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.
Balancing family and state-federal dynamics while staying in line with regional tendencies on succession, Mohammed bin Zayed names his son Khaled crown prince.
Saudi Arabia’s “Founding Day” signifies a radical break with the Wahhabi political influence that had legitimized the Saudi political projects since 1744.
In the year that saw the passing of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, an award-winning Omani novel catches fire in book clubs as it explores the tensions and hopes beneath the surface of the extraordinary changes that the sultan brought to the country.
On September 29, Kuwait announced the passing of Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah. Serving as foreign minister, prime minister, and, finally, emir, Sabah al-Ahmed played a defining role as a humanitarian and mediator, but he will be remembered most by his people as the father of modern Kuwait.
Kuwait’s government resigns amid charges of embezzlement, as both the Parliament and ruling family prepare for impending elections – and a looming succession.
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.
Control over the media is central to the Saudi crown prince’s transformation program – and to Jamal Khashoggi’s death.
As President-elect Trump returns to the White House, he will find a transformed Gulf region, brimming with confidence and initiative; the best way to tap this energy is to consult the region and take on board the regional perspectives.
Learn MoreThrough its careful examination of the forces shaping the evolution of Gulf societies and the new generation of emerging leaders, AGSIW facilitates a richer understanding of the role the countries in this key geostrategic region can be expected to play in the 21st century.
Learn More