Elnagi M. Hamid College of Arts, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia.
Email: eadam@kfu.edu.sa
Dirar E. E. Ahmed College of Business and Economics, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia.
Email: de.ahmed@qu.edu.sa

Abstract:

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are considered drivers and engines for economic growth in almost all economies. In addition, SMEs have played a critical role in the field of sustainability. It is therefore crucial to discuss opportunities that SMEs provide in achieving sustainability. Therefore, the study aimed to test the role of SMEs in sustainability. For this purpose, data was collected from 100 owners of SMEs using a survey questionnaire from the Al-Ahsa region in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to investigate the various opportunities provided by SMEs in sustainability. Descriptive results show that SMEs play an integral role in the development of three sustainability practices namely environmental, social and governance perspectives in Saudi Arabia. The results academically imply that SMEs in Saudi Arabia becomes a key driver of sustainable development through promoting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices which is highlighting their strategic role in advancing sustainability structures. The results of the study will be significant to practitioners and policymakers, the SME sector, SME stakeholders, and other researchers in the field. The study also recommended taking strategies and policies for SMEs in KSA with specific reference to Al-Ahsa region could increase the development of economic and competitive advantage in the global village.

Keywords:Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), development, Sustainability, Preserving the Environment.