound, but her request was denied because she is Saudi. She also got denied health insurance and maternity benefits because as a Saudi she should be included in her husband's health insurance. The thing is, her husband is still in the search for a job. It all doesn't make sense. Keep in mind, the golden nationals get a higher salary -in their higher currency- than hers with less degrees plus housing, health insurance & maternity. I am not sure how that's fair.
Also, I personally experienced the same thing. When I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, I got two offers from Saudi private universities in Jeddah that are located in the Western Province. That's a two-hour plane ride from where I am from. My first question was about housing and if it will be included in my hiring package. I got laughed at and ignored. They were like "but you are Saudi, we don't provide housing". That's true I am Saudi! and housing should be provided for me, especially that I am coming from the opposite side of the country. I ended up rejecting the offers. Meanwhile, the golden nationals and other non saudi teachers, were given a good salary - again in their own higher currency- plus housing and other benefits.
These are only few examples. There are many more similar cases. I think it's great that those people are welcomed in Saudi and given cool opportunities, but it will be even greater if jobs are given based on the individual skills, relevant degrees and work experience to holders of ANY nationality.
Note: I am positive & accepting towards everyone from all colours, genders, religions, backgrounds and nationalities. This post is about the current reality in Saudi.Disclaimer: The Saudi government is trying to regulate these issues with new work laws and Saudization, but private sectors are taking their time to implement it.
Part 2 will be about the level of skill and the degrees of Saudis vs. golden nationals.
Feel free to share your thoughts *positively* in the comments.