Arab absolute monarchies continue to enjoy enormous power due to the rentier tradition. Citizens rely on monarchies as their benefactors. While monarchies are frequently challenged on religious and tribal grounds, the unsustainability of the rentier system imposes the greatest pressure for governments to reform. Recent events demonstrate that Arab citizens want more accountable governments, despite generous welfare packages that their governments provide. While dismantling the rentier system is unlikely to create “democracy” as defined by the West, it will allow citizens to acquire ownership rights, gain a sense of pride in working, create more employment opportunities, and possibly weaken the class divide. Reform is necessary, if Arab monarchies and economies are to emerge triumphant at the end of the oil era.