How does integration and conflict management between different social groups work in Saudi Arabia?

A complex system between tradition and modernity

Saudi Arabia shows a multi-layered integration and conflict management systemwhich combines traditional Arab-Islamic mechanisms with modern state institutions. Social integration takes place at various levels and is strongly characterized by the Vision 2030, which calls for a "vibrant society" but is also characterized by structural challenges and persistent discrimination.

Traditional conflict resolution mechanisms

Sulh and Musalaha: Islamic reconciliation rituals

The traditional Arab-Islamic system is based on the concepts Sulh (reconciliation) and Musalaha (reconciliation)[1]. These mechanisms are deeply rooted in the tribal Islamic tradition and function as institutionalized forms of conflict management. Sulh is a legally binding contract at both individual and community level, which is concluded in total or partial/conditional form can end[1].

The Wasata tradition (mediation) plays a central role in which Elders or respected tribal members as neutral third parties act as mediators[2]. These mediators are called Wisdom, impartiality and knowledge of tribal dynamics selected. Their main objective is to, Preserving the dignity of all involved and find solutions that restore the balance[2].

Majlis: Consensus-based decision-making

The Majlis system (tribal council) functions according to the principles of Inclusion and consensuswhere elders and key players come together to discuss conflicts[2]. These Collective decision-making not only strengthens community ties, but also ensures that results are recognized as fair and legitimate are perceived[2].

One notable example is the Resolution of a 43-year tribal conflict in the Asir region through a "Community Peace Establishment Committee"which successfully achieved reconciliation between the Bani Jabra tribes[3].

Modern state institutions

King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue (KACND)

The KACND is the central state institution for social integration and was created specifically to "Values of tolerance, coexistence and cohesion" to promote[4]. The center works with the UN Development Program (UNDP) together and has a National Cohesion Index developed, which 84% national cohesion in Saudi Arabian society[5].

The index comprises four areas:

• Socio-cultural cohesion: 87,12%

• Security cohesion: 85,83%

• Political cohesion: 80,95%

• Economic cohesion: 75,21%[5]

The center leads 42 Initiatives including the National Dialogue Awardwhich recognizes government and private institutions and individuals who have contributed to the Strengthening positive values in society[6].

Taradhi: Digital arbitration system

The Taradhi" electronic arbitration center of the Ministry of Justice revolutionizes conflict resolution through Automated processes and Complete digitization[7]. The system covers various areas:

• Civil status and employment law

• Real estate and intellectual property

• Criminal and traffic matters

• Business disputes[7]

The Taradhi platform enables Virtual mediation sessions and places Legally binding arbitration documents which can be taken to court in the event of non-compliance[7].

Mandatory mediation in commercial law

Saudi Arabia has Mandatory mediation in 2020 for certain business disputes[8]. The Commercial Courts Law (CCL) requires mediation before court proceedings for:

• Monetary claims between companies up to SAR 1 million

• Commercial contract disputes up to SAR 1 million

• Disputes between partners in Mudarabah agreements

• Contractual disputes with ADR clauses[8]

This approach integrates "traditional amicable settlement values with modern legal practice" and shows how Saudi Arabia cultural values with modern legal practices connects[8].

Integration of different social groups

Tribal integration and modernization

Saudi Arabia is experiencing a "Renaissance of tribalism"[9], which, however, differs fundamentally from historical forms. Modern tribal identity is no longer based on economic forms of subsistence, but on shared values and customs and the belief in hierarchical patronage systems[9].

The Vision 2030 is working to reconcile tribal values with national goals. One example is the Redesign of the camel beauty contests: In the past, individual tribal events often led to Feuds between tribeswhich is why the state King Abdulaziz Camel Festival organized under the auspices of the state in order to tribal prejudices through shared national pride to replace[10].

Women: Dramatic integration with structural limits

The Integration of women into the labor market is showing impressive progress: The Labor force participation increased from 17.4% (2017) to 36.2% (2024)[11]. 44% of middle and senior management positions are now occupied by women[11].

Support programs such as Wusul (transportation subsidies for 80% of the costs) and Qurrah (affordable childcare) address practical obstacles[11]. About 280,000 certificates were spent in various sectors, resulting in the employment of more than 120,000 Saudi Arabian women led[11].

Nevertheless Structural barriers: Women are in GDP-strong sectors such as mining, construction and manufacturing with less than 10% Representation underrepresented[12]. In the logistics sector, women only make up 4% of the total workforce from[12].

Expatriate integration: between benefit and exclusion

Saudi Arabia is home to 13.4 million foreigners (41.5% of the total population)[13], but integration takes place selective and functional. The MIPEX system categorizes Saudi Arabia's approach as "Immigration without integration"[14] as the country refuses to recognize that it is a country of immigration.

Positive integration initiatives

The "Global Harmony" initiative of the Media Ministry aims to achieve this, "to emphasize the diversity and richness of expatriate cultures"[13]. The initiative includes events during the Riyadh Seasonwhich Cultures from 11 different countries India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, Yemen, Sudan, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Bangladesh and Egypt[13].

Labor market reforms

The Labor Reform Initiative (LRI) of 2021 brought historic changes for 10 million guest workers[15]. The reforms enable:

• Changing jobs without the employer's consent

• Departure without employer consensus

• Direct application for government services

• Digital documentation of employment contracts[15]

Benefited until September 2021 51,730 foreign workers and 29,175 companies from these reforms[16].

Structural exclusion

Despite reforms Systematic mechanisms of exclusion exist. The Kafala system makes migrants Extremely dependent from their sponsors[17]. Around 4 million people work as domestic workers, exclusively migrant workers, who often Exploitation and abuse experience [see previous answers].

The "Green Card" initiative allows expatriates greater flexibility, including the Possibility to sponsor family members and own property[18]. This promotes Long-term commitments to the kingdom.

Youth: generational conflict and integration

New generation challenges

Saudi Arabia is experiencing a "silent generational change"[19], which is fundamentally changing society. 70% of the population are under 30 years old[20], and this generation navigates between traditional values and modern aspirations.

Young Saudi Arabs do not reject traditions - they reshape them[19]. While their parents have clear social scripts followed, young people are navigating a society that is changing "has changed practically overnight"[19].

Labor market integration

The government addresses Youth unemployment (e.g. 30%)[20] by various programs:

• Entrepreneurship promotion as an alternative to public employment

• Start-up incubators and accelerators for business start-ups

• Digital skills and training programs

Social media as an integration tool

High social media usage young Saudi Arabian has a "cultural revolution" triggered[20]. These platforms serve as Spaces for expression, creativity and connectionbut can also Tensions between generations reinforce[19].

Religious and ethnic minorities: Limited integration

Shiite Muslims

The Shiite minority (10-16% of the population) remains systematically discriminated against[21]. Although in the Eastern Province concentrated, they are of practically excluded from higher government posts and are regarded by state clerics as "Heretics" [see previous answers].

Some Improvements are recognizable: MbS' appointment of a Shiite Muslim to the CEO of NEOM increased approval among Shiites[22]. Nevertheless Structural discrimination in education, employment and the legal system[21].

Interfaith dialogs as an integration tool

Saudi Arabia leads Innovative interfaith initiatives to promote religious tolerance. The KAICIID Dialogue Center founded in 2005 and the 2022 "Common Values Among Followers of Religions" Conference in Riyadh show efforts to Religious coexistence[23].

The First multi-religious conference in Riyadh brought over 100 religious leaders together, including more than 15 rabbis[23]. However, these initiatives are mainly symbolic and do little to change the systematic discrimination religious minorities in everyday life.

Institutional conflict resolution mechanisms

Public Prosecution Social Stability Initiative

The Public prosecutor's office runs a social stability initiativewhich 2,656 Domestic and social disputes in 2020[24]. The initiative achieved a 60%ige success rate for domestic cases, including 1,657 Family and juvenile disputes and 429 money-related cases[24].

The initiative uses Penal reconciliation units, advisors and experts for family and social matters without taking cases to court[24]. This shows how traditional reconciliation concepts be integrated into modern state structures.

Specialized services for vulnerable groups

Saudi Arabia has comprehensive Social protection systems developed for different population groups[25]:

People with disabilities: 419,750 Beneficiaries receive financial support. About 900,000 people benefited from classification and valuation services[26]. The "Facilitation" card provides access to public facilities and benefits for over 183,000 persons[26].

Orphan careComprehensive programs offer Educational and rehabilitation environments through shelters and specialized institutions[25].

Elderly care: Health, social and psychological care and financial support from the Social Security Agency[25].

Challenges and limits

Structural discrimination

Despite progress in integration Fundamental structural problems:

• Tribal hierarchies continue to create "Discrimination based on ethnicity, urban or rural origin or social status"[10]

• The Kafala system keeps migrant workers in Dependency relationships

• Religious minorities experience Systematic exclusion in education, employment and legal affairs

Authoritarian modernization

Saudi Arabia's integration efforts take place from top to bottom without real Social participation. The Vision 2030 describes a "vibrant society"but the expression of political opinion remains strictly controlled.

Contradictions between rhetoric and reality

While the kingdom international interfaith conferences and Preaching tolerance, become Activists systematically persecuted and Religious minorities discriminated against. This Credibility gap limits the effectiveness of integration efforts.

Conclusion: A hybrid system in transition

Saudi Arabia develops a Unique hybrid systemthat Traditional Arab-Islamic conflict resolution mechanisms with modern state institutions connects. The Vision 2030 functions as a comprehensive framework for social integration, but also shows the The limits of authoritarian modernization on.

Positive developments include:

• Dramatic progress in the integration of women

• Innovative digital arbitration systems

• Labor market reforms for expatriates

• Preservation and modernization of traditional reconciliation mechanisms

Structural challenges remain in place:

• Systematic discrimination against religious and ethnic minorities

• Authoritarian control of social discourse

• Incomplete integration of different population groups

Saudi Arabia shows that authoritarian systems can certainly promote social integrationbut only in the areas that are serve strategic goals. The Combination of traditional values and modern institutions creates a functioning, albeit incomplete, system of conflict management and social integration.

The kingdom is in a Continuous renegotiation between Tradition and modernity, between Unity and diversity. This "silent renegotiation" is shaping almost every aspect of daily life and will have a major impact on the future of Saudi Arabian society[19].

Supplementary assessment from a Gradido perspective

Integration & conflict management: between tradition and modernity

1. hybrid model of tradition and state

• Saudi Arabia combines deeply rooted Arab-Islamic mechanisms (Sulh, Musalaha, Wasata, Majlis) with modern institutions such as the "King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue" and digital tools such as "Taradhi".

• Consensus, dignity and social cohesion are core values, but are increasingly supported and formalized by digital and legal structures.

2. integration of social groups

• Strains: A separate, often conflict-laden cosmos, which is increasingly being bundled by nationwide initiatives (such as the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival) in the sense of the state's large-scale "national unity" project.

• Women: Impressive progress in labor force participation, management positions and targeted support (childcare, transportation), but still underrepresentation in some economic sectors and existing structural barriers.

• Expatriates: 41.5% of the population are foreigners - with new labor market reforms and "green cards", but prospects of staying remain limited; integration remains mostly functional and not social.

• Youth: 70 % under 30! They are drivers of change, combine tradition with modernity, shape new social realities (including via social media), but at the same time face challenges such as youth unemployment.

• Minorities: Exchange and symbolic initiatives (KAICIID, Interfaith Conferences) meet the reality of systematic discrimination (e.g. Shiites, migrant workers).

3. conflict management:

• Digitalization and mediation accelerate reconciliation processes (e.g. via "Taradhi").

• Institutions such as the public prosecutor's office, social services and family counseling centers use elements of classical reconciliation and modern professional practice.

Challenges & limits

• Systemic discrimination (by origin, religion, gender) remains a reality, and real social participation is strictly limited.

• Integration usually takes place top-downcontrolled by the state, rather than through genuine social participation or free discourse.

• Contradictions between official tolerance rhetoric and everyday life: Interfaith dialog often remains symbolic, while human rights activists, for example, continue to be persecuted.

Opportunities and impetus for Gradido

• Gentle bridge building: Gradido can gently develop existing balance mechanisms by focusing on justice, honoring every voice and reconciliation between social groups.

• Spaces for real participation: Initiatives that strengthen voice-hearing, the promotion of empathy and community (across generations, religions, cultures) can be a valuable addition.

• Social balance and justice: The Gradido principle of double value creation (also for the common good and the environment) helps to compensate for real justice gaps and social imbalances - especially for disadvantaged groups.

• Creating new dialog spaces: Digital tools and participative innovation workshops can promote social creativity, gently open up old patterns and accompany change processes with heart and appreciation.