Policy Analysis

Oil resources have wrought unprecedented developments in Gulf society, but these successes have been tainted by what is known as the “oil curse.” The past several years have given the Gulf an opportunity to change this trajectory.

While a military alliance with U.S. backing seems natural, necessary, and justified, the path to the establishment of a Middle Eastern NATO is barred by regional differences.

A recent poll indicates that though more Gulfis now disapprove of the Abraham Accords, undertones of warming sentiments towards allowing contacts with Israelis are also present.

Russian narratives are increasingly suffusing Arabic social media depictions of the war in Ukraine.

A year after Joe Biden’s inauguration, expectations for a shift in America's Middle East policy have not materialized. Gulf monarchies are warily looking on as Washington continues to debate the U.S. role in the region.

Qataris voice favorable views toward rapprochement with Turkey and see the United States, China, and Russia as equally valuable partners.

As great powers match in perceived importance, the Saudi public remains hostile to Iran while being less so towards Israel or Turkey.

With rivers and lakes drying and record breaking droughts, there is a dire need for greater regional cooperation on water issues.

When polled, Emiratis demonstrate support for a renewed nuclear agreement with Iran, and opposition towards Islamist groups.

Understanding ideological shifts, regional geopolitics and the origins of the Turkey-UAE rift is critical to assessing the likely outcomes of recent diplomatic engagements between the two countries.

Respondents in local surveys are increasingly expressing pragmatic views on Israeli normalization, Iranian nuclear issues, religious moderation, and other hot topics.

Without an exerted international peace effort, the siege on Marib could destroy the possibility of a unified Yemen.

Internal competition and unnecessary megaprojects are drawing attention away from the human capital and technology expertise needed for the UAE to transition away from oil.

The United States should capitalize on closer ties between its regional allies to combat Iranian expansionism, with a special focus on Syria.

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 repeats old mistakes of relying heavily on new megaprojects and ignoring regional advantages in research and education.

As India seeks to grow in its self-reliance, developing more balanced relations with the Gulf will strengthen ties while helping to balance against Chinese influence in the region.

Arab and Mediterranean countries with common interests are creating new shared tools that can be used to combat Turkish and Iranian influence in their regions.

A federalist system is the only viable option for a new government in Yemen.

Qatar must adequately manage its ties to the Brotherhood if it wants to ensure sustainable Gulf ties.

Qatar could serve as a valuable intermediary between Saudi Arabia and a Democratic White House.