The Gulf Momentum in Flux

The chapter analyzes the geopolitical and economic transformation the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are undergoing (The GCC consists of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain.). In light of substantial domestic and geostrategic shifts, the Gulf monarchies need to position themselves in a multipolar world in order to preserve their political legitimacy and their economic stability. Hence, such shifts also challenge the traditional character of the Gulf rentier economies and have resulted in new political approaches in terms of socioeconomic liberalization, identity construction, and energy transition. Against this backdrop, the GCC states are promoting socioeconomic diversification, multi-alignment in global affairs and regional reconciliation on different levels.