This is a very sensitive issue. Let us not accuse one another of being responsible for the control expatriate workers exercise over small- and medium-sized businesses. The question should be: How are expatriate workers able to control these businesses? After all, the majority of foreign workers in the Kingdom come from poor families and are not highly skilled or qualified. They have not come here to run businesses but to work for employers. How do they end up running such businesses when in fact they do not have any financial support from banks or government funds? Why is it that Saudis, who are supported by these funds and by the government, are unable to run these businesses? The problem has multiple facets. Firstly, young men and women should realize that starting a business is not going to be a bed of roses. It is a tough thing and they have to work day and night if they want to accomplish their goals. The opportunities can be promising for those who are patient. They should not become frustrated or else they will be doomed to fail. Secondly, the agencies in charge of monitoring the market should be blamed. Government agencies should enforce strict penalties on tasattur (the illegal practice of Saudis permitting expatriates to manage businesses in their name in return for a share of the profits). The Ministry of Commerce and Industry needs to intensify its monitoring and inspection of small- and medium-sized businesses. If Saudi youth face obstacles, the ministry must remove these obstacles. By doing so, the ministry will make the mission of our young men and women easier. Thirdly, families, schools and civil institutions should educate children and instill in their minds the importance of work. I understand that some jobs might not be appropriate for Saudis. However, this mentality should change. We must face challenges. Look at how expatriate workers come to the Kingdom and start from scratch and then succeed despite the fact that most of them might be burdened with debts arising from buying their visas in their homeland. Why do they succeed? It is because they are persistent, persevering, honest and strong-willed. These are the ingredients of success. My message to our Saudi youth is as follows: Stop complaining and do not ask for more support than that which has already been provided.
