Ruling Families

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The Son Also Rises: The One-Year Anniversary of Mohammed bin Zayed’s Presidency

Balancing family and state-federal dynamics while staying in line with regional tendencies on succession, Mohammed bin Zayed names his son Khaled crown prince.

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The Saudi “Founding Day” and the Death of Wahhabism

Saudi Arabia’s “Founding Day” signifies a radical break with the Wahhabi political influence that had legitimized the Saudi political projects since 1744.

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Popular Omani Novel Joins Others Exploring Gulf States’ Shift to Modernity

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.

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The Legacy of Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah: Statesman, Mediator, and Father of Modern Kuwait

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.

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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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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.

The U.S. Prevented War, Yet Iran’s Strategic Decision-Making Process Remains Flawed

The crisis between Iran and Israel may be contained for now, but the breakdown in decision making that led to the end of Iran’s “strategic patience” carries risks going forward.

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Through 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.

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