Publication

In the 21st century, leadership of the Arab world has shifted decisively from the ancient capitals of Cairo, Damascus and Baghdad to the Gulf. Hydrocarbon revenues have not only facilitated the exercise of conventional political leverage through the funding of other Arab governments, but the GCC countries have also invested heavily in influencing Islamic movements, confirming the Arabian peninsula as both the political and spiritual centre of the region. Arab leaders have also spoken admiringly of the Gulf’s recent management of its hydrocarbon revenues in contrast with other countries in the region.