An IMGW News Report:
A court in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sentenced 57 Bangladeshi nationals to lengthy prison terms for organising protests against their government. According to state media, three individuals received life sentences, 53 were sentenced to 10 years, and one to 11 years for “gathering and inciting riots.” Deportation will follow the completion of their sentences.
Background Context:
Student-led protests in Bangladesh erupted after a court reinstated a quota system reserving over 50% of civil service jobs. Students demanded the abolition of quotas, including the 30% reserved for descendants of 1971 independence war freedom fighters, citing stagnant job growth and high youth unemployment.
The government’s crackdown on protests and attacks by ruling party-linked groups triggered nationwide unrest, challenging Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s fourth term. Despite a curfew and army deployment calming violence, protesters demand accountability for 163 deaths and over 500 arrests, including opposition leaders. Hasina denies accusations of authoritarianism and human rights violations.
Contrasting Dynamics in the Gulf States:
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries – Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE – are transforming their residency and citizenship policies to diversify their economies away from oil dependency. Initiatives such as Saudi Arabia’s ‘Privileged Iqama’ and the UAE’s ‘Gold Card’ attract foreign investment and skilled workers, driving a real estate boom.
While these reforms foster economic growth, they present challenges in integrating foreign nationals into traditionally conservative societies. Personal freedoms are a concern, as cultural and legal norms in the Gulf often diverge from those in Western or non-Muslim countries. Saudi Arabia still practises public executions, while the UAE only recently abolished stoning as a method of execution. These differences create friction for new residents, particularly concerning freedom of expression, women’s rights, and religious freedoms.
The Numbers Say It All:
Expatriates represent about 88.52% of the UAE’s population, with Emiratis constituting roughly 11.48%. Most immigrants reside in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with Indians and Pakistanis forming the largest expatriate groups. Similarly, in Qatar, expatriates make up approximately 88.4% of the population. In Saudi Arabia, foreigners account for over 40% of the population.
Given the minority status of the native population, the UAE government is striving to increase job opportunities for Emiratis to address demographic imbalances and boost nationals’ role in the workforce.
Regional Societal Structure:
Regional experts observe that the Gulf states are creating a three-tier society: native-born citizens at the top, expatriate residents – often wealthy property investors – below them, and foreign workers from around the globe at the base. Although the UAE does not offer a direct citizenship-by-investment program, it has seen an increase in citizenship applications for selected talents since launching its Investment Migration Program in 2021.
‘When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do’
Foreign workers and expatriates must adhere to local laws, but the rising influence of Western lifestyles often clashes with repressive laws and restrictive rules affecting personal freedoms. Although Gulf states may showcase the trappings of cities like Paris, London, or Berlin, the freedoms enjoyed in those cities are notably absent. This disparity underscores the ongoing tension between traditional norms and Western standards. If not addressed, this conflict could erode the region’s significant opportunities over time.
Investment Migration programs have fueled a real estate boom in the Gulf states, with major projects like Saudi Arabia’s The Line and other large-scale luxury developments in Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. However, concerns about the treatment of foreign workers, especially in the construction sector, persist.
Population projections suggest significant growth, with Saudi Arabia expected to reach 45 million by 2050. The UAE and Qatar are also anticipating demographic increases. These changes, driven by new migration policies, present both opportunities and challenges. Balancing economic benefits with social cohesion and personal freedoms will be crucial for success.
