Exploring Oman’s History, Culture, and Cuisine: A Conversation With Chef Dina Macki
On March 26, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the history of Omani cuisine.
Kristin Smith Diwan
Senior Resident Scholar, AGSIW
Kristin Smith Diwan is a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington. Her current projects concern generational change, nationalism, and the evolution of Islamism in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Her analysis of Gulf affairs has appeared in many publications, among them Foreign Affairs, Financial Times, and The Washington Post.
Diwan was previously an assistant professor at the American University School of International Service and has held visiting scholar positions at the George Washington University and Georgetown University. From 2013-14 she served as a visiting senior fellow at the Atlantic Council where she published on youth movements and participated in the Strategic Dialogue for a New US-Gulf Partnership.
Diwan received her PhD from Harvard University and holds an MA from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. She completed her undergraduate degree at Baylor University in Texas, her home state.
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AGSIW Outlook 2025: Gulf States at the Nexus of a Shifting World Order
AGSIW experts explain the regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
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Trump's Inauguration and America’s Nationalist Realignment
Underlying dynamics in U.S. society and the global political economy suggest Trump’s new nationalist coalition may endure with implications for Gulf partners.
Outlook 2025: What Will the New Year Bring for the Gulf Region and U.S.-Gulf Relations?
On January 23, AGSIW hosted a discussion on what regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
Book Talk: The Economy of Saudi Arabia in the 21st Century: Prospects and Realities
On January 8, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Saudi Arabia's efforts to transform its economy.
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Assad’s Fall Prompts Initial Gulf Unity but Differences and Concerns Are Emerging
Gulf states met the Syrian regime’s fall with unity and pragmatism. But already differences are emerging in response to the political transition and the possibility of chaos, extremism, and a feeble state unable to preserve its territorial integrity.
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Saudi Arabia on Global Stage for 2034 World Cup
Hosting the World Cup will be a huge opportunity for Saudi Arabia, supporting Vision 2030 reforms. While preparations for the tournament will be costly, they will boost economic growth and could spur further social change.
How Will Gulf Partners Seek to Manage Relations With Trump 2.0?
On December 10, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the future U.S.-Gulf relations under the incoming Trump administration.
Book Talk: The Development of An Art History in the UAE
On December 3, AGSIW hosted a discussion on contemporary art in the United Arab Emirates.
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Gulf Popular Interest in U.S. Elections Is Not What It Used To Be
Anger and disillusionment over the Gaza war and rising confidence in their own national direction means Gulf publics are not as invested in U.S. political outcomes.
Book Talk: Gulf Women’s Lives: Voice, Space, Place
On October 18, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the lives of Gulf women, exploring how Gulf women negotiate spaces through their writing and focusing on women’s narratives.
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Saudi National Day Evolves
Saudi Arabia's 94th National Day reflected a new seriousness in the kingdom, alongside the celebrations.
Book Talk: Saudi Youth: Policies and Practices
On October 2, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Saudi youth policy development.
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With New Crown Prince Kuwait Bucks Gulf Succession Trends
The emir’s naming of Sabah al-Khaled al-Sabah – a noncontroversial politician and an experienced diplomat – as crown prince may help traverse Kuwait’s fissures, but there is still a long road ahead.
Virtual Roundtable on Kuwait
On May 22, AGSIW hosted a roundtable on developments in Kuwait.
What Do the Latest Parliamentary Elections Mean for Democratic Politics in Kuwait?
On April 15, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Kuwait's April 4 parliamentary elections.
The Fluid Gulf: Framing Multicultural Heritage Through Film
On April 11, AGSIW and the Middle East Institute co-hosted a discussion on film in the Gulf.
Special Ramadan Screening of Saudi Film “Mandoob”
On April 7, AGSIW and the National Museum of Asian Art co-hosted a screening of the Saudi hit film "Mandoob."
AGSIW x Culture Summit: Channeling the Uncanny in Counter-Futurisms
On March 4, AGSIW convened a session on Gulf Futurism during Culture Summit Abu Dhabi.
Book Launch: Art in Saudi Arabia: A New Creative Economy?
On January 19, AGSIW hosted a discussion on art in Saudi Arabia.
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AGSIW Outlook 2024: Gulf Transformations Amid Uncertainty
AGSIW experts explain the regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
2024 Outlook
On January 9, AGSIW hosted a virtual roundtable with its leadership and scholars as they looked ahead and assessed trends likely to shape the Gulf region and U.S. foreign policy during the coming year.
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Kuwait's New Emir: A Frank Speech Signals a Sharp Change in Direction
Kuwait's new emir, Meshal al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah, announces an end to the current populist terms of engagement with the Parliament, which seems to suggest a forceful corrective – and perhaps more domestic strife – to come.
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Saudi Arabia Storms the World of Football
Saudi Arabia's successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup and aggressive recruitment of top players from elite football clubs across Europe mark another audacious play for state-financed entry into global sports.
How Is the Israel-Hamas Conflict Affecting Gulf Arab States and Their Strategic Calculations?
On November 7, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Gulf responses to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Book Talk – Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates: Foreign Policy and Strategic Alliances in an Uncertain World
On October 17, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the foreign policies of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Will the Israel-Hamas Conflict Spell the End of Regional Reconciliation?
On October 12, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the Israel-Hamas conflict.
With the Land: Environment and Nature in Contemporary Gulf Art
AGSIW and Hunna Art will co-host a discussion exploring environment and art.
New date to be announced.
AGSIW Student Open House and Reception
On September 27, AGSIW hosted a student open house and reception, featuring Emirati and Colombian American visual artist Sara Ahli.
BRICS+: Seeking an Alternative World Order?
On September 26, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the potential expansion of BRICS.
A Conversation on Saudi Arabia With F. Gregory Gause, III
On September 14, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Saudi Arabia's recent diplomatic maneuvers.
Book Talk – The Struggle for Supremacy in the Middle East
On July 6, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the historical rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Will Kuwait’s Upcoming Elections Help Resolve Its Political Gridlock?
On May 31, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Kuwait's upcoming parliamentary elections.
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New Elections and Frustration Within Kuwait's Elite
Amid an ongoing political standoff and governing malaise, some within Kuwait's elite have challenged the Al Sabah family-led government.
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AGSIW Outlook 2023: Rapprochement, Competition, and Tensions
AGSIW experts explain the regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
Book Talk – The Huthi Movement in Yemen: Ideology, Ambition, and Security in the Arab Gulf
On January 24, AGSIW hosted a discussion with Bernard Haykel and Joshua Rogers on this new book and the Houthi movement in Yemen.
2023 Outlook
AGSIW hosted a virtual private roundtable with its leadership and scholars as they looked ahead and assessed trends likely to shape the Gulf region and U.S. foreign policy during the coming year.
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Saudi Arabia's New Nationalist Foreign Policy
A more self-assertive Saudi Arabia is taking steps to amplify its role on the global stage, at times in defiance of its U.S. partner. What does this mean for global energy markets and the future of U.S.-Saudi relations?
Petro Diplomacy 2022: Gulf Countries on the Front Line of Energy Security
On October 20 and 21, AGSIW convened its eighth annual Petro Diplomacy conference.
Making Sense of Kuwait's Parliamentary Election Results: Change or Continued Gridlock?
On October 6, AGSIW hosted a discussion examining the results of Kuwait's recent parliamentary elections.
Book Launch: Kinship, State Formation and Governance in the Arab Gulf States
On Thursday July 7, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Scott Weiner's new publication examining tribe-state relations in the Gulf.
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Kuwait's Constitutional Stand
A sit-in by members of Kuwait's National Assembly was a relatively rare example of a successful targeted political protest to achieve limited political aims, but it is unlikely the good feelings of national unity will last.
A New “Founding Day” and the Transformation of Saudi Society
On April 26, AGSIW hosted a discussion examining the establishment of Saudi Arabia's new national narrative.
State and Culture in Saudi Arabia: Understanding the Moment of Transformation
On April 20, AGSIW hosted a workshop examining the question of state and culture in Saudi Arabia.
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Tourism Ambitions Transform Saudi Arabia
The global opening and new embrace of arts and entertainment are indicative of broader trends as the kingdom navigates its "post-oil" future.
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AGSIW Outlook: Trends and Developments That Will Shape the Gulf in 2022
AGSIW experts explain the regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
2022 Outlook
AGSIW's leadership and scholars assessed trends likely to shape the Gulf region and U.S. foreign policy in 2022.
Book Launch – Tribalism and Political Power in the Gulf: State-Building and National Identity in Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE
On December 1, AGSIW hosted a discussion examining the roles that tribes play in popular participation in government and policymaking in the Gulf.
Roundtable With Bernard Haykel
On November 16, AGSIW hosted a discussion with Bernard Haykel on the state of U.S.-Saudi relations and the latest social, political, and economic developments underway in Saudi Arabia.
What to Expect From Qatar's First Legislative Elections
On September 30, AGSIW hosted a discussion ahead of Qatar's first legislative elections.
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Electoral Law Sparks Debate Over Qatari Citizenship and Political Rights
While Qatar’s electoral rules may produce a more malleable legislative body, they pose the risk of upending the national unity forged over the course of Qatar’s dispute with its neighboring states.
Sectarian Identities and the Rise of Nationalism in the Middle East
On June 9, AGSIW and SEPAD hosted a discussion examining sectarianism and nationalism in the Middle East.
The Gulf Cooperation Council at 40
On May 27, AGSIW hosted a discussion examining the Gulf Cooperation Council's impact on its member states, the Gulf, and international relations, 40 years after its founding.
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Abraham Accords Face Early Test
Israeli expansionism in East Jerusalem and the attack on Al-Aqsa Mosque prompt sharp condemnation and popular support for Palestinians from Gulf signatories to the Abraham Accords.
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Keep the Faith: Mohammed bin Salman’s Message to Saudis
On April 27, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sat down for a television interview five years after the announcement of Vision 2030.
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All the Kings’ Sons
Recent leadership transitions in the Gulf monarchies are crystallizing a trend toward direct lineage and away from fraternal succession, consolidating decision making and centralizing state power.
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U.S.-Saudi Relations: How To Work With, and Rein In, Mohammed bin Salman
Kristin Smith Diwan sat down with F. Gregory Gause III to discuss his March 30 piece for Foreign Affairs, “The United States Is the Last Check on MBS’s Power.”
Developments in Qatar and Kuwait
On April 6, AGSIW hosted a dial-in briefing on recent developments in Qatar and Kuwait.
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The Khashoggi Case in Biden’s Strategy and U.S. Policy Direction
The Biden administration preserves space for statecraft, yet honors Khashoggi’s memory by punishing activity against Saudi dissidents abroad.
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Why the Saudis Ended the Dispute With Qatar
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s youth ambitions are behind the entry – and exit – from the Qatar standoff.
2021 Outlook
AGSIW hosted a virtual private roundtable with its leadership and scholars as they looked ahead to assess trends likely to shape the Gulf region during the coming year.
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AGSIW Outlook 2021
AGSIW experts explain what regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
Oman One Year On
On January 12, AGSIW hosted a panel analyzing the challenges facing, and the strategic responses of, Oman's new sultan.
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Kuwaitis Vote for Change
Kuwait’s elections resulted in a nearly two-thirds turnover in the National Assembly. Still any reform program hinges on the selection of the leadership of Parliament and new government and their ability to forge a common national agenda.
Saudi Arabia and the G-20
AGSIW hosted a virtual private roundtable to discuss Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy and attract investments, its presidency of the G-20, recommendations of the T20 group of think tanks, and the outcomes of this year’s G-20 meeting.
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Death of Bahrain’s Prime Minister Promotes Reformer, But Perhaps Not Reforms
The death of the traditional and uncompromising Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa clears the way for the reformist crown prince to head the government. Still, state and financial security will continue to top Bahrain’s priorities.
Succession in Kuwait
The recent health issues of Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah have revived concerns about succession in Kuwait.
Kuwait After Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah
On October 7, AGSIW hosted a virtual panel discussion on the future of Kuwait's leadership.
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Kuwait’s Patient Statesman
The death of Kuwait’s emir, Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah, marks the passage of a seasoned diplomat, cunning politician, and valued humanitarian. Will his successor preserve Kuwait’s democratic political culture and independent foreign policy?
The Future of U.S.-Saudi Relations
On August 27, AGSIW hosted a virtual roundtable on the future of U.S.-Saudi relations.
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Public Debate Over the Abraham Accords Reflects Range of Views on Normalization in the Gulf
While political narratives on Israel are shifting under the influence of some determined state leaders, resistance to normalization remains across Gulf societies.
After the Pandemic: The Future of Higher Education in the Gulf
On August 20, AGSIW hosted a virtual panel discussion examining the role of higher education in the development of Gulf Arab states and how the coronavirus pandemic has affected these institutions.
Key Elements of Saudi Social Transformation Post-Coronavirus
On August 11, AGSIW partnered with the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies to host a virtual panel discussion examining social reform programs in Saudi Arabia.
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Populism on the Rise in Kuwait as Elections Loom
Under the strain of the coronavirus pandemic and the political imperatives of upcoming elections, populism is raging in Kuwait. It colors public discourse high and low, from elite campaigns to root out corruption to grassroot demands to expel guest workers.
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Max Weber in Arabia: Saudi’s Character Enrichment Program
As the Saudi government manages the fallout from collapsing oil revenue, it will be seeking greater contributions from the Saudi public. A little-known program to instill the productive values of entrepreneurship, hard work, and optimism may have found its moment.
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The Big Gamble of Mohammed bin Salman – and Saudi Arabia
Aggressive moves both at home and in global oil markets demonstrate Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s control over decision making, with the Saudi public invested as never before.
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Mark C. Thompson on the Identity of Saudi Male Youth
Kristin Smith Diwan sat down with Mark C. Thompson to discuss his research on the generational shift in attitudes of Saudi men.
Young and Male: Identity and Politics in Saudi Arabia
AGSIW hosted Mark Thompson, professor and author of "Being Young, Male and Saudi: Identity and Politics in a Globalized Kingdom," for a discussion of his work on the generational shift in attitudes of Saudi men.
Oman After Qaboos
AGSIW hosted a private discussion on the future of Oman following the passing of Sultan Qaboos bin Said.
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2020 Outlook: What AGSIW Will Be Tracking This Year
AGSIW experts explain what regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
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Oman’s New Sultan Unlikely to Pursue Qaboos’ Monopoly of Power
Sultan Haitham will need to balance powerful interests while engaging all parties, especially as he tackles economic policy.
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U.S-Iranian Tensions: The Gulf Arab States
Kristin Smith Diwan and Hussein Ibish discuss the role for the Gulf Arab states in de-escalating tensions between Iran and the United States.
2020 Vision: AGSIW Assesses Threats and Opportunities in the Gulf
On January 8, AGSIW hosted a conversation considering the trends likely to shape the Gulf region in 2020.
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Kuwait Shakes Up Its Government amid Charges of Corruption
Kuwait’s government resigns amid charges of embezzlement, as both the Parliament and ruling family prepare for impending elections – and a looming succession.
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Bahrain’s Royal Family Adjusts for the Future
The recent elevation of Bahrain’s young prince, Nasser bin Hamad al-Khalifa, to national security advisor is the latest indication of maneuvers to secure the future hierarchy of the monarchy.
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Saudi Ambition Confronts New Vulnerability
Saudi Vision 2030 champions national pride and a new economy of tourism and technology. But a direct hit on the kingdom’s central oil processing plant at Abqaiq ruthlessly reveals: As yet, the kingdom’s future still depends on allies, and oil.
Cities and Belonging in the Gulf Arab States
On July 24, AGSIW hosted a panel discussion examining the growth of the modern Gulf Arab city.
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The Manama Workshop and the Course of Normalization in the Gulf
The “Peace to Prosperity” workshop in Bahrain may have been less about Palestinian prosperity and more about drawing Arab, especially Gulf, countries into the Middle East peace process – and into deeper normalization with Israel.
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In a Region Beset by Zero-Sum Conflicts, Oman Remains Open to All
Avoiding provocation of international powers and regional neighbors, Oman remains determined to make its connections to all sides a strategic asset.
Kuwait: Between Mediation and Maximum Pressure
AGSIW hosted a conversation examining Kuwait's domestic political landscape and regional relations.
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Saudi Arabia’s New Security State Reflected in Treatment and Trial of Women Activists
The case of the detained women activists in Saudi Arabia illustrates shifting power dynamics in the kingdom as King Salman has centralized control in the hands of the crown prince, complicating an already fraught political environment for intellectuals and activists.
Roundtable Discussion With Nayef Al-Hajraf, Minister of Finance of Kuwait
Nayef Al-Hajraf, minister of finance of Kuwait, discussed the challenges and opportunities in this era of economic reform with a focus on Kuwait Vision 2035.
Change from the Bottom Up: Art, Society, and Southern Saudi Arabia
In this presentation, Sean Foley draws on his extensive research in Asir, Najran, and Jizan to trace the rise of the Saudi contemporary artistic movement while explaining what it tells us about the kingdom’s society in the 21st century.
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The Pope’s Visit and Emirati Soft Power
Pope Francis' historic visit to the UAE, the first by the head of the Roman Catholic Church to the Arabian Peninsula, represents the most high-profile of a series of initiatives positioning the UAE as a champion of interfaith dialogue, moderation, and pluralism.
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Saudi Arabia Reassigns Roles within a More Centralized Monarchy
As Saudi Arabia moves toward more centralized authority over national security and intelligence functions, will these measures serve to check or further empower the crown prince?
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Bahrain’s Carefully Managed Elections Remake Parliament
On November 24 and December 1 Bahrain held elections for the lower house of Parliament and municipal councils. The new members – absent representation by once-influential opposition societies and dominated by political independents and newcomers – will face a strenuous test with austerity measures looming.
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MbS – with an Assist from the King – Shores up Support at Home
In the wake of the Khashoggi affair, Saudi Arabia's King Salman is rallying royals and courting the public on behalf of his embattled son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Will this injection of traditional prestige and patronage reassure MbS’s skeptics at home and abroad?
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The Geoeconomics of Reconstruction in Yemen
The conflict in Yemen has exacted a disastrous toll on the country. This paper considers the outside forces in the conflict, seeking to elucidate who they are, what the nature is of their involvement, and what their converging and conflicting interests mean for reconstruction.
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Mohammed bin Salman’s Media Obsession – and What it Means for Dissent
Control over the media is central to the Saudi crown prince’s transformation program – and to Jamal Khashoggi’s death.
Discussion and Screening: New Currents in Saudi Cinema
Saudi filmmakers Meshal Al Jaser and Ali Al Sumayin joined Kristin Smith Diwan to talk about and screen their work, and discuss how social media and other new technologies are influencing the future of film and media production in the Gulf.
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Mohammed bin Salman’s Short Visit to Kuwait
Kuwait has made the strategic decision to deepen bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia, but navigating this critical relationship will be a challenge for the small emirate.
Understanding Youth and Women’s Employment in Saudi Arabia
Alessandra L. González shared insights from her research on Saudi women’s employment in the kingdom.
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The GCC is Becoming More – and Less – than the Sum of Its Parts
The GCC is becoming more - and less - than the sum of its parts.
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Kuwait: Finding Balance in a Maximalist Gulf
Amid the dramatic changes sweeping the Gulf region, Kuwait’s incremental approach is being sorely tested.
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Saudi Arabia Sets Goals for Football On and Off the Pitch
New Saudi leadership has high hopes for economic and political payoffs tied to a heightened priority on football.
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Internal Political Realignment Targets Saudi Women Activists
On June 24, Saudi women will be allowed to drive for the first time in the kingdom. Yet many of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent women activists are unlikely to be among them.
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Saudi Nationalism Raises Hopes of Greater Shia Inclusion
The Saudi leadership’s public rejection of the Sunni political revival movement known as the Sahwa has been accompanied by signs of an incipient opening to Shia communities.
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Kuwait’s MbS: The Reform Agenda of Nasser Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah
A new Gulf prince has emerged from within the royal court with big plans for his country.
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Let Me Entertain You: Saudi Arabia’s New Enthusiasm for Fun
Social outings with mixed genders, open cinemas, and performing arts represent a dramatic reversal from the past when Saudis pursued their amusements in private or abroad. What explains the government’s new enthusiasm for fun?
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Jerusalem Declaration Unites – and Divides – the Gulf
The decision by Donald J. Trump to formally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel elicited universal condemnation from Gulf Arab states.
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Kuwait Struggles for Unity at Home and in the Region
Kuwait’s relatively open politics and careful balancing of societal constituencies – Sunni and Shia, liberals and Islamists – look anomalous in today’s maximalist Gulf, and increasingly under threat.
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Media, Youth, and the New Saudi Arabia
The stunning arrest of dozens of prominent princes, ministers, and businessmen once thought untouchable, and indications of a broadening campaign against corruption, raise fundamental questions about the future direction of Saudi Arabia.
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End of Saudi Driving Ban Removes Key Roadblock for Women
A key feature of Saudi exceptionalism has fallen: the ban on women driving in the kingdom. This marks the culmination of decades of social change and political activism on the part of a small but growing vanguard of Saudi women.
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Qatar Crisis Stirs Islamic Debates
One of the key aspects of the ongoing Gulf crisis is the attempt to denounce Qatar and its leadership over its support of Islamist activist and jihadist networks
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The New Rules of Monarchy in the Gulf
This summer has seen significant developments in the Arabian Peninsula, from the embargo placed on Qatar by four Arab countries, to the change in succession in Saudi Arabia.
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Mohammed bin Salman is the Future of Saudi Arabia
King Salman has succeeded in consolidating power under his 31-year-old son: Mohammed bin Salman is now crown prince and the future of Saudi Arabia.
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Saudi Leadership and Qatar Media
Three members of the GCC – Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain cut off ties to Qatar in a bold, high-stakes move to alter its behavior.
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A Saudi Course Correction
On April 25 the Saudi government reached the one-year mark since the launch of its ambitious program of governmental reform, Saudi Vision 2030.
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New Generation Royals and Succession Dynamics in the Gulf States
As Gulf monarchies face a generational transition in leadership, new challenges emerge.
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International Institutions and Human Rights Take Back Seat in Tillerson and Mattis Senate Confirmation Hearings
On January 20, Donald J. Trump was sworn in as president of the United States. AGSIW senior resident scholars examine statements made by some of the president’s key Cabinet nominees during their confirmation hearings – and by the president himself – for clues to the new administration’s likely policies on the issues of most pressing interest to the Gulf Arab states.
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Kuwait’s Snap Parliamentary Elections Bring Return of the Opposition
On November 26, Kuwait held parliamentary elections, its fourth in just five years, in a vote that marked the return of the opposition after nearly four years of electoral boycotts.
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Saudi Films Challenge Societal Norms at Home, Open Doors Abroad
As the state toys with a cultural opening at home, it is beginning to embrace the power of the arts to improve the country’s image abroad.
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The Gulf Reacts to the United States’ Election of Donald Trump
The world reacted with surprise to the election of Donald Trump as the 45th U.S.
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Between Tribe and Country: Security Challenges Test Saudi Social Cohesion
On July 4, during the holy month of Ramadan, a suicide bomber approached one of the most important sites of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in the city of Medina.
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JASTA Lights Up Saudi Social Media
Saudi State and Society React to JASTA Saudi Arabia and its fellow Gulf states were quick to react to the passage of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) by the U.S.
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Who Is Sunni?: Chechnya Islamic Conference Opens Window on Intra-Faith Rivalry
In a week filled with news stories on the mounting theological-political spat between Saudi Arabia and Iran, the intra-Sunni geopolitical rivalry is heating up as well.
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Gulf Islamists Praise Erdogan Victory, Prophesy Revival of the Ummah
The Turkish government’s defeat of an attempted military coup last month has captivated Islamists across the Middle East, who found relief, and a bit of redemption, in the popular mobilization against the rebellious officers.
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Bahrain’s New Order
The political news emanating from the tiny island kingdom of Bahrain has come fast and frequent this summer, with a series of actions taken by the courts, Parliament, and security forces effectively reshaping the formal political landscape of the country.
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A Ramadan Talk Show Spurs Religious Debate in Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia embarks on Vision 2030, its comprehensive plan to confront oil dependence and meet the challenges of economic diversification and social change, there are signs that the leadership is opening space for much-needed religious debate.
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Parliamentary Boycotts in Kuwait and Bahrain Cost Opposition
Citizens of the Gulf’s leading parliamentary monarchies have access to a pressure point that other Gulf citizens do not: If the ruling family-led executive is refusing reforms or taking unilateral political actions, they may withhold their participation in elections.
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National Identity and National Projects in the Arab Gulf States
In recent years, Gulf states have undertaken steps to promote national identity and inculcate a stronger sense of national belonging that ties citizens to the state and its leadership.
The End of the U.S.-Saudi Special Relationship?
The United States' relationship with Saudi Arabia has been a cornerstone of U.S. policy in the Middle East for decades.
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Youth Appeal of Saudi Vision 2030
This post is part of an AGSIW series on Saudi Vision 2030, a sweeping set of programs and reforms adopted by the Saudi government to be implemented by 2030.
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Waiting Out Obama
It is no secret that the Saudi and wider Gulf leadership are not fans of U.S. President Barack Obama. Complaints range from the personal – that he hasn’t built strong ties to Gulf monarchs – to the strategic – that he has neither backed his Gulf partners nor backed up his own promises, most notably in Syria.
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Bahrain Faces Austerity, Without Protest
As the Gulf states enter a new era of lower oil prices, Bahrain faces the most difficult test.
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Gulf States Struggle to Achieve Goals in Yemen's War
March 26 will mark one year since the Saudi-led coalition began launching airstrikes in Yemen at the invitation of the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.
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The ‘Third Image’ in Islamist Politics
Since at least the 1990s, Islamists have felt the pull of domestic politics as semi-authoritarian states opened up room for Islamist parties or proto-parties in national parliaments and structured national dialogues.
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Between Popular Representation and the State: The Politics of Municipal Council Elections in the GCC
Municipal councils are among the earliest civil institutions in the Gulf region.
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UAE Elections: A Managed Opening that Unites the Federation
In the beginning of October, the United Arab Emirates held elections for its Federal National Council.
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Soldiers and the Nation
On September 4, Emirati and other Gulf nationals were met by the news that 60 soldiers from the Saudi-led coalition intervening in Yemen had been killed in a single missile strike launched by Houthi rebels.
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The (Limited) Rehabilitation of the Muslim Brotherhood in the Gulf
Faced with the dual challenge of confronting an Iran emerging from under the shadow of international sanctions and an “Islamic state” solidifying on their borders, several Gulf states are reconciling their relations with the Muslim Brotherhood and other activist Sunni Islamist movements.
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From Parliament to Prison: Leading Gulf Opposition Politicians Sentenced
While international attention last week turned to the confirmation of the death penalty for former Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi, some high profile convictions were handed down in the Arab Gulf states as well.