The collapse of numerous Arab states and the emergence of ISIS have fuelled a sense of urgency within the GCC to insulate their countries from the mayhem around it. Gulf citizens, thus, may stomach the possibility of income taxes—albeit begrudgingly—if it means their livelihoods are protected. The recent spate of ISIS-claimed terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait has elevated fear among GCC citizens for the stability of their home countries. Given this state of heightened insecurity, the introduction of taxes is not only likely, but may even be done without the need for the dreaded further expansion of democratic participation among the citizenry.
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