Abstract

The exact measurement and evaluation of indicators of period fertility in a multiracial society could help explain disparities. The aim of this paper is to develop a methodological and analytical attempt to systematically analyse period fertility and discuss differentials in its levels and patterns between domestic and expatriate women in Saudi Arabia as far as available data allow. The data used were obtained from official sources published by the General Authority for Statistics in the Household Health Survey 2018, and then the quantitative calculation was used to calculate fertility indicators. Estimated period fertility indicators started from the simplest rates to the more complex ones, with adequate illustration of the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. The purpose was to establish fertility differentials and historical patterns. The paper consistently shows that the fertility of expatriates in Saudi Arabia is lower than the fertility of Saudi domestic women; however, the reason for this disparity is not established, as the sufficient influence of contraceptive practices has not been confirmed. It is also revealed that the fertility transition that has been taking place since the early eighties will continue, but it will result in precautions in the future.