its  not all to do with racism.one of the reasons often mentioned is the higher cost of living in the west.hence it is difficult to attract good western talent unless they are suitably compensated.

i have an american colleague who gets  an extra 3000riyal as a kind of social allowance. 

i dont grudge her that and since having visited the usa last year i feel she ought to get more.

do it right - the first time!