How did the discovery of oil impact Saudi Arabian society?

The discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia significantly transformed the economy and ushered in rapid modernization throughout the country. Prior to the discovery of oil, Saudi Arabia was primarily an agricultural and pastoral society with limited economic infrastructure. However, the subsequent influx of wealth from oil exports drastically changed this landscape.

The oil industry became the backbone of the Saudi economy, leading to substantial investments in infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and schools. This economic boom allowed the government to implement various modernization initiatives, improving living standards across the nation. Additionally, the financial resources gained from oil exports facilitated advancements in technology, education, and healthcare, fundamentally altering the social fabric of Saudi society.

Overall, the impact of oil discovery was profound, as it not only provided economic prosperity but also enabled the Kingdom to modernize rapidly in many aspects of life, including social services, urban development, and education.