A proposal by a Shoura Council member to shut down small groceries (baqalas) has evoked a mixed response by the expatriate community and an upbeat mood among nationals as they feel it will boost the economy.
Mohammed Abdulrahman, a food warehouse owner, said, “This move will definitely boost the economy and bring more employment to Saudi men and women. Besides this, the large retail shops with high standards and quality products will provide better consumer services.”
Likewise Sami Ahmed, a financial analyst, said, “The large grocery shops and supermarkets will not only boost nationalization efforts, but also build competition that will have a positive impact on the economy and focus on the wellbeing of consumers. This competition will bolster productivity and international competitiveness of the business sector and promote dynamic markets and economic growth.”
However, some expatriates are disappointed with the government resolve to decrease the number of expats in all sectors.
“Saudi Arabia has always been a popular country among those looking to relocate for work. Most of the expatriates working here earn more money than in their home country. This decision will certainly stop our source of income and make it difficult to find another job,” said Haroon, the owner of a small grocery shop in Rehab district.
A Bangladeshi worker, Hamza, who has been working since 15 years in a neighborhood grocery shop is planning to return to his country.
“We respect the decision of the Shoura Council. This country has given us everything, from financial satisfaction to a good lifestyle.
However, since I have less qualification, finding a job will be tough. It is definitely disappointing and disheartening.”
In the same breath, he added, “Several shoppers with no means of transport rely on shops like ours. Also, many of them don’t want to go to big shops for small things.”
Moreover, some expatriate consumers expressed their concerns at the closure move. “Most of the time I shop from the grocery store near my house. It will most probably be difficult to not have baqalas nearby and will be time consuming to go to supermarkets,” said Salem, an Egyptian resident.
But another resident said, “If the large retail supermarkets can offer the right products at reasonable rates and give home delivery, then there is no problem.”
By Afshan Aziz
