Foreign aid of Gulf States: continuity and change

Abstract

This volume focuses on two primary objectives: to understand the transformations in Gulf States’ foreign aid (GSFA) following 9/11 and the 2011 Arab Uprisings, and to analyse the enduring traits, evolving characteristics, allocation and motivations behind GSFA. The volume delves into how the Gulf States – Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar – have shifted from a solidarity-based aid model to one strategically aligned with political and military interests, particularly in regions like Yemen, Libya and Syria. The key findings highlight the Gulf States’ growing emphasis on transparency, alignment with global governance norms, and increased humanitarian assistance. However, the continued preference for bilateral over multilateral aid raises concerns about transparency and the long-term effectiveness of aid. Politicisation of foreign aid, especially post-2011, underscores how Gulf donors use aid to reinforce geopolitical influence and support military objectives. The volume proposes a future research agenda focusing on the effectiveness of the Gulf States’ rebranding efforts, the implications of intertwining aid with military interests, the shift towards economic diversification in aid allocation, and how evolving regional dynamics, such as Saudi–Iran relations and the Abraham Accords, could shape future aid strategies.

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