Publication

This publication examines Great Britain's protection of Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and the Trucial States (United Arab Emirates) during the era of British hegemony in the region. It argues that Britain's record in Eastern Arabia was better than its record elsewhere in the Middle East. It begins with an overview of regional insecurity before examining why Great Britain came to the region. The author outlines the (dis)advantages of this for the local rulers before explaining the legal status of the shaikhdoms. He then demonstrates how Britain influenced the states' defense arrangements, and concludes with a reflection on Britain's legacy in the region.