Basic Information
Arbs, or those of Arab descent, have been a fixture in Saudi Arabian society for centuries. The term “white” can be often interpreted differently depending on the context and culture of the local people. In the case of Saudi Arabia, “white” is much more than just skin color or ethnicity. It refers to one’s economic and social standing in society.
The use of the term “white” is often used to differentiate social or economic standing, not race. Wealthier families are often referred to as “white” and less wealthy families are referred to as “Arbs”. The term “Arbs” is often used as a catchall phrase to refer to those people who are of a lesser economic and social standing, regardless of their ethnicity, skin color, or nationality.
In Saudi Arabia, the economic power is heavily concentrated within the wealthy class, who are mostly “white”. This power imbalance is evident in the access they have to better resources and services. It also means that those of a lower economic standing, typically Arbs, have significantly fewer opportunities than their counterparts.
Current State
In recent years, there have been some progress in reducing economic inequalities. But even with some progress, Arbs are still largely marginalized and labeled as “the poor” in Saudi Arabia. Arbs are typically not afforded the same opportunities and access to resources as the wealthier “white” population.
This lack of access is evident in the education system. Studies have found that while the education offered to white children tends to be of high quality, Arbs typically have to settle for inferior education that is often outdated and ill-equipped to prepare them for the modern world. In addition, admission to universities and scholarships are greatly skewed in favor of the white population.
The disparity in economic opportunities goes beyond education. Many Arbs are unable to accumulate wealth of their own and end up working in manual labor such as cleaning, construction, and retail jobs. These jobs are often low paying and provide little job security or prospects of changing social standing.
The Role of Politics
The role of politics is often overlooked when examining the social inequality between the two classes in Saudi Arabia. While laws can provide protection to the vulnerable, the political will to implement or enforce those laws is often lacking. This is particularly true for Arbs in Saudi Arabia, who often have the deck stacked against them, regardless of the law.
In recent years, the Saudi government has taken some steps to address social inequalities in the country. New labor laws have been enacted to protect workers and the minimum wage has been raised in some sectors. However, these measures are largely hindered by corruption and a lack of political will to implement them. As a result, Arbs are still unable to realize their potential.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of social inequality can be felt on many levels. Since Arbs are not able to accumulate sufficient wealth, there is a large gap between the two classes that leads to reduced spending and investment.
The lack of spending and investment also has an effect on the national economy. According to economists, the lack of social mobility and economic inequality for Arbs has resulted in slower-than-expected economic growth in Saudi Arabia. This, in turn, has an impact on employment opportunities, as businesses have fewer opportunities for growth.
Privilege and Responsibility
The narrative of privilege is often used to explain the unequal treatment that Arbs face in Saudi Arabia. Privilege does not just refer to those with wealth or power, but to those who are able to access certain resources and opportunities due to their social or economic standing. In Saudi Arabia, it is clear that privilege is wielded heavily in favor of the wealthy and powerful at the expense of Arbs.
This privilege is often used as an excuse to not take responsibility for the welfare of those that the privileged are supposed to serve. It is often argued that those Arbs that have managed to make something of themselves have done so despite the odds stacked against them, not because of them.
The Role of Religion and Culture
Religion and culture can play a role in social inequality. Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country and many of its laws are based on this religion. It is important to note that despite there being a prevailing attitude among some sectors of society that Arbs are inferior, there is still a strong belief in many parts of the country that Arbs should be treated with respect and dignity.
Culture can also play a role in social inequality. There is a prevailing attitude in Saudi Arabia that one’s value is determined by their economic and social standing. Despite progress being made in recent years, this attitude is still pervasive in many parts of the country.
The Future
The future of social inequality in Saudi Arabia remains uncertain. While progress has been made in recent years, it is important to note that significant work still needs to be done to ensure that Arbs are able to realize their full potential. It is also important to note that such progress will require a change in attitude and an acceptance of the need for change in the country.
As far as the question of “Are Arbs considered white in Saudi Arabia?” is concerned, it can be said that while the term is often used to differentiate economic and social standing, they are still not considered equal to the “white” population. The “white” population still holds a majority of the economic and political power in Saudi Arabia and those of a lower economic standing are unable to access the same opportunities.
Intersectionality of Discrimination
Discrimination based on socioeconomic status is but one of the many layers of discrimination that Arbs in Saudi Arabia are subject to. Other forms of discrimination such as gender and race also contribute to the marginalization of this group.
Women of Arab descent are often faced with a double whammy of discrimination. Not only do they have to contend with the discrimination faced by those of lower socio-economic standing, but they are also subject to the very real gender discrimination present in Saudi society.
Those from other ethnic backgrounds or nationalities face yet another layer of discrimination. This discrimination is based on the perception of some sectors of Saudi society that those from outside the country are a threat to the country or its culture.
The Role of Advocacy
In order to promote change, strong advocacy is needed. Organizations such as Amnesty International have taken up the cause of promoting change among Arbs in Saudi Arabia. The organization has been raising awareness about the ongoing discrimination faced by this group and has been pushing for greater access to basic rights and services.
There is also a need for stronger legislative action to protect the rights of Arbs in Saudi Arabia. While progress has been made in recent years, the laws in the country still need to be clarified and strengthened to better protect this vulnerable group.
Making Change
The fight for equal rights for Arbs in Saudi Arabia is an uphill battle. It is a battle that requires the full participation of a multitude of stakeholders including civil society, the government, and individuals. Everyone must be willing to work together for the greater good in order to ensure that there is meaningful change and that Arbs are able to realize their potential.
It is important to note that while progress is being made, it is still in its early stages. There is still a long way to go before Arbs in Saudi Arabia are able to enjoy the same rights and opportunities as their “white” counterparts.
