Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates: Foreign Policy and Strategic Alliances in an Uncertain World

(Hardback)

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The year 1973 is usually considered the great equaliser among major oil producers.

But the 'Visions' strategies of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, a so-called middle power and small state in the Middle East regional system, point to broadening economic relations as a great enhancer of economic power. This book explores the impact of regime type and leadership style on the two countries' foreign policies. It reveals how autonomy and influence, threat perception and alliance patterns are folded into the complex and personal riyal politik and economic statecraft that sit at the core of their international relations.

Reviews

Though Saudi Arabia and the UAE are arguably now the most influential Arab states, their foreign policies and policymaking structures remain rather enigmatic. Conducting the most detailed investigation to date, Mason provides us with a substantive, well-researched analysis. Essential reading.
Christopher M. Davidson, author of From Sheikhs to Sultanism: Statecraft and Authority in Saudi Arabia and the UAE

This is an engaging account of the shift in foreign policy and strategic thinking in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It places national imperatives at the heart of decision making and engagement with foreign powers. Mason bases his analysis on rich empirical data and offers new insights into foreign policy thinking on the United States and China against the backdrop of tension with Iran and expanding export markets in Asia. This book opens new avenues to explore and is a must read.
Shahram Akbarzadeh, Research Professor of Middle East and Central Asian Politics, Deakin University

Robert Mason has done yeoman work in chronicling and analysing in great detail the twists and turns of contemporary Saudi and Emirati foreign policy. The book is an indispensable source for understanding the international politics of the Middle East.
F. Gregory Gause III, Professor, John H. Lindsey '44 Chair and Head of the International Affairs Department, Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University

Author Bio

Robert Mason is a Non-Resident Fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington