Oral Histories of Social, Cultural, and Environmental Changes in Saudi Arabia Before and After Saudi Aramco.

This article examines the profound influence of Saudi Aramco, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's national oil company, on the country's social, cultural, economic, and environmental transformation since the discovery of oil in 1938. Using oral histories collected by female university students in the Eastern Province, the study highlights how Saudi Aramco catalyzed a shift from traditional Bedouin and rural livelihoods toward urbanization, modern education, and new employment opportunities, including increased female participation in the workforce. While many interviewees credited Aramco with improving infrastructure, healthcare, and economic prospects, they also noted challenges such as environmental degradation, loss of traditional lifestyles, and social changes affecting community cohesion. The article underscores Saudi Aramco's central role in reshaping Saudi society over the past eight decades, reflecting both positive developments and complex cultural adjustments.