In the Arab Gulf, jobs like plumbing, electrical work, barbering, shopkeeping, and taxi driving are often undervalued, leading many locals to shy away from them.
As a result, these roles are mostly filled by foreign workers, highlighting the need for a shift in societal attitudes and greater local involvement.
Efforts are underway to reduce reliance on expats by equipping locals with the necessary skills. This shift emphasises the vital role blue-collar work plays in national development. In many parts of the world, people take pride in these jobs, seeing them as crucial to the economy. However, in the Gulf, cultural perceptions still pose a significant barrier. Many see these jobs as low-paying and less respectable—a stigma that is outdated and harmful to the region’s growth.
Changing these perceptions is a gradual process, but progress is being made. Governments and the private sector are expanding vocational training programmes and integrating them into education systems. By modernising traditional blue-collar jobs with new technology, these roles are becoming more appealing. For example, advanced technology in construction is reducing the need for foreign labour while creating more skilled jobs for locals. These advancements make the work safer, more efficient, and financially rewarding, contributing to sustainable development. Promoting national pride can also motivate citizens to take up blue-collar jobs. Presenting these roles as a patriotic duty not only reduces reliance on foreign workers but also boosts the country’s self-reliance. When people see these jobs as critical to the nation’s future, they are more likely to embrace them with pride and commitment.
Education plays a crucial role in changing how blue-collar jobs are viewed. By including vocational training in school curriculums, young people can start to see these careers as respectable and fulfilling from an early age. Schools and colleges need to align their training programmes with industry needs, ensuring that students gain valuable skills that are in demand. Promoting apprenticeships and certifications can make these careers more attractive by providing a clear path to employment that also allows students to earn as they learn. Many Gulf countries have already started programmes to increase local participation in blue-collar jobs. Additionally, they have introduced wage protection systems and labour reforms to ensure fair employment practices, which help foster equality and inclusivity in the workforce. By valuing all jobs equally, we will be building more cohesive societies where every role is respected.
A common misconception about blue-collar jobs is that they are poorly paid. In reality, skilled tradespeople often earn good incomes, sometimes even more than those in certain white-collar professions. For instance, a technician or taxi driver can earn around RO 80 per day, leading to a monthly income of about RO 2,080. By expanding their operations, such as hiring an assistant or focusing on high-demand services, their earnings can increase significantly. This shows that these so-called "small" jobs can indeed lead to substantial income. Governments in the Gulf can further support this shift by highlighting the financial potential of blue-collar careers. They can do this by sharing success stories, offering financial incentives, and providing financial education programmes to attract more citizens to these jobs.
By encouraging people to take advantage of blue-collar jobs and providing the necessary support through incentives and social recognition, the region can develop a workforce that is self-sufficient and successful in all areas. While efforts to promote blue-collar jobs are underway, more work remains. The Gulf can achieve a more balanced and self-sufficient workforce by learning from successful programmes and adapting strategies from neighbouring countries. As the saying goes, "Where there's muck, there's brass," it’s time to recognise the true value in every job.
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