United Arab Emirates
Intro
Anchored by Abu Dhabi’s fiscal base and Dubai’s commercial dynamism, the UAE positions itself as a post-hydrocarbon financial power. Its foreign policy blends assertive autonomy with global branding through soft power, infrastructure investment, and interfaith diplomacy.
Background
Formed in 1971 as a federation of seven emirates, the UAE transformed within two generations through hydrocarbon wealth and urbanization. State-led investment in logistics, finance, and tourism created a diversified economy. Leadership succession under Mohammed bin Zayed consolidated a technocratic, centralized model emphasizing stability and innovation.
History
- 1971: Federation established; independence from Britain – 1980s-1990s: Rapid infrastructure expansion – 2000s: Dubai’s rise as global logistics hub – 2010s: Military interventions in Yemen and Libya; diplomatic expansion – 2020s: Abraham Accords, BRICS membership, AI and green-energy leadership
Present Day
In 2025, the UAE leads Gulf decarbonization projects, mediates in regional conflicts, and continues to expand its space, defense, and AI industries. Dubai retains global aviation and finance dominance.
Future Outlook
The UAE’s strategic trajectory focuses on climate neutrality, AI leadership, and regional mediation. Economic diversification and sovereign wealth investments sustain resilience amid oil volatility. Dubai Expo 2020 legacy and green hydrogen partnerships reinforce its global soft-power standing.
Map
Articles
Iran’s Retaliation in Cold War Mode
How Tehran could turn confrontation in the Gulf into a strategic cost trap.
Event Timeline
Israeli Strikes in Tehran Killing Larijani
On the night of 16-17 March 2026, Israeli airstrikes in the Tehran area killed Ali Larijani (Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council and de facto leader) and Gholamreza Soleimani (commander of Iran’s internal Basij militia).
Nationalisation of Iranian Oil and the Mossadegh Crisis
From 1951 to 1953, Iran nationalized its oil industry under Prime Minister Mossadegh, leading to an international crisis and the eventual 1953 coup.
Iran Hostage Crisis
In 1979, Iranian students seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, holding 52 Americans hostage for 444 days and transforming U.S.-Iran relations.
Iranian Revolution
In 1979, a mass movement removed the Pahlavi monarchy and established the Islamic Republic, redefining Iran’s political and ideological system.
Reform Movement and the Khatami Presidency
From 1997 to 2005, Iran experienced a reform era focused on civic openness, political participation, and institutional debate.
Collapse of the Safavid Order and Afghan Conquest of Isfahan
In 1722, Afghan forces from Kandahar captured Isfahan, ending effective Safavid rule and opening a prolonged phase of political fragmentation across Iran.
