Facing the challenges of consumerism in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

As Saudi Arabia seeks sustainable development progress through reducing reliance on petroleum, a service-based economy and a subsidized welfare state, it is also important that the nation adopts and implements policy and strategies to curb consumerism. The Saudi government sets an objective of the Seventh Development Plan (2000-2004) to rationalize consumption. Some public actions have been taken to curb consumerism, but the objective has not been perceived as a high priority and no strong and influential voices in the Kingdom are affirming its importance. The issue urgently needs attention since Saudi Arabia’s sudden lurch directly from a traditional to a consumer society has created numerous problematic consequences. In addition, the country economy is dependent on a single, diminishing natural resource vulnerable to fluctuations in world prices and rampant population growth increasing demand for goods and services. This study describes and analyzes the consumption patterns in Saudi Arabia and suggests further policy changes and strategies to curb consumerism