I am writing with regard to the article “When will we diversify our income sources?” (Dec. 26). To grow the non-oil private sector, you need new companies to stir up competition and force innovation. It is a fact that 80 percent of new businesses around the world are started by experienced staff. In Saudi Arabia, people with experience (long-term highly-skilled expats) cannot start businesses so job creation and productivity will remain low. Most of the expats who came here in the 1980s -1990s will retire soon and this gigantic potential will be wasted. Make it possible for this potential to be utilized and watch growth and GDP skyrocket. Observer, Online response II. This is not only a crucial issue for Saudi Arabia but also for other Gulf states. The $300 billion budget of the Kingdom cannot be sustained without other sources of income if there is no oil money. Tax reform such as what happens in the West is an option. Saudi Arabia should wake up before the storm hits because oil will run out sooner or later. XZaky, Online response III. Making the most of natural resources is exactly what the country has done. But diversification has to be the initiative of citizens. They have to take responsible decisions and contribute in the best way that they can. Entrepreneurs should come forth and provide solutions and try to create and mold industries. Then the government can help them develop their businesses. We cannot expect the government to do everything. Every citizen of every country must help to initiate, plan, develop and create. Intellectual Mind, Online response
